Bentley has unveiled the Torcal, an all-new luxury SUV that becomes the British manufacturer’s first production electric car and its fourth model line.
Designed, engineered and built at Bentley’s Crewe factory, the five-metre-long Torcal introduces a new platform for the brand rather than being an electric version of the existing Bentayga. It launches in standard and more powerful ‘S’ forms, with up to 888hp and 375 miles of official range.
The Torcal also introduces a new design direction that will influence future Bentleys, regardless of whether they are electric, hybrid or combustion-powered.
It enters a small but increasingly competitive market for high-end electric SUVs, alongside models such as the Porsche Cayenne Electric and the Range Rover Electric.
New look for Bentley
The Torcal introduces a new design language previewed by Bentley’s ‘EXP 15’ concept. Rather than attempting to reproduce the large radiator grille required by Bentley’s combustion-powered cars, the front incorporates an illuminated diamond-pattern panel. The body has short overhangs, a long wheelbase and pronounced rear wheelarches.
It’s also the first production model to wear Bentley’s redesigned badge. The standard Torcal comes with 21-inch alloy wheels, while the S gets 22-inch wheels along with black exterior trim, darker rear lights, a different rear diffuser and red brake calipers.
Up to 888hp
Every Torcal is a four-wheel drive model that uses two electric motors. The standard model produces 821hp, accelerating from 0-60mph in 3.3 seconds before reaching a top speed of 155mph.
The more powerful Torcal ‘S’ increases output to 888hp when launch control is active. That reduces the 0-60mph time to 2.8 seconds, with a 162mph top speed.
A locking rear differential is used to distribute power between the rear wheels, while rear-wheel steering is fitted as standard.
The Torcal also introduces fully active suspension to a Bentley for the first time. Each damper can independently respond to the road surface and driver inputs, eliminating the need for conventional anti-roll bars.
375-mile range and 400kW charging
A 113kWh usable battery operates on an 800-volt electrical architecture and comes with a ten-year/100,000-mile warranty. Bentley quotes a maximum battery range of 375 miles.
DC rapid charging peaks at 400kW, with Bentley saying the battery can be replenished from 10% to 80% in less than 20 minutes. Under ideal conditions, around 100 miles of range can be added in seven minutes.
The Torcal is five metres long but is Bentley’s shortest current four-door model. There’s a 460-litre boot at the rear and a further 90 litres of storage beneath the bonnet. Rear-wheel steering helps reduce the turning circle to just over 11 metres.
Musical faux engine soundtrack
Bentley has taken an unusual approach to creating an artificial sound for its first EV. Rather than digitally reproducing the sound of one of its petrol engines, the company recorded musicians playing drums, viola and bass guitar, with the rhythm inspired by a Bentley V8.
The resulting sound changes according to speed and accelerator input and becomes louder in Sport mode. Drivers can also switch it off completely.
New tech and materials
Inside, Bentley has retained physical controls for frequently used functions alongside new curved OLED displays.
Standard front seats offer 16-way adjustment, heating, ventilation and massage functions, while more advanced seats can automatically adjust their shape and temperature during a journey. The three-seat rear bench can also be electrically folded for the first time on a Bentley.
There are 25 cameras, radar units and other sensors supporting the car’s driver assistance and parking systems. The Torcal can remember frequently used parking manoeuvres and park remotely using a smartphone, while its powered doors can automatically open and close.
Bentley is also introducing several new interior materials, including a 100% Merino wool fabric developed with Somerset textile manufacturer Fox Brothers. More traditional leather, wood veneer and aluminium finishes remain available.
The Bentley Torcal will launch in standard and ‘S’ forms. Pricing and customer delivery timings have yet to be announced.
