Hot or not? Here's what designer Frank Stephenson thinks of the Bentley EXP 15 concept

Frank Stephenson is a car designer with more hits than the Beatles, including the Escort RS Cossie, first BMW Mini, Maser MC12, numerous Ferraris and the McLaren P1. These days he runs his own consultancy – Frank Stephenson Design. Here he shares his views on Bentley's EXP 15 concept with Top Gear.

After Jaguar's controversial Type 00, Bentley has followed suit with a divisive concept of its own.

Starting at the front, the gargantuan grille gives recent BMWs a run for their money. And annihilates them. Design over purpose like this is a surefire way to create a short-lived design feature, especially when it’s meant for a futuristic electric car. The front lighting signature and headlight design regrettably fall prey to the boring trend of generic strip lighting. Why lose Bentley’s own and strong round headlight identity?

In the side view, the EXP 15 has a slightly conflicted stance: undynamic and upright at the front, but poised to launch from the power captured in its rear haunch. It doesn’t know whether it’s coming or going.

The characteristic Bentley shoulder core line running from front to back could’ve been raised slightly higher so as to run uninterrupted over the front wheel area. And with a more upward angled shoulder, the perception of vehicle width and strength would’ve increased.

The wheel design looks purposeful in terms of finding aerodynamic optimisation but an even number of spokes always kills the rolling dynamic impression of a wheel, big mistake.

It’s brave, but as Spock would have said, “It’s a Bentley, Jim, but not as we know it.” 

Generic and un-Bentley tail light signature... 

Front too vertical. Shoulder line could run through better. Beautifully surfaced side section. Great graphic trick to lower the visual height. Angled C-pillar saves the otherwise undynamic stance. Great hips. Static looking eight spoke design wheels. Great evolution of the Blue Train silhouette. 

Beautifully detailed grille, but too massive. Doesn't project the Bentley look... 

World class execution of luxury interior design. Have pet, will travel?

Verdict: NOT