CONCEPT classic the Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 has hit the gold standard in the transportation category of one of the world's leading design competitions.

The German Design Awards is recognised as one of the most highly respected competitions of its kind and is presided over by a panel of international experts.

They picked the EXP 10 Speed 6 for the gold award due to its timeless style, smart use of new materials and aesthetic dynamism.

Panel judge Johannes Barckmann said: "The designers of the EXP 10 Speed 6 achieved a fantastic reinterpretation of the British legend.

"This is particularly apparent when looking at the interior. The door panels are not covered with leather, but instead with high-quality wood.

"The exterior inspires with a progressive, elegant design vocabulary that transports the classic car into the future.

"EXP 10 Speed 6 is an extraordinarily beautiful automobile that perfectly combines aesthetics and precision - and is unmistakably a Bentley. It couldn't be done better."

The EXP 10 Speed 6 is an interpretation of a two-seater supersports car, showcasing the future direction of luxury and performance using top notch materials and advanced hybrid technology.

Bentley's head of exterior and advanced design Sangyup Lee added: "EXP 10 Speed 6 dominated the conversation at Geneva earlier this year, and is one of the most talked about concept cars of recent times.

"Our progressive and innovative design - while retaining a classic British look - is also thoroughly modern and dynamic."

The Bentley Flying Spur and Continental GT Speed - both refreshed in 2015 with a complement of new interior features and exterior styling cues - also received special mentions from the German Design Awards judging panels.