Bentley has taken a different approach to sound for its first electric vehicle.
Instead of synthesizing engine noise, the British luxury brand commissioned an original soundtrack using live instruments.
>>> Liz Oyer Accuses Todd Blanche of Retaliation Over Gun Rights Case
The Torcal SUV will feature the “Bentley Dynamic Symphony,” composed with drums, viola, and bass guitar.
The sound responds to the driver's throttle inputs, rising and falling with acceleration.
Rhythm Over Replication
Bentley's engineers recorded and analyzed its iconic V8 in a studio. They concluded that the rhythm, not the exhaust note itself, made the engine special.
Using two parabolic speakers, one played V8 recordings while a drummer performed through the other. Engineers found similarities in cadence, energy, and emotional impact between the two.
They also noted that subtle imperfections shared by drumming and combustion engines create a more authentic, human experience.
Bentley did not set out to recreate an engine note.
>>> 2027 Toyota Prius Gets Minor Updates as Sales Plunge 42%
The tempo increases under acceleration and eases off when the driver lifts off.
The result is a unique sound that aims to deliver the same sense of occasion as Bentley's V8-powered models.
The Torcal will debut on September 23 in London.
It sits below the Bentayga on the Volkswagen Group's PPE electric architecture, shared with the Porsche Cayenne Electric.
Expected specs include dual-motor all-wheel drive, a 113kWh battery, charging speeds up to 390kW, and over 300 miles of range.
>>> China Launches 650 New Cars in Six Months, Outpacing US Plans
Bentley prioritized effortless real-world usability over headline numbers.
