Bentley is on the cusp of unveiling a new production model, the Torcal, which will sit alongside the Continental GT and GTC, the Bentayga, and the Flying Spur, and will also serve as the first electric production model from the historic luxury manufacturer. Highly anticipated as part of its Beyond100+ strategy, the Torcal promises to combine the longstanding pedigree of Bentley excellence with cutting-edge innovation.
Included in that philosophy is the sound experience of the Torcal. A question begged of just about any EV, the sound of an electric vehicle is an opportunity to enhance the driving experience when there is no engine or exhaust to provide a sound of its own. To answer the question, Bentley decided to curate a sound experience for the Torcal that combines the heritage of the manufacturer with the bold futurism of its new model.
Inspirations for the Torcal’s sound include the V8s that have defined Bentley’s history, supercharged powertrains that date back to the 1930s, and even the W12 engine that was retired from production in 2024. Bringing them all together is a principle that, “accelerating in a Bentley is an immersive and emotional experience like listening to a grand orchestral performance.”
In the case of the upcoming Torcal, the development team recorded and analyzed the sound of a V8. What they found was that rhythm was an integral factor in the V8’s auditory appeal, and when played next to a drummer performing, the two sounds were revealed to be similar. In addition, the team took note of the fact that combustion engines have irregularities and imperfections that are part of the sound experience.
With these insights in mind, Bentley Motors brought known musicians to create an original sound for the Torcal, ‘Bentley Dynamic Symphony.’ Rather than replicating heritage engine notes, the sound of the Torcal is a unique experience that evokes the same emotions. Created by real instruments, like drums, bass guitar, and viola, the Bentley Dynamic Symphony uses the legendary V8 as its muse, but introduces drivers to a sound experience that is completely new.
Image Source: Bentley Motors
