BENTLEY EXP 15
A Vision of Timeless Elegance
At Monterey Car Week 2025, Bentley unveiled its breathtaking EXP 15 design vision concept, a five-metre-plus masterpiece that made its debut on the concept lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August.
This striking concept car channels the spirit of the iconic 1930 Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman Coupe, famously known as the “Blue Train”, blending heritage with a bold vision for the future.
Drawing inspiration from the “Blue Train”, which also graced Monterey’s roads and appeared at the Home of Bentley display, the EXP 15 pays homage to Bentley’s storied past. The Blue Train’s legacy of speed and style – famously outpacing Le Train Bleu” from Cannes to Calais in France in 1930 – infuses the concept with a narrative of adventure and prestige. Yet, the EXP 15 is no mere tribute; it reimagines Bentley’s heritage for a modern era, showcasing the brand’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
As Bentley celebrated its past, present, and future at Monterey, the EXP 15 stood out as a testament to the marque’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship, luxury, and innovation.
The EXP 15 captivates with its classic proportions, echoing the “Blue Train’s” timeless aesthetic. Its upright grille, a hallmark of Bentley’s design DNA, commands attention, while the long, flowing bonnet stretches endlessly forward, evoking the grandeur of vintage grand tourers. The rearward cabin, sleek and purposeful, balances elegance with athleticism, hinting at performance capabilities yet to be revealed. Though technical details remain undisclosed, the EXP 15’s form suggests a harmonious blend of power and refinement, potentially hinting at Bentley’s electrified future, and the brand’s first full-electric production car being revealed in 2026.
At the Home of Bentley, adjacent to the Pebble Beach Lodge, visitors were able to explore the craftsmanship behind the EXP 15 and engage with designers in a co-creation space, a nod to Bentley’s bespoke Mulliner division. This interactive hub, alongside displays of the latest fourth-generation models like the Continental GT Speed and Bentayga Speed, underscores Bentley’s commitment to personalized luxury.
The EXP 15, with its exquisite lines and forward-thinking design, signals a future where Bentley continues to elevate grand touring. For motoring enthusiasts, it’s a tantalizing glimpse of Crewe’s next chapter – where heritage meets innovation in spectacular fashion.
VOLVO’S ELECTRIC SURGE
Powering South Africa’s Future
Volvo Car South Africa is charging into the future with an ambitious plan to launch four electrified models in short order. With the rugged EX30 Cross Country, refreshed XC60 and XC90 SUVs, and the luxurious all-electric ES90 sedan on the horizon, Volvo is poised to blend Scandinavian innovation with South African spirit.
The rollout began last month with the EX30 Cross Country, a rugged evolution of the award-winning EX30 electric SUV. Building on the Cross Country legacy – first seen in the XC70 – this model combines Volvo’s hallmarks of comfort, safety, and practicality with an adventurous edge. With increased ground clearance, distinctive styling, and boasting a WLTP-estimated range of 427 km, the EX30 Cross Country invites drivers to venture beyond urban limits, offering emissions-free weekend escapes into South Africa’s diverse landscapes.
Following closely in spring, the refreshed XC60 and XC90 SUVs will elevate Volvo’s best-selling models. Both feature sleek exterior updates – new grilles, redesigned fascias, and updated wheels – paired with refined interiors. A standout addition is the 11.2” touchscreen, now with sharper pixel density and Volvo’s latest user interface, first debuted in the EX30. Catering to varied driving needs while advancing Volvo’s electrification goals, both models will also be offered with a choice of mild-hybrid (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid (Recharge) powertrains.
The star of the lineup, arriving in early 2026, is the all-electric ES90 sedan that merges sedan elegance, fastback versatility, and SUV spaciousness. With a remarkable WLTP-estimated range of 700 km, cutting-edge safety systems, and next-generation driver understanding technology, it underscores Volvo’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
Opel MOKKA GSE
A High-Voltage Promise
Opel is set to electrify the compact crossover segment with the announcement of the Mokka GSE, its fastest all-electric model, now confirmed for serial production. While its availability in South Africa remains unconfirmed, this rally-inspired machine is poised to deliver motorsport thrills to everyday driving. Boasting a 207 kW electric motor and 345 Nm of torque, the Mokka GSE blasts from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 200 km/h. Its 54 kWh lithium-ion battery offers a WLTP-estimated range of 336 km, with Sport, Normal, and Eco modes balancing performance and efficiency.
Weighing under 1.6 tonnes, the Mokka GSE features rally-derived technology, including a Torsen limited-slip differential, double hydraulic shock absorbers, and sport-tuned steering and brakes. Its bold design shines with 20” alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, yellow GSE brake callipers, and distinctive GSE lettering. Inside, Alcantara sports seats with yellow stitching, a flattened steering wheel, and a 10” digital display with performance metrics like G-forces and battery data create a driver-focused cockpit.
Watch this space for further information on the world premiere and market launch of this new electric compact from Opel.
