by Bentley Bentayga Update: From Electric to Hybrid
After years of promises about a large-scale electric offensive, Bentley has abruptly changed its plans. While the Barnato model is still expected, a number of other future electric cars have been canceled.
This, according to reports, also applies to the fully electric successor to the popular Bentayga crossover. Such a model could have competed with the future all-electric Rolls-Royce SUV, but that battle will now not take place.
However, Bentley is not abandoning the Bentayga altogether. On the contrary, it is reported that the second-generation model will appear in 2028, but with a hybrid powertrain.
New Platform and Powertrains
According to Autocar, the model was initially supposed to be based on the Scalable Systems Platform architecture. However, due to delays with this platform, the company had to look for other solutions, as the current Bentayga has already passed the ten-year mark.
The new model will be built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), which will also underpin the new Audi Q7 and Q9, as well as the ICE-powered Porsche Cayenne. Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser stated that the updated Bentayga will be offered primarily with a hybrid powertrain.
However, traditional gasoline engines will also be available in some markets and certain trim levels. This most likely means that the familiar twin-turbo V8 will remain for the US market, as this engine is popular there.
Positioning and the Future of the Family
The second-generation Bentayga will occupy a position above the future electric Barnato and is expected to receive a version with a longer wheelbase. The model will also feature modern technologies and more advanced driver assistance systems.
Walliser also hinted that the Flying Spur and Continental families will also transition to the PPC platform in time. The publication believes this will happen closer to the end of this decade, as the current models in these lineups are still quite new.
Bentley’s change of course reflects a general trend in the automotive industry, where many manufacturers are adjusting their electric ambitions due to various market factors and consumer demands. The transition of the Bentayga to hybrid technology based on the proven group platform allows the company to offer customers a modern product without waiting for new architectures to be ready, while simultaneously meeting the demand for powerful traditional engines in key regions. This step may prove to be strategically successful for maintaining its position in the luxury SUV market in the coming years.
