Introducing the New Torcal: Bentley’s Landmark Electric SUV
Bentley has unveiled one of the most significant vehicles in its 107-year history—the Torcal, its inaugural fully electric production model, which introduces an entirely new fourth model line.
Manufactured in Crewe, this luxury SUV stretches five meters and boasts an impressive output of up to 888 PS and a staggering 1,350 Nm of torque, establishing it as the highest-torque Bentley ever created.
Amidst a luxurious interior adorned with leather, wool, and meticulous craftsmanship, the performance capabilities are astonishing. The flagship Torcal S accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.8 seconds, reaching 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, and boasts a top speed of 162 mph.
However, Bentley emphasizes that the Torcal is more than just an electric speed machine.
“The Torcal embodies the essence of Bentley, meticulously handcrafted by dedicated artisans using premium materials and advanced technology that merges heritage with state-of-the-art innovation. I believe this is one of the finest Bentleys we have ever produced,” stated Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Bentley’s chairman and CEO.
Impressive Range and Rapid Charging Capabilities
Powering this luxury SUV are two electric motors fueled by a robust 113 kWh battery, offering an impressive range of up to 375 miles per charge.
Using a powerful 400 kW charger, drivers can add approximately 100 miles in just seven minutes. Additionally, a rapid charge can replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent in under 20 minutes.
The Torcal introduces Bentley’s innovative fully active suspension system, equipped with adaptive dampers and standard all-wheel steering, making it surprisingly maneuverable despite its significant length, with a turning circle of just 11.1 meters.
The vehicle is replete with advanced technology, utilizing 25 radars, sensors, and cameras to monitor its environment. Notably, the Torcal can autonomously reverse along narrow roads to yield to obstacles.
It also features four powered doors that can open and close automatically, along with facial recognition technology to identify the driver and customize their settings.
An Electric Experience with a Unique Sound
A distinctive aspect of the Torcal is its engineered sound profile.
Instead of imitating engine noise, Bentley collaborated with musicians to create the Bentley Dynamic Symphony, drawing inspiration from the beat of its iconic 6¾-litre V8. This sound evolves with the vehicle’s speed and acceleration, becoming more pronounced in Sport mode while offering the option to silence it entirely when desired.
Even the turn signal sound is uniquely Bentley, derived from the sound of a hammer striking leather in their upholstery workshop. Inside, traditional craftsmanship is harmonized with contemporary materials.
Working with Somerset-based textile producer Fox Brothers, Bentley has developed what it claims is the world’s first 100 percent Merino wool automotive fabric, alongside leather, aluminum, and sustainably sourced materials.
The seats feature 16-way adjustments with heating, ventilation, and massage functionality as standard; an optional Wellness package provides additional massage options for the legs, back, and shoulders.
Technologically advanced features include curved OLED displays, an augmented-reality head-up display, and four driving experience modes—Bentley, Comfort, Sport, and Refresh.
At launch, two variants will be available: the standard Torcal generating 821 PS and 1,194 Nm, capable of reaching 60 mph in 3.3 seconds, alongside the Torcal S, enhancing performance to 888 PS and 1,350 Nm.
Bentley envisions the Torcal as a prototype for its future vehicles, regardless of their power sources, solidifying the arrival of electric Bentleys—a statement that is anything but quiet.
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