New Bentley EXP 15 concept sees brand reinvent the limo

The Bentley EXP 15 has been revealed as a high-riding all-electric concept for the brand’s future limousines that could one day replace the Mulsanne that was dropped indefinitely in 2020.

Measuring 5.4 metres in length, the new Bentley EXP 15 will reportedly go onto influence the inbound all-electric urban SUV that has been designed to sit below the current Bentayga in the line-up when it arrives in 2026.

Said to blend both a traditional limo, SUV and grand tourer, the futuristic EXP 15 concept draws inspiration from some historic Bentleys of the past. Yet, it also ushers in the brand’s next-generation design language that will go on to influence the all-new Mulsanne that’s due in 2030.

Featuring a dramatic upright grille, stretched bonnet and rearward cabin the outlandish proportions are said to reflect the Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman coupe from 1930.

Known as the ‘Blue Train’, the Bentley earned its name after a race with a train from Cannes to Calais that saw the car take victory.

Claimed to embody five design principles that will influence all future Bentleys – Upright Elegance, Iconic Grille, Endless Bonnet Line, Resting Beast and Prestigious Shield – a huge grille remains in place despite the concept featuring a battery-powered powertrain.

Making even more of an impression, the shuttered grille features a backlit panel with a geometrical pattern and an illuminated spline. The grille also features the brand’s new badging that has already had its simpler, more contemporary look previewed.

Other details include ultra-thin lights that make up the headlamps are also employed to frame the grille.

Meanwhile, an advanced aero package includes wheelarch extractors, active rear diffuser and moveable twin spoilers. Beneath the long bonnet is space for luggage, while the at the rear the tailgate lowers to provide seating for two.

Despite its immense size, the EXP 15 only features three doors. The quirk continues inside as the big Bentley houses just three seats, with the front passenger pew removed to provide more legroom.

The rear seat can move forwards to fill the missing space if the driver needs help with directions. It can also be reclined or even provide space for a dog bed. Access to the passenger seat is via a rear-hinged door, with the airline-style seat swivelling 45 degrees to aid access.

Other points of interest from the cabin include a new take on the brand’s Wing Gesture dashboard design, with the cabin incorporating woven silk, 3D printed titanium and new woven metal called Acrylic Couture that creates a 3D graphic element in the dash when illuminated.

Helping aid ease of use are knurled dials (and even a start button), with Bentley still employing physical controls, instead of switching entirely to touchscreens. The old-school feel continues with the infotainment, too. When it’s switched off it reveals a veneered wooden surface beneath it.

Commenting on the wild new concept Bentley chief designer, Robin Page, said: “The beauty of a concept car is not just to position our new design language, but to test where the market’s going. It’s clear that SUVs are a growing segment and we understand the GT market – through four generations of the Continental GT – but the trickiest segment is the sedan, because it’s changing. 

“Some customers want a classic ‘three-box’ sedan shape, others a ‘one-box’ design, and others again something more elevated. So, this was a chance for us to talk to people and get a feeling.”

No details have been released on the all-electric powertrain other than it will provide all-wheel drive and deliver a long range, plus the charging speeds expected of a Bentley.

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