Bentley is pressing forward with its electric vehicle (EV) transition despite admitting that some of its most loyal customers may never give up internal combustion engines.
Chief Executive Frank-Steffen Walliser acknowledged that while many high-net-worth buyers are eager to adopt cutting-edge technology, others remain unwilling to embrace electric powertrains.
“There are, for sure, customers who say, fine, if it’s the latest and greatest technology I will take it, whatever it is,” Walliser said.
However, he noted that some buyers insist: “If it’s not a combustion engine, I will not drive it.”
The comments come as Bentley begins work on its first EV production line at its historic Pyms Lane plant in Crewe, which has been building luxury vehicles for 85 years. The facility is set to manufacture the brand’s first all-electric battery-powered SUV in 2026, with deliveries expected to start in 2027.
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