Bentley EXP 15

A vehicle that will explore the future direction of Bentley

The Bentley EXP 15 concept car embodies Bentley’s design vision. Its styling is inspired by early 20th century grand tourers and reinterpreted in a way that suits the 21st century. The slender, five-metre body features classic proportions, including an upright grille, long nose bonnets and a cabin positioned aft.

The source of this homage is the 1930 Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman Coupe, a famous car known for its participation in the Blue Train Race, in which Woolf Barnato, then chairman of Bentley and a member of the Bentley Boys, arrived in London before Le Train Bleu (the Blue Train), a luxury train that departed from Cannes in the south of France.

The EXP 15 combines a modern exterior, advanced lighting details, active aero parts, and more, beautifully fusing past heritage with future craftsmanship. The development team envisions a fully electric, all-wheel drive powertrain that combines sustainability and comfort, with a long driving range and fast charging capabilities. Although it is not a model planned for commercial release, it is said to be a preview of the design of the Bentley brand’s first fully electric model.

Robin Page, Bentley Design Director, had this to say about the EX 15:

“Concept cars not only allow us to propose new designs, but also to explore market directions. It is clear that the SUV market is currently expanding. As for the GT market, we are confident that we have a deep grasp of its essence through the development of four generations of the Continental GT.”

“However, the sedan market is the most challenging. Tastes are highly differentiated and changing. Some customers prefer the traditional three-box configuration, while others want a one-box design. Still others are looking for a more refined, upscale design. This is why this concept is a great opportunity for us to listen and feel what people are saying.”

Adopts a 3-seat/3-door layout

The interior of the fully electric concept Bentley EXP 15. — The EXP 15 introduced a “3-seat/3-door” layout that set it apart from previous vehicles.

The interior also embodies this advanced design approach. Virtual reality (VR) software was used to design the interior, allowing customers to visually and experientially explore various trims and finishes. This allows physical interior components such as the seats, dashboard, steering wheel, and various switches and dials to blend seamlessly with digital elements that change based on the passenger’s mood.

The EXP 15 features a unique three-seat/three-door packaging that distinguishes it from conventional four-seat/five-seat or four-door/five-door configurations. This unique layout not only provides an exceptional driving space for the driver and passengers, but also incorporates ingenious storage space for luggage and pets. It offers a high level of both comfort and functionality, and the rear luggage space can even be used as a picnic seat when parked.

The front passenger seat can be moved to multiple positions depending on the passenger’s mood and needs. For example, in “Co-Pilot Mode” it is positioned forward next to the driver, in “Standard Mode” it slides towards the rear seat, and in “Relax Mode” it reclines. In “Standard Mode” and “Relax Mode,” the front passenger seat offers ample legroom, and the Concertina underfloor storage system allows the footrest to fold into the floor, providing additional space for pets or luggage.

The selection of materials reflects Bentley’s unique aesthetic sense, emphasizing tradition, craftsmanship and sustainability while also striving for a futuristic and cutting-edge aesthetic. For example, the car features 100% wool fabric from Fox Brothers, a British company with a history of over 250 years, known for inventing a fabric that repels thorny plants. This creates a gradation effect in the interior, harmonizing beautifully with the lightweight 3D-printed titanium parts.