Bentley Teases the Torcal, Its First Electric Vehicle — Launching September 23

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Bentley has officially confirmed that it will finally add an all-electric vehicle to its storied lineup. The legendary British luxury automaker, now under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, released a teaser image of its first EV — named the Torcal — along with a firm launch date: September 23 in London.

“Our new Torcal sets extraordinary benchmarks in every area that matters, and may just be the most considered car in our history,” said Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser.

The Torcal marks a pivotal moment for the 107-year-old brand as it transitions toward electrification. Here’s everything we know so far.

What’s in a Name?

The Torcal name draws from El Torcal de Antequera, a stunning natural rock formation in southern Spain known for its otherworldly limestone karst landscapes. But Bentley is also playing with language — the name nods to the Latin word for “torque,” hinting at the instant electric power delivery that EVs are famous for. The naming convention follows Bentley’s tradition of using natural landmarks, following the Bentayga, Bacalar, and Batur.

Design and Styling

While the teaser only shows the vehicle’s rear — complete with the iconic Bentley logo — spy shots from earlier this year reveal much more. The Torcal was spotted undergoing cold-weather testing in the Arctic Circle, showing off a fastback-like silhouette that borrows heavily from last year’s EXP 15 design concept.

The vehicle was also seen lapping Germany’s Nürburgring under heavy camouflage. Those spy photos caught glimpses of the interior, which appears to feature red leather upholstery paired with black Alcantara — classic Bentley craftsmanship — along with a large curved display and mechanical tactile controls, blending tradition with modernity.

What We Know So Far

Bentley first announced its intention to build an electric SUV back in 2021, making the Torcal a long-awaited arrival. While exact specifications remain under wraps, the company has positioned the Torcal as a flagship model within its Beyond100 electrification strategy.

Detail	Status
Name	Bentley Torcal
Type	All-electric SUV
Reveal Date	September 23, 2026
Location	London
Platform	VW Group (likely PPE architecture)
Inspiration	EXP 15 Concept, El Torcal de Antequera

The Road Ahead

Bentley’s entry into the EV space comes as the broader luxury automotive market accelerates its shift to electric powertrains. Rivals like Rolls-Royce (with the Spectre) and Lamborghini have already begun their electrification journeys, and Bentley’s Torcal aims to set a new benchmark in luxury EV performance, craftsmanship, and range.

“In the coming weeks, more updates on the Bentley Torcal will be revealed in the build up to the 23 September,” Bentley wrote in its announcement. “New in concept, yet Bentley to its core, the Torcal carries forward the craftsmanship and performance that have defined the brand since 1919.”

With its blend of heritage, cutting-edge EV tech, and unmistakable British luxury, the Torcal could well be the most important car Bentley has ever built. Stay tuned for the full reveal later this year.

Bentley on Know the Tech

Bentley Teases the Torcal, Its First Electric Vehicle — Launching September 23

What’s in a Name?

Design and Styling

What We Know So Far

The Road Ahead