Bentley EV Sedan Flagship Coming Based On The Porsche Mission E

The famed luxury brand understands it needs to ditch its old-world image.

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.

Bentley EV Sedan Flagship Coming Based On The Porsche Mission E

The famed luxury brand understands it needs to ditch its old-world image.

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.

BMW Vision iNext Previews Future Flagship Electric SUV

The production model will arrive in 2021 as BMW's first Level 3 autonomous vehicle.

After being shown to the press on a Boeing 777, the futuristic BMW Vision iNext concept has made its public debut at the 2018 LA Auto Show, previewing “the future of personal mobility.” Essentially, it previews BMW’s upcoming fully electric flagship SUV that will be loaded with autonomous and connected technology. BMW says the Vision iNEXT “represents a building block for the future of the BMW Group, encompassing technology, design and new ways of thinking that are set to filter through across the company and its brands.”

BMW’s i design language is clearly visible on the Vision iNext with its striking lines and sculpted surfaces. Accentuating the striking design is a Liquid Greyrose Copper paint finish, which gradually changes in shade from warm copper to dark rose. At the front is a modern take on the classic BMW four-eyed front end, with slender headlights, cameras replacing the exterior mirrors, and a windshield that merges seamlessly into a large panoramic roof. Like the iX3 concept, there’s also a gigantic kidney grille containing sensors for the autonomous system. At the back are slim rear lights and a racing-inspired illuminated diffuser that enhances the car’s aerodynamics.

The electric powertrain comes with front- and rear-mounted motors along with a battery tray under the floor. BMW claims the Vision iNext will do the 0-62mph sprint in about four seconds and offer a driving range of 380 miles. The production iNext will also be BMW’s first Level 3 autonomous car.

As a result, the interior is more like a living room than a traditional cabin, with a minimalist design that mixes wood, fabric and metal with. BMW calls this concept ShyTech - the idea is to keep technologies out of sight in the background and make them deployable only when required to give the cabin a more homely feel. The front seats are divided by a table-style console, while the rear bench can fit up to four passengers. The BMW iNEXT production model will roll off the assembly line at BMW’s plant in Dingolfing, Germany, in 2021.