Someone Spent $3,000 on This Imitation Bentley EV That Fuels with Gas | Carscoops

      This micro EV from China resembles the Bentley Bentayga, but its small wheels and awkward proportions reveal its true nature immediately.

      Powered by an electric motor combined with a small range-extender engine, this imitation Bentley uses a noisy combustion engine to charge the battery when nearby charging options are limited.

      Produced in China, it is available online with prices between $2,500 and $3,100.

      While major Chinese automakers are advancing electric vehicle technology with innovative features and attractive prices, a different category of smaller manufacturers is still imitating luxury brands. Among the increasing number of micro-EVs that directly draw inspiration from brands like Bugatti, Porsche, Aston Martin, and Maserati, one particularly small model stands out. This compact vehicle not only imitates a Bentley but also has an unexpected surprise: a range-extender powertrain.

      At the front, it tries to replicate a mini Bentley Bentayga, showcasing a prominent mesh grille and a pair of round LED headlights. However, moving to the side or rear reveals a shape more reminiscent of a Smart car. The tiny wheels and skewed proportions make it clear what it truly is, though it remains amusing nonetheless.

      What elevates this vehicle beyond a mere visual joke is its small combustion engine that resembles something borrowed from garden equipment. In a video shared on Instagram by yaypan_lik, it can be seen sputtering into action, producing more noise than one might expect from a vehicle of this size. It’s important to note that the engine is not connected to the wheels; it functions solely as a generator for the battery.

      This configuration means the car runs mainly on a fully electric motor, which is significantly quieter and likely more efficient than the gas engine. Such a hybrid system is practical in areas with limited EV charging options. The video was fittingly filmed in Uzbekistan, where access to charging might be less dependable.

      A Mini Bentley, A Micro Price Tag

      The Instagram post indicated that the car is priced at around $3,100 and seemingly sold, although some commenters speculated it may have sold for less. Further investigation shows the faux Bentley is manufactured by Weihai Yilin New Energy Technology in Shandong, China. Online sources list prices from $2,500 to $3,100, aligning with the price mentioned in the Uzbekistan post.

      With a length of 3,850 mm (151.6 inches), this Bentley lookalike is technically a five-seater, although fitting that many adults would likely require some clever spatial maneuvering. Features include a digital cockpit, LED lights, a roof-mounted fan, heating, power windows, alloy wheels, and disc brakes at all four wheels. There’s also a variant with a slightly modified exterior that mimics the front design of the Bentley Mulliner Batur, aimed at those desiring an extra hint of fake exclusivity.

      The electric motor has a power rating of 5 horsepower (3.5 kW) and can reach a top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph), placing it in the same performance category as heavier quadricycles like the Citroen Ami. Details regarding the combustion engine, battery size, or range are not provided, but a complete charge reportedly takes between 8 to 10 hours.

      Would You Buy It?

      Clearly, this isn’t a real Bentley. It doesn’t drive like one, it doesn’t feel like one, and it surely lacks the same prestige. Nevertheless, for a few thousand dollars, it’s an oddball and undeniably entertaining way to get around. The real question is whether you'd prefer this over a moped. If your answer is yes, then perhaps this tiny replica of a Bentley is doing something right.