When one thinks of big, powerful diesel engines, one probably doesn’t give much thought to uber-luxury automaker Bentley. But the makers of opulent luxury barges like the Flying Spur and Continental GT are getting into the crossover game, and to meet growing fuel economy and emissions requirements, the niche automaker is will offer a diesel engine alongside its gas powerplant.

In order to achieve similar performance as the 608 horsepower twin-turbo V12 gas engine, Automotive News reports that Bentley will utilize an electronic turbocharger with near-instantaneous spooling, providing ample low-end oomph.

Audi, which like Bentley is owned by Volkswagen AG, debuted a 385 horsepower Audi RS5 TDI turbodiesel with an electronic turbocharger while promising to bring the technology to production in the next few years. The introduction of a 48-volt electrucal system is what allows Audi and Bentley to use the powerful electric turbo, allowing for immediate spooling and power. In the RS5, the electric turbo is supported by two traditional, exhaust-driven turbos that take over at higher RPMs.

It’s probably pretty safe to assume the Bentayga crossover will use a similar setup, with an electric turbo feeding two traditional turbocharger setups. Of course we’re expecting way more power from the Bentayga, given that the gas model will start at $229,000 and the diesel is expected to carry an even more premium price tag. Alas, those are about all the details Bentley is ready to share, as there’s no timetable on the diesel’s introduction, nor its availability in the U.S.

Are electronic turbocharges the next step in diesel engine evolution? Can they help restore the reputation of Volkswagen’s once-venerated TDI lineup?