The famous British brand continues to tease its first all-electric crossover, the Torcal, ahead of its debut on September 23, revealing details that set it apart from other luxury EVs.
The main feature of this luxury flagship is an interior finish that has never been used in the automotive industry before. It is made from 100% merino wool. The material is known for its softness and tactile warmth, but automakers have long avoided it because of concerns about durability. Bentley engineers solved the problem by teaming up with legendary British mill Fox Brothers. The company, known for its fabrics and tweed, developed a unique blend capable of meeting the toughest demands of automotive use. It is not only the world’s first automotive textile made from pure merino wool, but also the first fabric of its kind to receive Responsible Wool Standard certification. Buyers will be offered six color combinations, with shades gradually blending into one another to create a modern, harmonious atmosphere.
But the unique materials do not stop there. The Torcal will also debut a new Ombre Veneer. Its production is a story in itself. Environmentally friendly walnut-wood waste and recycled paper are used to make it. Up to 1,000 individually selected layers are compressed and then sliced into sheets less than a millimeter thick. The result is striking, with the color depth changing from rich black through smoky shades to the natural tone of walnut. It looks futuristic while referencing centuries-old English woodworking traditions. For those who appreciate high-tech details, Mulliner will offer an optional Sunburst aluminum panel. It is a modern take on the classic aluminum dashboards that adorned sports cars in the last century. The sunburst pattern on the metal adds a bold technological touch to the interior.
As for the hardware, the Torcal is essentially a heavily reworked Porsche Cayenne Electric. The British crossover inherits its platform from the donor vehicle, but its exterior will be unique thanks to its own front and rear lighting. Inside, there will be a curved display and a signature drive-mode selector. Powertrain specifications are still being kept secret, but the Cayenne provides a useful reference point. It offers a 113-kWh battery and 390-kW charging capability. Its motors produce between 435 and 1,139 hp. Rumor has it that Bentley will limit output to around 800 hp, which seems fairly fitting for a luxury EV. We will learn the official figures next month, while the estimated price of the new model is around $225,000.