Volkswagen Group’s Bentley Motors launched their electric luxury vehicle called the Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e concept at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show.
The new all-electric vehicle will illustrate Bentley characteristics such as use of high-quality materials inside the cabin and effortless torque while on the move, to go with the rapid inductive charging and advanced on board concierge-style services for an effortless ownership experience.
They say that an electric Bentley would be able to drive between London and Paris or Milan and Monaco on a single charge – which is basically around 456.06 km.
On the insides, the entire central console is hewn from a solid piece of elegantly curved glass encompassing a high-definition OLED screen. All of the principle on board controls are accessible from here, including those for infotainment and HVAC.
Handcrafted cut-glass sections on the steering wheel contain the controls for media, communications, navigation and car set-up. One of the two buttons at the top offer an instant performance boost while the other has the ability to limit speed, in urban areas for example. Whilst, the front passenger will have his or her own control panel on the front fascia with access to social media, email and entertainment.
Fine copper elements around the gear selector, Bentley Dynamic Drive dial and in the door veneer panels are integrated into the cabin to highlight the electric performance potential.
On the exteriors, the iconic Bentley mesh grille features a complex 3D geometry and smoked finish with copper highlights that “electric vehicle” identify of the Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e and while running the ‘6e’ logo illuminates in a vibrant white light.
The exterior design has been supposedly been inspired by contemporary architecture, the natural world and the aerodynamic aircraft fuselages. They combine with the muscular proportions and athletic stance seen through the use of a short front overhang, long bonnet, low grille and wide rear, to exhibit the high-performance intent.
The twin bonnet scoops act as highly effective heat sinks that supply additional cooling to the battery and powertrain, much like in a internal combustion engine. The sleek wing mirrors – which are cameras rather than traditional reflective glass – are again, inspired by the sculptural form of stealth aircrafts.
When rapid inductive charging is not available, EXP 12 Speed 6e can be connected to a mains AC power supply via the auxiliary charging point, subtly concealed behind the rear number plate.
Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said “Bentley is committed to offering an electric model in its future portfolio and we are interested to receive feedback on this concept,” Dürheimer concluded.
Bentley hopes to open discussions with luxury car buyers of the future – millennials, members of Generation C and the rising affluent in developing economies – to understand the future expectations.
The luxury brand’s electric car strategy includes the introduction of PHEV models across the Bentley model range over the next few years, starting with the Bentayga in 2018.
