Bentley's First All-Electric SUV: No Gas Comeback, But a Legendary Name May Return

Daily Car

19/03/2026

Bentley is preparing to unveil its first fully electric SUV, signaling the brand’s continued step into a zero-emissions future. While this marks a major evolution for the luxury automaker, what's equally notable is the decision to forego any internal combustion or hybrid offerings for the new model—choosing instead to potentially honor its heritage through the nameplate.

Key Takeaways

Bentley’s first EV SUV will not get a plug-in hybrid or gas engine option.
The vehicle might be named "Barnato" after the legendary Woolf Barnato, honoring its racing past.
The EV will be built on a specialized platform that is unsuitable for combustion engines.
The iconic Bentayga SUV will continue for those seeking gasoline models.

A Nod to Legacy: The Barnato Name

Rumors are intensifying that Bentley’s new electric SUV could be called the "Barnato." Trademark filings for the name, recently submitted across major automotive markets in the US, EU, and UK, have heightened speculation. If chosen, "Barnato" would pay homage to Woolf Barnato, a three-time Le Mans champ and significant figure in Bentley’s racing history, and someone who owned and led the brand to iconic motorsport triumphs in the 1920s and 1930s.

Bentley has previously celebrated the Barnato family, notably with a special edition Bentayga S dedicated to Diana Barnato Walker, Woolf’s daughter and a distinguished World War II pilot.

Pure Electric: No Hybrid Or Gasoline Alternative

Unlike some rivals now reconsidering their electric trajectories, Bentley’s leadership is clear: the upcoming EV SUV will not be adapted for plug-in hybrid or traditional gasoline powertrains. CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser stressed that the vehicle’s platform—called PPE—was designed as all-electric from the outset, making any retrofitting for combustion engines impractical.

This sets Bentley apart at a time when competitors like Porsche are reintroducing combustion options in response to lukewarm EV sales in some regions.

Coexistence With Bentayga

To ensure all of its customers’ needs are met, Bentley confirmed the popular Bentayga will continue in the lineup. That means buyers who want a luxurious SUV with a gasoline or hybrid powertrain will still have that option, even as Bentley embraces a new era with its all-electric entry.

What It Means For The Future

The launch of an all-electric, heritage-inspired SUV is a pivotal move for Bentley, reflecting broader trends and challenges in the luxury car market. The company is betting on the appeal of its renowned craftsmanship, modern EV technology, and a storied name to draw in both loyalists and new customers as the industry shifts towards electrification.

While questions remain about the pace of EV adoption among luxury buyers, Bentley’s unwavering commitment signals a firm belief in an electric future—with a respectful glance back at its glorious past.

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