Bentley followed the stunningly popular EXP 10 Speed 6 concept of two years ago with the new EXP 12 Speed 6e concept at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, bringing us still closer to the final form of the eventual new Continental GT.
Bentley used the concept to also preview the future of its propulsion systems. The Speed 6e is a fully electric car that delivers the performance expected of a Continental GT while also providing the serene atmosphere expected of a Bentley thanks to the absence of internal combustion.
The goal is to provide a silent steed with the endurance to cruise between London and Paris or between Monaco and Milan on a single charge, so drivers aren’t bothered with recharging during the sort of trip a Bentley owner might make.
When it does need a charge, Bentley aims to make that as painless as possible, with wireless inductive charging built into the Speed 6e concept.
Copper detailing throughout the Speed 6e is a reference to the conductor used in electric wiring as a tip off of the car’s power source.
“The EXP 12 Speed 6e is a concept to show that Bentley is defining electric motoring in the luxury sector, with the appropriate technology, high quality materials and refinement levels you’d expect from a true Bentley,” noted Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors. “This concept enables us to engage with luxury customers and gather feedback on our approach.”