Bentley expands with new Engineering Technical Centre in Crewe

Bentley unveils state-of-the-art Engineering Technical Centre in Crewe to drive electrification and model development towards an all-electric future by 2035

Bentley has marked a decisive step in its electrification journey with the opening of a new Engineering Technical Centre at its headquarters in Crewe. The facility is a cornerstone of the company’s Beyond100+ strategy, bringing together virtual simulations and real-world testing to shape the prototypes of tomorrow’s models.

The new centre spans 13,000 square metres across two floors and houses a prototype workshop, materials development lab, and a software integration unit. A particular focus is placed on training and testing for high-voltage electrical systems and digital solutions, reflecting Bentley’s commitment to launching a new hybrid or electric model each year. Teams that previously worked in the historic A1 building have now moved in, while A1 itself is being transformed into a BEV assembly line, scheduled to begin production in 2027.

The scale of investment in Crewe is substantial. Since 2022, Bentley has committed £2.5 billion to the factory’s transformation. Part of this funding supports the Engineering Technical Centre alongside the newly opened Design Studio, a new Paint Shop, and the Integrated Logistics Centre due in 2026 to underpin BEV production.

Dr. Matthias Rabe, Member of the Board for R&D, described the centre as a “foundation for the next generation of electrified driving.” The timeline is clear: Bentley’s first fully electric car is set for presentation in 2026, with production following in 2027.

In the competitive landscape, Bentley’s strategy aligns with moves across the luxury sector. Rolls-Royce has already launched the Spectre, Ferrari is preparing its debut BEV in 2025, while Aston Martin continues to adjust its roadmap. Bentley, however, is pursuing a systematic transformation, investing not only in buildings but also in people and new technologies.

The Crewe site, with its 85-year heritage, is undergoing one of its most significant evolutions. From post-war workshops to today’s carbon-neutral facilities, Bentley’s factory reflects the wider shift in the automotive industry. Crewe now stands as a symbol of transition—from tradition to an electrified future.