LONDON — Bentley has unveiled its first fully electric vehicle as the luxury automaker begins a major investment program aimed at preparing its historic Crewe factory for the next generation of electric cars.

The new Bentley Torcal SUV will be built on a dedicated production line at the company's headquarters in Cheshire, where Bentley has operated since 1946.

The company is investing approximately £350 million to modernize the facility and establish the new production line.

British Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the investment would help support around 4,000 high-value local jobs in Crewe.

Bentley enters a new electric era

The Torcal represents an important milestone for Bentley as the company expands its range of fully electric vehicles.

According to Bentley, the SUV will feature a 113kWh battery capable of delivering up to 375 miles (600 kilometers) of range.

The company also says the vehicle can charge from 10% to 80% in less than 20 minutes when connected to a 400kW charger.

The combination of long-range capability and rapid charging is designed to make the Torcal suitable for both everyday driving and long-distance travel.

Torcal S delivers Bentley's highest performance

Bentley will also offer a higher-performance Torcal S version.

The company says the Torcal S will be its most powerful production vehicle yet, with a top speed of 162 mph and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds.

The standard Torcal will have a top speed of 155 mph and will reach 60 mph in 3.3 seconds.

The figures highlight Bentley's effort to combine electric power with the performance traditionally associated with its luxury vehicles.

Luxury materials remain central to the design

Despite the shift to electric power, Bentley says the Torcal remains focused on traditional luxury and craftsmanship.

The interior incorporates materials including leather, wool and aluminum, combining premium finishes with modern technology.

Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Bentley's chairman and chief executive, described the Torcal as a vehicle designed to bring together the company's heritage and the latest advances in electric technology.

He said the SUV was created using premium materials and technology while retaining Bentley's emphasis on craftsmanship.

£350 million investment transforms Crewe factory

The new production line is located inside one of the original buildings at Bentley's Crewe facility. The structure dates back to 1938 and previously housed the company's machining operations before later being used as a research and development workshop.

The building has now been extensively redesigned to accommodate modern vehicle production.

A new factory floor has been installed to allow autonomous guided vehicles to transport cars through different stages of the manufacturing process.

The investment forms part of Bentley's broader effort to modernize its production operations as the automotive industry moves toward electrification.

UK automotive industry faces major changes

Bentley's announcement comes as Britain's automotive industry continues to navigate significant changes.

Automakers are investing in new electric models while also dealing with pressure over production costs, employment and the pace of the transition away from conventional engines.

The British government has highlighted recent investments from several major manufacturers as evidence of continued activity in the country's automotive sector.

Reynolds described Bentley's £350 million project as another significant investment in Britain's car industry, following major commitments announced by McLaren and Nissan.

Bentley's supply chain could also benefit

The government said the Torcal project could strengthen automotive supply chains across the region.

Bentley works with more than 700 suppliers, including approximately 82 companies located within 50 miles of its Crewe headquarters.

The investment is therefore expected to have an impact beyond Bentley's own factory, supporting businesses involved in manufacturing and supplying components and services to the automaker.

A major step for Bentley

The launch of the Torcal marks a significant change for one of Britain's best-known luxury car manufacturers.

As electric technology becomes increasingly important across the global automotive industry, Bentley is seeking to combine zero-emission power with the performance, craftsmanship and luxury associated with its brand.

The new SUV will be produced in Crewe, linking Bentley's historic manufacturing base with its transition toward an electric future.

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