Bentley's First EV Ditches V8 Roar for Drum Sounds

Bentley's First EV: Drum Sound Replaces V8 Roar

Bentley Motors, the British luxury car manufacturer, is developing its first fully electric vehicle (EV) which will replace the traditional V8 engine roar with a sound generated by acoustic drums. This approach to EV sound design aims to preserve the brand's auditory identity while complying with global pedestrian safety regulations. For Malaysian luxury car enthusiasts, the drum sound represents a novel departure from the synthetic engine noises used by competitors, and the vehicle is expected to be compatible with Malaysia's 240V power grid and Type G (UK-style) charging plugs. The first Bentley EV is anticipated to launch in 2025 or 2026, though official Malaysian pricing and distributor details have not been announced.

Key Facts

Why Did Bentley Choose Drum Sounds for Its First EV?

Bentley selected drum sounds to replace the V8 roar because drums produce a rich, rhythmic, and powerful acoustic signature that aligns with the brand's heritage of craftsmanship and performance. According to the source article, Bentley's sound engineers collaborated with percussionists to record and synthesise drum hits that evoke the pulse of a combustion engine without mimicking it.

"The drum sound represents the heartbeat of the car – it gives the driver a visceral connection to the vehicle's power, even in silence."

— Bentley spokesperson, as quoted in the careta.my article

Bentley's first EV uses drum sounds because they provide a natural, non-synthetic auditory feedback that retains the brand's character while meeting EV noise regulations.

How Does the Drum Sound Compare to the V8 Roar?

The drum sound is fundamentally different from the V8 roar: it is percussive and rhythmic rather than continuous and mechanical. Bentley's engineers designed the drum sound to vary with acceleration and speed, creating a dynamic audio experience. In contrast, the V8 roar is a product of internal combustion, with a signature frequency range of 80–200 Hz. The drum sound covers a similar low-frequency range but with sharper attack and decay.

Unlike the V8 roar, the drum sound in Bentley's first EV is generated by recorded acoustic drums and is fully customisable through software updates.

What Are the Technical Specifications of Bentley's First EV?

Bentley has not released full technical specifications for its first EV. However, based on industry reports and the source article, the vehicle is expected to use the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture shared with Audi and Porsche, offering a range of approximately 500–600 km (WLTP). The drum sound system is integrated into the vehicle's external speaker and internal audio system, compliant with UN Regulation No. 138 for Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS).

Bentley's first EV is expected to deliver over 600 hp and a 0–100 km/h time under 4 seconds, with the drum sound active both inside and outside the car.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

Bentley's first EV targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals in Malaysia who value bespoke luxury, brand heritage, and environmental consciousness. The drum sound appeals to buyers who find synthetic engine noises artificial and prefer an organic, artistic alternative. Malaysian owners will likely use the vehicle in urban areas (Kuala Lumpur, Penang) and on long-distance drives, where the EV's quiet operation and drum sound provide a unique driving experience. The vehicle's compatibility with Malaysia's 240V/32A home charging (Type G plug) and CCS2 fast chargers (e.g., from Gentari, ChargeSini) makes it practical for local use.

Bentley's first EV with drum sound is designed for Malaysian luxury car buyers who seek a distinctive auditory identity that honours the brand's V8 heritage while embracing electric mobility.

Common Questions

When will Bentley's first EV be available in Malaysia?

Bentley has not announced a specific launch date for Malaysia. Global production is expected to begin in 2025 or 2026. Malaysian deliveries will likely follow within 6–12 months after the global launch, subject to local homologation and SIRIM certification.

Can the drum sound be customised or turned off?

According to the source article, Bentley plans to offer multiple drum sound profiles that can be selected via the infotainment system. The external AVAS sound cannot be turned off for safety reasons, but the internal sound can be adjusted or muted.

Does the drum sound comply with Malaysian pedestrian safety regulations?

Yes. The drum sound is designed to meet UN Regulation No. 138, which Malaysia has adopted for all new EVs. The sound is audible at low speeds (below 20 km/h) to alert pedestrians, and it will be tested by SIRIM before local sale.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the source material published at careta.my (title: "Bentley Guna Bunyi Dram Gantikan Deruman V8 Pada EV Pertamanya"). Additional context for Malaysian readers was added using publicly available information about Bentley's EV plans and local charging infrastructure. Currency conversions are not applicable as no prices were quoted in the source. All specifications are preliminary and subject to change. This article was last updated on 14 October 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the Malaysian Automotive Association and SIRIM standards where available.