Bentley's Next Electric SUV May Carry the 'Barnato' Moniker

Bentley is actively preparing to launch a new electric SUV, a vehicle that was initially slated for a 2025 release but has since been rescheduled for 2026. While many specifics remain under wraps, a recent trademark registration points to 'Barnato' as the potential designation for this innovative model. This name is a nod to Woolf Barnato, a significant figure in Bentley's history, known for his leadership and racing achievements.

This forthcoming electric SUV is anticipated to be positioned beneath Bentley's highly successful Bentayga in terms of size and market segment. It will feature an all-electric drivetrain, marking Bentley's foray into pure electric vehicles. The trademark application for 'Barnato' was submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office in August 2025, covering both vehicles and their associated charging apparatus. The discovery of this filing was initially reported by Car and Driver, sparking speculation about Bentley's strategic direction.

The choice of 'Barnato' for this new model would be a tribute to Woolf Barnato, a distinguished member of the original 'Bentley Boys' racing team. His tenure as managing director of Bentley from 1926 to 1931 was marked by notable successes, including three victories at the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans. These wins were achieved first with a Bentley 4½ Litre and subsequently twice with a Bentley Speed Six, cementing his legacy within the brand's storied racing heritage.

The electric SUV represents a pivotal moment for the automaker, as it will be their inaugural venture into the electric vehicle market. Bentley first teased the model in 2024 with a silhouette image, hinting at a design that appears to be a more compact version of the Bentayga. This strategy is understandable, given the Bentayga's considerable contribution to Bentley's sales, accounting for over 40 percent of the company's total vehicle deliveries.

Upon its debut, the Barnato will utilize the Volkswagen Group’s advanced PPE electric vehicle platform, a foundation shared with other luxury electric models such as the Audi Q6 E-Tron and Porsche Macan Electric. While the platform details are known, specific information regarding the powertrain and performance characteristics are still confidential. Enthusiasts and industry observers alike will need to await further announcements from Bentley to uncover more about this highly anticipated electric SUV, including its finalized name.

The name 'Barnato' carries a strong historical resonance for Bentley, connecting its electric future with a glorious past. Although a trademark filing provides a compelling hint, it does not serve as definitive proof of the final name. It is plausible that Bentley holds alternative names in consideration for its groundbreaking electric SUV. Nevertheless, the anticipation surrounding this vehicle remains high, as it signifies a major step in Bentley's commitment to electrification and sustainable luxury.