Bentley has begun testing prototypes of its first electric vehicle ahead of its official debut next year. Labeled by the company as an urban SUV, the model is built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which also underpins the Porsche Macan, Audi Q6 E-tron, and the upcoming electric Porsche Cayenne.
The unnamed model will be Bentley’s shortest SUV yet, measuring under five meters in length and positioned below the Bentayga in the lineup. The official unveiling is expected by mid-2026, with customer deliveries set to begin in the second quarter of 2027.
In July, Bentley unveiled the electric EXP 15 concept. While the concept isn’t a direct preview of the brand’s first electric vehicle, Bentley noted that it offers some design cues for the upcoming SUV. The prototype resembles the Bentayga SUV but features a more compact overall footprint. Since its launch in late 2015, the Bentayga has become Bentley’s best-selling model in both the U.S. and globally.
Bentley has indicated that its upcoming EV will measure under 16.4 feet in length to improve parking convenience. The model is expected to offer long-range capability, targeting up to 373 miles, and support rapid charging.
The prototype showcases Bentley’s latest lighting design, similar to updates seen on refreshed models like the Continental GT and Continental GT Speed. Once launched, it will join the Bentayga, Continental GT (coupe and convertible), and Flying Spur sedan as the brand’s fourth model line.
As reported by Autocar, Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser confirmed that the company remains committed to introducing a new plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle annually starting in 2026, beginning with the urban SUV. He also emphasized that Bentley will maintain a balanced mix of powertrains to accommodate the slower growth in demand for premium electric vehicles in the near future.
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