Bentley has released its first electric car

Bentley this week unveiled its first all-electric car.

The launch of the Torcal SUV comes just months after Ferrari first unveiled a new electric car, which has drawn criticism from some enthusiasts over the fact that it bears little resemblance to the Italian brand's traditional low-landing sports cars and petrol engine.

The debut electric Bentley, by contrast, has become unmistakably recognisable as part of the family. It retains the design elements of the company’s models with internal combustion engines, up to diamond-shaped headlights.

The car also recreates the feel of the V8 engine thanks to a soundtrack based on orchestral kettles (or smaller kettle drums). Their rhythm accelerates as the car accelerates.

Our goal has always been to build Bentley first. We believe people don’t need a completely different car just because it’s electric, said Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser.