Bentley Motors is paving the way for its all-electric future. To do this, the company has revealed the stunning Bentley EXP 15 concept—a breathtaking vision that masterfully blends the brand’s storied heritage with cutting-edge technology. Although not a production car, the EXP 15 acts as a crucial signpost. Crucially, it offers the first significant clues to Bentley’s first full-electric vehicle (EV), which the company will reveal in 2026.
This elevated sporting sedan reimagines the spirit of the legendary 1930 “Blue Train” Bentley. As a result, it defines the next chapter of the sustainable, luxury Grand Tourer.
Key Features of the Bentley EXP 15 Concept
- Future-Forward Design: A full-size exterior model and virtual reality (VR) interior showcase Bentley’s future design language.
- All-Electric Powertrain: Features a high-performance, long-range, all-wheel drive electric powertrain for the ultimate sustainable Grand Tour.
- 2026 EV Preview: Offers design hints for Bentley’s first production electric car.
- Heritage-Inspired: Draws inspiration from the iconic 1930 three-seater Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman coupe.
- Revolutionary Layout: An innovative three-seater cabin with coach doors, designed for unparalleled luxury and in-cabin storage.
- Digital & Physical Fusion: A groundbreaking interior that merges physical switches with “on-demand” digital interfaces.
- Sustainable Luxury: Deep collaboration with traditional British suppliers like Fox Brothers to integrate luxurious, sustainable materials.
A New Era of Exterior Design: The Five Principles
The EXP 15 concept embodies five core design principles. Consequently, these principles will shape future Bentley models.
1. Upright Elegance & The Iconic Grille
First, the concept features a confident, upright front silhouette. The iconic Bentley grille is completely reimagined. For an electric vehicle, it’s no longer just for cooling. Instead, modern light technology transforms it into a piece of digital art.
2. The Endless Bonnet Line
Next, a long, unbroken bonnet line sweeps back to the rear pillar, reflecting a heritage of powerful engines. On the all-electric EXP 15, designers cleverly repurposed this space for elegant storage solutions.
3. Resting Beast Stance
From the side, the EXP 15 projects a “Resting Beast” stance. Its powerful rear haunches express potent energy, while the car maintains a relaxed, horizontal posture with perfect one-third cabin to two-thirds body proportions.
4. Prestigious Shield
Finally, the clean, powerful surface at the car’s rear acts as a “shield.” This surface proudly frames the new Winged B emblem with striking diamond-patterned rear lights.
[Image: Close-up of the Bentley EXP 15’s rear, showing the 3D diamond-patterned taillights and active aerodynamic spoiler.]
A Revolutionary Three-Seat Interior: Bentley EXP 15 The Art of Arrival
The EXP 15’s cabin is just as forward-thinking as its exterior. In fact, Bentley’s designers focused on flexibility, luxury, and a seamless user experience (UX).
The Flexible Three-Seat Layout
Inspired by early Bentleys, the EXP 15 introduces a unique three-seat layout.
- Driver’s Side: A single door opens to the driver’s seat and a cocooning rear seat.
- Passenger Side: Here, twin coach doors open upwards with a section of the panoramic roof. As a result, the passenger seat can swivel 45 degrees outwards, creating an elegant “art of arrival.”
The passenger seat can also move into Co-pilot, Standard, or Relax mode, which creates massive legroom. Additionally, the innovative Concertina Floor Storage system provides accessible space for hand luggage or pets.
Magical Fusion: Blending Physical and Digital
Another key principle is “Magical Fusion.” The full-width dashboard can act as a dynamic digital screen. However, with a simple touch, it can switch off to reveal a seamless wood veneer. At its heart lies the “Mechanical Marvel,” a beautiful clock-like device that blends mechanical beauty with digital function.
“We think people are going to get fed up with a fully digital experience and are pining for physical mechanical elements too. By combining the two, you can get the best of both worlds.”
Robin Page, Bentley Director of Design
Sustainable Luxury: Materials and British Craftsmanship
Ultimately, the EXP 15 champions a new form of sustainable luxury. The designers achieve this through meticulous material selection.
- Pallas Gold Paint: The exterior’s satin finish uses a special pigment that allows safety radar and Lidar to function through it.
- Traditional Textiles: Inside, the team used 100% wool from 250-year-old English weavers Fox Brothers. Similarly, they incorporated fine silk jacquard from Gainsborough, a Royal Warrant holder.
- Modern Finishes: Designers then pair these traditional fabrics with futuristic materials like 3D-printed titanium. This combination creates an “active 3D quilt” effect when illuminated from behind.
Conclusion: The Sophisticated and Sustainable Grand Tourer
In conclusion, the Bentley EXP 15 is more than just a concept. It is a clear statement of intent. It confirms Bentley’s commitment to an all-electric future. Furthermore, it does so without sacrificing the performance and luxury that define the brand. While this isn’t the final 2026 production model, the EXP 15 provides a tantalizing preview of the technology and sustainable philosophy that will power the next generation of Bentley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the Bentley EXP 15 a real car I can buy?
No, the EXP 15 is a design vision concept. Bentley created it to showcase future design directions and will not produce it for sale.
Q2: When is the first Bentley electric car coming out?
Bentley will reveal its first fully electric production car in 2026. The EXP 15 concept offers design hints for this upcoming vehicle.
Q3: What is special about the EXP 15’s interior?
The interior features an innovative three-seat layout with a swiveling passenger seat for easy entry and exit. It also showcases “Magical Fusion,” a concept that blends physical controls with on-demand digital screens.
Q4: How does the EXP 15 honor Bentley’s heritage?
The EXP 15 draws inspiration from the legendary 1930 Bentley Speed Six “Blue Train.” It reflects this heritage in its grand proportions and its focus on effortless, long-distance touring.
