Bentley Unveils EXP 15: A Bold Glimpse Into the Future of Design
Bentley Motors has unveiled its latest concept car, the EXP 15, inside its new design studio in Crewe. The concept, while never intended for production, illustrates the company’s forward-thinking approach and pays homage to its Grand Tourer legacy. Drawing influence from the iconic 1930 Bentley Speed Six “Blue Train,” the EXP 15 presents a fresh design language aimed at shaping Bentley’s first all-electric production car, scheduled for 2026.
The exterior model, over five meters long, features defining traits such as a vertical upright grille, a seemingly endless bonnet, and a rearward cabin. These nods to the past are combined with futuristic surfacing, high-tech lighting, and active aerodynamics. For instance, slim LED headlamps wrap around the car’s edges, while active spoilers and a diffuser enhance performance and visual drama.
Interior design breaks conventional norms with a unique three-seat, three-door layout, including a rotating passenger seat that simplifies entry and exit. This configuration increases comfort and utility, allowing storage of pets or luggage in tailored compartments. The boot, doubling as a tailgate lounge with deployable seating and a chilled drinks compartment, also reinforces Bentley’s focus on luxury lifestyle experiences.
The use of advanced materials elevates the interior’s design. Wool from Fox Brothers, 3D-printed titanium, and fabrics from traditional British mills merge with technical finishes like “Acrylic Couture” to deliver a sensory-rich environment. By doing so, Bentley successfully fuses tradition with innovation. Robin Page, Bentley’s Director of Design, emphasized the concept’s role: “The beauty of a concept car is not just to position our new design language, but to test where the market’s going.”
Design Language Rooted in Philosophy
EXP 15 articulates five exterior design principles. The first, ‘Upright Elegance’, ensures a vertically poised stance. The second, ‘Iconic Grille’, preserves a Bentley signature even in the electric era, evolving into a light-driven feature. ‘Endless Bonnet Line’, the third principle, highlights long proportions reminiscent of legacy Bentleys but now used for innovative front storage.
‘Resting Beast’, the fourth, evokes muscular rear haunches, drawing comparison to a crouched big cat. This posture combines power and calm. Finally, the ‘Prestigious Shield’ creates a sculpted rear end that integrates heritage-inspired tailgate space and a redesigned Winged B emblem.
Surface treatments further express the car’s presence. Terms like ‘Monolithic Presence’ and ‘Carved Precision’ describe the stone-like solidity and refined contours that communicate strength and elegance. Meanwhile, elements like 3D diamond-pattern lighting and aero-efficient detailing keep the car grounded in modernity.
Virtual reality has also shaped how customers experience the EXP 15. VR technology allows interactive customization and showcases Bentley’s vision for adaptable digital interfaces. Interior features such as the ‘Mechanical Marvel’ a multi-functional analog-digital centerpiece highlight Bentley’s commitment to combining digital convenience with mechanical charm. Page reflected: “By combining the two, you can get the best of both worlds. It’s almost like wearing a beautiful mechanical watch on one wrist and a digital watch on the other.”
Interiors That Cocoon, Adapt, and Delight
EXP 15’s interior adheres to five distinct design philosophies. ‘Wing Gesture’ defines the dashboard shape, echoing Bentley’s emblem. ‘Bold Gravitas’ emphasizes large-scale use of authentic materials like wood and metal, giving a tactile sense of permanence. The third, ‘Cocooning Haven’, ensures both privacy and comfort, particularly through canopy-style rear seat enclosures.
‘Iconic Details’ brings forward hallmarks such as knurled switchgear and diamond quilting, reinterpreted with future-facing techniques. ‘Magical Fusion’, the newest philosophy, introduces on-demand technology that can seamlessly disappear when not needed. This includes a dashboard that toggles between touchscreen and wood veneer, depending on driver preference or mood.
Material sourcing plays a vital role in crafting the cabin experience. The use of jacquard silk from Gainsborough and high-tech illuminated mesh exemplifies Bentley’s commitment to heritage and sustainability. These textures, especially when backlit and cut into quilt patterns, create what the brand terms an “active 3D quilt.” Similarly, titanium components, 3D printed for precision and sustainability, contribute to both aesthetics and environmental responsibility.
The car’s exterior finish in ‘Pallas Gold’ enhances visual sophistication while integrating safety functions like Lidar compatibility. This futuristic shade incorporates ultra-thin aluminum pigments that maintain radar transparency perfect for an electric vehicle built with autonomous features in mind.
The EXP 15’s powertrain remains unspecified but is expected to feature all-wheel drive and fast-charging capabilities. However, it’s not a preview of the production EV expected in 2026. Instead, EXP 15 aims to stretch creative boundaries, merging design, craftsmanship, and innovation into a fully electric grand tourer unlike anything before.
