The British brand's first 100% electric model arrives in 2026; To deal with high tension, employees will wear clothes with carbon fiber
Bentley will begin a new stage in its history in 2026 with the launch of Barnato, its first all-electric model. The luxury SUV, positioned below the Bentayga, required a complete readjustment of the assembly line in Crewe, England, going so far as to redesign employee uniforms to mitigate risks of electrical discharges.
The new workwear was developed over 18 months and incorporates carbon fiber yarns to dissipate static electricity. The measure is vital for the safety of technicians handling the high-voltage components of battery systems. In addition to protection, the brand prioritized sustainability: the replaced uniforms will be recycled and transformed into acoustic insulation, reinforcing the company’s commitment to carbon neutrality.
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Barnato will be built on the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform, an 800-volt architecture developed in partnership between Audi and Porsche. This technical base, shared with models such as the Macan Electric and the Q6 e-tron, allows ultra-fast recharges and guarantees the delivery of instant torque — a fundamental feature to maintain the British manufacturer’s performance DNA.
The launch comes at an ambiguous time for the high-end luxury segment. While demand for electric vehicles is showing signs of cooling in the United States, Bentley remains optimistic. The brand’s bet is that the Barnato will attract an urban audience looking for exclusivity without the emissions of traditional W12 engines. After the global debut, the model should land in North America only in 2027.
