According to Evo, Bentley has begun initial design and development work on an all-new four-door coupe EV flagship based on the same platform underpinning the 2019 Porsche Mission E. No one should be surprised, especially since Bentley wants to go beyond its “old-world image.” It’s also very helpful being part of the Volkswagen Group, which also includes Porsche. Making further use of that large car EV platform is simply another way the German automaker can (hopefully) earn even greater returns on a very pricey investment.
Bentley has already gone on record it will offer electrified versions of its entire lineup by 2025, but this new EV flagship is in addition to that. No specific date was give regarding its potential launch. The British automaker understands the necessity to reposition itself as both a luxury and a technology brand going forward. There was some early discussion about this new EV being an SUV, but the idea was quickly shot down. Auto Express also recently spoke with Bentley Design Director Stefan Sielaff, the apparent source of the EV sedan’s existence, stated that 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.”
Or, more simply, a sexy, low-slung four-door coupe is the way to go. It’s also a possibility this EV could become a two-door coupe instead, but the SUV option is clearly out. Although the Mission E platform and other essential components are available to Bentley, there’s a slight problem Sielaff and his team will need to figure out: proportions. Bentleys typically have a long dash-to-axle ratio and a big and bold grille, two elements that won’t be easy to install on the Mission E platform. But hey, there’s nothing wrong with a design challenge with potentially very creative solutions.
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