Bentley Motors has unveiled its EXP 15 concept, a digital project that captures both the spirit of the brand’s Grand Tourer roots while also pushing towards a future defined by sustainability, additive manufacturing, and electrification. The company recently revealed the newly opened design studio which, although not intended for production, lays out a bold foundation for Bentley’s all-new electric model expected in 2016.
The EXP 15 blends both the company’s past with tomorrow’s technology, and serves as a way to engage with its customers in a more personalized way. According to Bentley’s Director of Design, Robin Page, “SUVs are clearly growing in popularity, and while we know the GT market well through four generations of the Continental GT, sedans are evolving. Some customers prefer classic three-box shapes, others lean toward one-box designs, and some seek something more elevated. This concept allowed us to engage with customers and better understand their preferences.”
The interior design of EXP 15 incorporates both storage and luxury.
The exterior design of the EXP 15 is inspired by Bentley’s design heritage and borrows its proportions from the 1930 Speed Six. Particularly, the design features a rear-set cabin with an elongated bonnet with integrated storage and rear haunches. The front includes an upright grille with digital detailing, flanked by ultra-slim vertical headlights. A central light spine is positioned beneath the iconic Winged B emblem and runs throughout the grille with a horizontal diamond pattern. The rear of the design includes a clear surface, which Bentley calls the “Prestigious Shield,” which then merges with the tailgate of the vehicle.
In the interior, the EXP 15 features a wing-shaped dashboard with physical controls and upholstered seats that work in tandem with the digital displays. Virtual reality software enables customers to alter the interior digitally, allowing Bentley to gather insights from consumers while providing a personalized design experience. The vehicle features a three-door and three-seat layout that has specially designed space for storage and pets! When parked, the trunk can be reconfigured into additional seating, offering a lifestyle-focused feature within the concept.
Bentley sought to combine both practicality with inclusion of space for pets in the EXP 15
One of the most striking elements of the EXP 15 is the usage of additive manufacturing with the interior’s 3D printed titanium parts. Being both lightweight and structurally defined, they are paired with 100 percent wool textiles. This combination of natural materials and digitally fabricated elements showcases Bentley’s commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. The utilization of 3D printing allows for reduced material waste and overall design freedom for both the consumer and the manufacturer.
Bentley’s approach mirrors a broader trend we see within the automotive sector. McLaren recently partnered with Divergent Technologies for the development of 3D printed parts for the W1 hybrid supercar. 3D printed components within vehicles allow for greater durability, aerodynamic efficiency, and optimized weight distribution. These collaborations within the automotive sector showcase how additive manufacturing continues to reshape performance engineering.
The EXP 15 incorporates a central light spine beneath the iconic Winged B emblem
For Bentley Motors, the EXP 15 serves more than just a concept car, but rather a statement showcasing how traditional luxury can be complemented through digital tools and 3D printing. While the production model set for 2026 may be altered as the car is still in development, the spirit and technologies used already are guiding the next generation of Bentley design.
If your interested more in the EXP 15 concept, you can learn more HERE. What do you think about the EXP 15? How do you see additive manufacturing playing a larger role in the automotive industry? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn and Facebook pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox. You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel. If you are interested in more 3D printing news in the automotive and transportation sector, visit our dedicated page HERE.
*All Photo Credits: Bentley