The growth in electric car sales in 2024 has slowed to just 35 percent. The wild momentum from a few years ago is gone. In this context, Bentley has announced something that until recently seemed impossible – postponing the date for a full transition to electric vehicles from 2030 to 2035.
Why is Bentley slowing down the electric revolution?
Frank-Steffen Walliser, the brand’s president, put it plainly: “this is a realistic adjustment, not a step backwards.” It sounds like a diplomatic explanation, but behind these words lies a hard market analysis. Bentley isn’t the only brand that now has to justify a change of plans.
The truth is that plug-in hybrids are selling better than anyone expected. In 2023, they already accounted for 20-25 percent of all Bentleys sold. Clearly, customers prefer having a choice—sometimes driving electric, sometimes on petrol. No one likes to feel trapped in a single solution.
Na tę decyzję wpłynęły trzy główne czynniki:
• The market has clearly slowed down – demand for pure electric vehicles is not growing as fast as expected, while hybrids are gaining more and more supporters.
• EU regulations remain unchanged – the ban on the sale of combustion cars is still set for 2035, so Bentley still has some time to maneuver
• Battery costs are still too high for electric cars to compete on price without government subsidies
Walliser also mentioned the “responsibility towards employees and dealers.” This means that the company does not want to make any sudden moves that could harm the entire supply chain.
An interesting thing – Bentley isn’t giving up on electrification, but rather adjusting the pace to match reality. After all, it’s a luxury brand whose clients have specific expectations. An extra five years could prove crucial for perfecting the technology and winning over even the most demanding buyers.
Consequences for Bentley, customers, and the luxury car market
Bentley’s electrification delay is not just a technological issue—it has tangible consequences for the entire business. And it’s hardly surprising that the brand now has to rapidly reorganize its product plans.
The hybrid portfolio is now becoming the main direction of development through 2030. Bentayga Hybrid is already available, as is the Flying Spur Hybrid. Now, the Continental GT Hybrid is likely to join them. However, these cars have a rather modest electric range — we’re talking about 25-31 km according to WLTP. That’s really only enough for city driving.
An interesting thing about this brand’s customers. I recently spoke with the owner of a transport company in Warsaw that serves VIP clients. He says hybrids are the perfect solution for him. Why? Because 350 kW chargers are practically nonexistent, and his drivers mostly operate in and around Warsaw. The hybrid range is enough for city commutes, and when they need to go further, petrol takes care of the rest.
This highlights something important – luxury car customers think differently than average buyers. Comfort and confidence matter more than ecology. No one wants to spend two hours charging a Bentley.
| Brand | A year of full BEV | The first BEV model | Investments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bentley | 2035 | 2026-2027 | GBP 3,000 million |
| Rolls-Royce | 2030 | Spectre (2023) | GBP 2,500 million |
| Mercedes-Maybach | 2030 | EQS Maybach (2022) | 1,500 million EUR |
Rolls-Royce has had the Spectre on the market since last year. Mercedes-Maybach isn’t lagging behind with the EQS either. Bentley is falling behind, but maybe that’s not such a bad strategy? After all, it’s better to launch a great car a bit later than to rush out something mediocre.
The problem is that the market won’t stop. If competitors already have proven electric models while Bentley is just getting started, it may be difficult to catch up. Especially in China, where electric cars are already the standard among wealthy customers.
On the other hand, maybe this pause will allow for better preparation of infrastructure and technology. After all, what’s the point of having the car ready if customers are still worried about range and charging?
What’s next – scenarios for 2035 and key takeaways
After analyzing the current market situation, it’s worth considering what the coming years may bring. To be honest, no one has a crystal ball, but we can venture a few possible scenarios.
▶ Optimistic scenario → Bentley returns to the top
Let’s assume everything goes according to plan. Infrastructure in Poland is developing rapidly, we reach that one million electric vehicles by 2030. Bentley launches the new Flying Spur EV, which actually delivers 600 km on a single charge. Customers stop complaining about range and charging times. In this scenario, the brand regains its position as a technological leader in the ultra-premium segment.
▶ Realistic scenario → Gradual transformation
It’s likely that infrastructure will continue to grow, but not as quickly as planned. Bentley is keeping its hybrid offering until 2028, as customers aren’t ready for full electrification. “The transition will be gradual, not revolutionary”—that’s how I see it. Sales remain steady, but without any spectacular increases.
▶ Cautious scenario → Delays and issues
The infrastructure is lacking, EU regulations are too restrictive, and battery costs are not dropping fast enough. Bentley will have to introduce additional charges for combustion engine models as early as 2026 due to Euro 8 and the CO₂ tax. Some customers are postponing their purchases, waiting for better times.
If you’re considering a purchase, I have a few tips. For corporate fleets: invest in PHEVs now, and wait until 2027 for BEVs. Private buyers should hold off on BEVs until 2026-2027, unless they have access to fast chargers at home.
As for EU regulations – they will be crucial. The Euro 8 standard will hit combustion V8 engines, and the CO₂ tax could raise prices by 15-20%. Bentley will likely pass these costs on to customers.
The transformation will be painful, but inevitable. Those who prepare in advance will handle it better.
