Bentley is poised to launch its first fully electric vehicle before the end of 2026, and evidence suggests the model will be named “Barnato.” A trademark filing in the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom strongly indicates this choice. The name honors Woolf Barnato, a pivotal figure in Bentley’s early history who not only saved the company from financial collapse in 1925 but also drove the brand to three consecutive victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The Legacy of Woolf Barnato
Barnato’s story is more than just automotive success; it’s a tale of ambition and daring. Inheriting a diamond mining fortune, he acquired a Bentley in 1925 and, a year later, stepped in to rescue the struggling automaker, becoming its chairman. Under his leadership, Bentley produced iconic models like the Speed Six and the supercharged Blower Bentley, cementing its reputation for performance and luxury.
Beyond business, Barnato was a passionate racer. He won Le Mans three times between 1928 and 1930, establishing Bentley’s dominance in endurance racing. His most audacious feat involved a high-speed challenge against the French luxury train Le Train Bleu in 1930. Barnato famously wagered he could beat the train to London, and he succeeded by four minutes, despite incurring a speeding fine from French authorities. This stunt brought immense publicity to Bentley and inspired the creation of the “Blue Train Special”—a modified Speed Six celebrating his victory.
Trademark Evidence & Future Plans
The trademark filing for “Barnato” covers “motor vehicles and parts,” including electric vehicles, charging cables, and stations. This detail makes it highly probable that Bentley has settled on this name for its first EV, especially considering the brand’s limited immediate focus on electrification. While Bentley also filed trademarks for “Torcal” in Europe and the UK, “Barnato” appears in all three major markets.
Notably, Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser has ruled out a revival of the “Mulsanne” name for future models, despite its historical significance. This suggests a deliberate shift towards honoring figures who shaped the brand’s foundational identity rather than solely relying on past product names.
The decision to name Bentley’s first EV after Woolf Barnato is a strategic nod to the company’s heritage, reinforcing its commitment to performance and luxury while entering the electric era.
The small SUV form factor, confirmed by spy photos, aligns with current market trends while providing a canvas to carry forward Bentley’s brand legacy. The official reveal is expected later this year, confirming whether “Barnato” will indeed become the name of this pivotal model.
