EXP 15: Bentley Turns to Future With Inspiration From the Past
British automaker Bentley, which has pushed back its target of selling only fully electric models from 2030 to 2035, has just given another glimpse of the vehicle that will start the ball rolling with the EXP 15 concept.
Reminiscent of Jaguar's Type 00 concept, but far more elegant, this unorthodox silhouette was inspired by the 1930 Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman coupe, as shown in the photo above. Here, however, the long wheelbase is accompanied by a relatively short hood and a much more spacious interior.
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Overall, the design shows a futuristic interpretation of Bentley's styling codes. The new grille is framed by vertical LED headlamps that are echoed in the lighting signature just in front of the doors, where a vent to channel air along the sides is also integrated.
The long, arched roofline and uniquely patterned, oversized wheels contrast with the boxy proportions of the lower body. In the rear, the slim LED taillights form almost a continuous ring, with the Bentley emblem in the middle. There are also dual active spoilers higher up and an active diffuser lower down.
The liquid metal satin paintwork finish, called Pallas Gold, uses a new-to-market, ultra-thin aluminum pigment so that the various radar devices can still transmit ‘through’ it without reducing signal quality. Pretty neat, isn’t it?
A Cabin Unlike Any Other
By the way, there is only one door on the driver's side, but two on the passenger's side. They give access to a right-hand-drive cabin with just three seats. The driver is alone at the front, leaving plenty of legroom for the left rear passenger, if not for luggage or even a pet carrier. The seat there can also slide fore and aft and rotate 45 degrees for easier ingress and egress.
The exquisite combination of materials includes wool textile and 3D-printed titanium finishes. Don’t miss the gold-knurled finish applied to the switchgear on the steering wheel and centre console, or the backlit panels on the doors and around the rear seats that emulate the front grille motif.
Meanwhile, the full-width dashboard can act as a digital interface for all manner of infotainment, or switch off to reveal a veneered wood surface visible underneath the glass. Also nestling centrally behind the screen is a clock-like device with multiple movable and illuminated fingers, which Bentley calls the ‘Mechanical Marvel,’ indicating the car’s direction of travel, the state of its electric charge and much more.
When stationary, the cargo space can take on a dual role as upmarket picnic seating, complete with small cushions form seats and a fridge to keep the champagne chilled.
Not Intended for Production
The EXP 15 concept is designed “as having a fully electric, all-wheel drive powertrain with a long range and charging speeds commensurate with the convenience customers have come to expect of a Bentley,” but no further details are being given of its technical specification.
To be clear, it’s also not a preview of the smaller all-electric production Bentley vehicle that’s expected in 2026. However, subtle design cues relating to that first car are highlighted within this concept’s exterior form, the company said. Don't miss our photo gallery at the top of the page to see more of the EXP 15.
