Mini Bentley Goes Electric

An Electric Twist

In the world of automobiles, there are always some outliers that capture the imagination, even if for a chuckle. A case in point is the fake Bentley Bentayga that’s surfaced online, merging a distinctive luxury look with a budget-friendly price and a quirky powertrain setup. Manufactured by a smaller company in China, this micro-EV model is available for prices ranging from $2,500 to $3,100, targeting markets where Bentley’s usual fare wouldn’t tread.

Under the Hood

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Beneath its mini-Bentley facade, this car’s engineering is a bit creative. Its propulsion is electric, yet it incorporates a small combustion engine used primarily as a range extender to charge its battery when a plug isn’t in sight. This definitely isn’t what typically comes to mind when thinking about hybrids, but it makes a certain sense for locales with inconsistent charging infrastructure.

Here’s the Look

Visually, the small wannabe Bentayga does its best to emulate its namesake’s imposing front end. It sports a prominent grill and round LED headlights. The facade gives way to a much simpler and smaller frame, more reminiscent of a Smart car than a high-class SUV. The styling gets a little offbeat as the attention moves to the wheels, which are tiny in comparison to the rest of the outer shell.

Driving Dynamics

What about the drive? With the electric motor producing an output of 5 horsepower and a top speed of approximately 28 mph, it slots in around the same performance level as quadricycles like the Citroen Ami. However, its unusual hybrid setup sets it apart. The electric ride is quiet, yet the small petrol engine kicks in with a sputter — more reminiscent of a lawnmower than the whisper-quiet propulsion of luxury electric vehicles.

Against the Competition

Comparatively, when tasked with choosing between this quirky vehicle and something like a moped for short-distance commutes, it’s a toss-up. The vehicle is undeniably a conversation starter and perhaps more about the fun than practicality, but with features like power windows, a digital dashboard, and basic climate control, it certainly offers an intriguing alternative.

The Verdict

Is this little Bentley clone worth the attention? For the price bracket, it provides a unique proposition. It isn’t about luxury or performance akin to its namesake. Instead, it’s a head-turner and an affordable electric experience that could serve as a stepping stone for those wary of diving immediately into traditional EVs or simply in need of an attention-grabbing ride.