Perhaps one of the key strengths of this iconic marque, whilst lesser-known than its beautiful production cars, is to be found in the design portfolio of its past concept cars. It therefore also lies in the unique talents of the Bentley designers to continually innovate and exponentially improve during the design phases in between concept and production.
This was recently highlighted after the Geneva Motor Show. The concept SUV was mooted at the International Motor Show in March and as such the Bentley designers have gone back to the drawing board to ensure that what comes through in execution phase is trademark, and blissfully, Bentley. Despite Bentley’s heritage of producing four-wheel drive cars, the response received by the EXP 9F all-roader was less than lukewarm and as such Bentley has listened to the feedback and withdrawn to further work on the design. Refinement should help to ease the boxlike, heavy facade of the crossover pilot. Whilst traditionalists get used to this idea at all, the EXP 9F should start to move away from its exterior frame criticised for being bulky and uninspired. The interior of the concept however should need little to improve it. Quilted dove-grey leather upholstery, polished warm wood veneers, twin sunroofs, champagne cooler and glass drawer, and tan leather trim all combined to provide an eloquent expression of Bentley luxury, all tailored to fit a sporting lifestyle.
Bentley’s ability to finesse its design concepts should hopefully mean that the eventual car that is available for connoisseurs of this luxury marque is the epitome of refinement. This skill was exhibited after the show as we had the opportunity to review some of its more elegant concept vehicles, of which none are conventionally powered.
The Bentley Speed VI is a prime example of legendary Bentley creations. In tandem with designer Gabriel Tam, the Speed VI echoes with elements of the Bentley Speed 6, a star of the Le Mans circuit in the 1920s. Powered by an electric motor, this concept racer has a 1+1 seating configuration.
Bentley ambition is tamed in the Bora Kim-designed Bentley Jekyll and Hyde concept car. Influenced by the elements, the car morphs between a coupe powered by electricity, solar, and wind energy.
Also keeping sustainable energy sources at the forefront is the TEN11. Designed in conjunction with Mika Heikkinen and EXA, this is a luxury sports car concept. Powered by four in-wheel motors, it also features a bio-diesel engine for purists who do not believe in the sustainability of coal fire-generated electricity, or who prefer a slightly more conventional approach to power.
Given that these exquisite designs did not even make it out of the studio, we can expect to see a redefined SUV of the highest calibre.