In a perfect blend of heritage and innovation, the legendary Rolls-Royce unveils its first zero-emission creation, the Spectre. The Goodwood manufacturer, absolute symbol of automotive luxury since 1904, is writing a new chapter in its history by marrying artisanal excellence from its origins to electric propulsion.
This metamorphosis of a brand that has built its legend on exceptional thermal engines (V8 until 2020 and 6.75 L V12), designed to be as quiet as they are powerful, demonstrates that the Rolls-Royce DNA is no longer necessarily linked to the type of engine.
Power controlled in velvet
Under its very elegant bodywork, the Specter’s two electric motors deploy their strength with the delicacy that we know from the brand. There is no question of offering a sports car, that has never been Rolls-Royce’s proposal. Their cars were never designed to be lowered to the exercise of 0 to 100as do most manufacturers of powerful cars like Tesla with its Model S Plaid.
The brand has always focused on luxury, comfort and refined driving and raw performance, although the latter is definitely present in the case of the Spectre. 577 horsepower and an impressive 900 Nm of torque. This is more than enough for this gigantic sedan of almost three tonnes, which practically defies the laws of gravity by reaching 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds.
The four-wheel steering transforms itimposing automobile car almost 5.50 m long into a surprisingly agile limousine, particularly useful in restricted urban spaces.
An extremely refined interior
The Specter interior embodies modern British excellence and remains true to Royce’s history. From the incomparably soft lambswool carpets to the polished metal controls and walnut woodwork, every detail demonstrates a concern for absolute perfection. The headliner dotted with illuminated stars, the massaging seats and the custom 16-speaker audio system make the Specter a real living room on wheels.
Latest generation infotainment system, on-board AI, applications customizable according to the customer’s wishes, customizable ambient lighting, in short, it lacks nothing… or almost. You might be surprised by the absence of certain features like BMW’s Hands-Free Driving Assistance. Because yes, Rolls-Royce has belonged to BMW since 2003, after the brand briefly spent a few years in the hands of the Volkswagen group.
This luxury debauchery comes at a high price: count on 420,000 dollars minimum. Personalization, the cornerstone of Rolls-Royce, allows it to sell its vehicles even more expensive thanks to certain options. For example, some body colors sell for more than $13,000.
The Spectrum is therefore the first representative of a new lineage for Rolls-Roycewhich plans an electric SUV (sniff!) for 2027, before a complete electrification of its range in 2030. While some wealthy fans of the manufacturer may not be convinced by this electric version, Rolls-Royce could not infinitely slip through the cracks of the electric transition. Finally, the abandonment of the thermal engine, and therefore of noise, corresponds perfectly to the philosophy of the brand, which has always sought to produce the quietest vehicles possible.
- Rolls-Royce launches the Spectre, its very first electric car.
- With its 577 horsepower and an interior of exceptional refinement, the Specter embodies modern British luxury.
- The Specter marks the start of the full electrification of the Rolls-Royce range by 2030.
