New Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 concept previews two-seat sports car

Manufacturers are increasingly aware that new models that stretch their core offering need to be grounded in history to appeal to buyers who want cars to have an authenticity about them. Rolls-Royce, for instance, is highlighting its history in off-road adventures in the build-up to the launch of its 4x4.

Overall, the design of the EXP 10 Speed 6 is influenced by the aerodynamic shapes of aircraft fuselage and wings, says Bentley. The short front overhang, long bonnet, low grille and wide rear are designed to convey the car’s performance potential.

Notably, the EXP 10 Speed 6 is also being used to test the reaction to themes that reassess many traditional Bentley elements. The styling includes a new interpretation of the classic Bentley front grille and headlight arrangement.

The concept also showcases new production techniques, such as 3D metal printing, apparent in areas such as the grille mesh, exhausts, door handles and side vents.

The front grille mesh, for instance, is manufactured with varying depths for a more three-dimensional look than that of the current traditional mesh, which is made from a flat plane of latticework. Likewise, the headlight glass is textured to imitate the look of the quilted leather inside the car. In part, the concept is testing customer reaction to the idea of using machined parts as well as handcrafted ones.

Similar techniques are showcased inside the car, most strikingly on the wooden section on the doors. These feature a quilted pattern that is milled directly onto the cherry wood section, with each diamond shape finished with a copper centre. Bentley has also said that 3D printing is likely to be used to produce some of the high-quality components and controls in the cabin.

A 12.0in curved touchscreen also highlights a potential future integration of technology in Bentleys, as well as a proposed new dashboard layout.

Underlining that a Bentley sports car is still likely to have GT capabilities, there is space behind the seats for a bespoke four-piece luggage set.

There is also the chance of a racing variant, with a spokesman saying it would make a "much better racing car" than the current car. It has been created with motorsport in mind, with the suspension pick up points and other elements specially designed.

Bentley’s Crewe facility has recently been upgraded and enlarged, and Dürheimer is said to be planning substantial growth at the firm. He has previously talked about launching a saloon between the Continental Flying Spur and Mulsanne, and there have been suggestions of a more compact SUV than the full-sized Bentayga, which is due to go on sale next year. Production numbers for the finished EXP 10 Speed 6 would be around the same level as those of the Continental GT, and it is expected to go on sale in approximately three years' time, suggesting a 2018 launch date.

Bentley sold a little more than 10,000 cars in 2013, and Dürheimer has indicated a desire to raise that to 20,000 sales per year by 2020.