As the carmaker prepares to launch its first electric models, Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser believes electric cars are on the way.
The auto industry is now reaching the end of the first phase of EV development, Walliser said in a recent interview with Autocar. The second phase, which Walliser expects to begin around 2027, will be something of a technological catch-up pattern as automakers look to grow. EV adoption while waiting for new battery technology.
Bentley Continental GT Speed in Gravity Gray
“In the second phase, you're going to get bigger batteries, longer range, and greater usability,” Walliser said. “Some will say their batteries are too big, but their long range will help customers switch and eliminate their range concerns.”
The third phase, which Walliser predicts will begin around 2035, will see further improvements in battery chemistries and maturity of charging infrastructureallowing for smaller battery packs and reduced vehicle weight. Perhaps the conditions will be right for Bentley to finally commit to EVs for the long term.
Bentley Continental GT Speed in Gravity Gray
In 2020, Bentley laid out plans to have all plug-in hybrids in the lineup by 2026 and all electrics by 2030. And in 2022, the automaker said its first EV would arrive in 2025. After the change of plans, that starts all- The electric model will now come out in 2026, with the arrival of the market in 2027.
The delay is consistent bearish view of luxury EVs from management. In an interview earlier this year, Walliser said the luxury car market is rejecting EVs.
This wouldn't be the first time Bentley got cold feet. The automaker began discussing EVs in 2016, showing a few concepts, but backed off in 2019 following a change in leadership.