THE BREAKDOWN: A new Bentley trademark hints at the possible name for the brand’s new electric SUV. Bentley filed a trademark for 'Barnato.' It likely honors Woolf Barnato, one of the original 'Bentley Boys.' Bentley is readying a new electric SUV. It was supposed to debut last year, but the automaker had to push it to 2026. Details are still scarce, including the name, but a recent trademark filing may reveal the model’s potential name—Barnato. The so-called Barnato will slot below the Bentley Bentayga, the automaker’s best-selling model, when it goes on sale. It will be smaller, too, with a fully electric powertrain. The application, filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in August 2025, is for vehicles and charging accessories. The patent was originally uncovered by Car and Driver. Bentley 'Urban SUV' Rendering by Motor1 The Barnato name likely honors Woolf Barnato, one of the original "Bentley Boys." He served as the company’s managing director from 1926 to 1931. He also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times, once in a Bentley 4½ Litre and twice in a Bentley Speed Six. This new SUV will be the automaker’s first electric vehicle. Bentley announced the model in 2024, publishing a single teaser image that highlights its silhouette. It looks like it will be a smaller Bentayga, which isn’t a bad thing. The big SUV accounts for over 40 percent of the automaker’s sales. When the Barnato debuts later this year, it will ride on Volkswagen Group’s PPE EV platform, which also underpins the Audi Q6 E-Tron and Porsche Macan Electric. Specific powertrain details remain a mystery. We’ll have to wait to learn more, including its name. Motor1’s Take: Bentley Barnato is a strong name that also honors the company’s beginnings in a unique way, but a trademark filing isn’t proof, just an indication. Bentley might have another name ready for the electric SUV. We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Motor1.com? Take our 3 minute survey. - The Motor1.com Team
