Bentley Doesn’t Want Its First EV To Be An SUV

Bentley will use Porsche technology for its first all-electric vehicle but doesn’t want it to be an SUV.

During an interview with Auto Express, Bentley design director Stefan Sielaff said a bespoke EV from the British marque is a logical step forward. The body style of this vehicle has yet to be confirmed, however.

“The next step for sure is an electric, unique Bentley that isn’t based on an existing car but a completely fresh and new development, with electric propulsion and obviously different proportions following the function.

“It gives us a great chance to establish a completely new design language for the company,” he said.

The EXP 12 Speed 6e was Bentley’s idea of an electric sports car

Bentley provided the world with a glimpse of its electric future in 2017 through the EXP 12 Speed 6e Concept. Despite the positive reception to the concept, Sielaff doesn’t think a two-door, two-seater makes sense for production.

Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e concept

“It should be a four or five-seater and it should also have the possibility to carry a little bit of luggage, maybe not for five people. I think we need to make sure that this family member is obviously new, and not imitating another concept we have already in the portfolio. But definitely more than two seats; that’s something I am convinced of, ” he said.

“We are still in the phase of trying to define what it could be but nevertheless, I think it should be a vehicle that contains a certain coupe-style or sportivity, and also a certain elegance. I don’t think it should be something that is raised high, like an SUV,” Sielaff said.

A four-door coupe from Bentley makes sense as it could act as a more luxurious alternative to the Porsche Mission E within VW Group’s portfolio. Numerous technologies and components will also be shared between the pair.