Yes, it’s fascinating to see how far the automotive industry has come since Charles Rolls’ initial remarks about electric cars over a century ago. Today, electric cars are gaining popularity for their environmental benefits, efficiency, and lower operating costs. Rolls-Royce’s decision to introduce its first EV, the SPECTRE, is an indication of the brand’s commitment to embracing the electric revolution and reducing its carbon footprint.
One could argue the marque’s electric aspirations date back to 1900, when Rolls-Royce founder told the Motor Car Journal, a leading publication of the day, “The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration, and they should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged. But for now, I do not anticipate that they will be very serviceable – at least for many years to come.”
Fast forward to today and we see a move by Rolls-Royce to electrify all its models by 2030.
The 2024 SPECTRE is the world’s first ultra-luxury coupe and shares the same platform as the Phantom sedan and Cullinan SUV. However, what sets the SPECTRE apart is its electric powertrain with two motors that generate an impressive 577 hp, 900 Nm and an estimated electric range of 520 km.
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The first cars are scheduled for delivery to the most decerning Rolls-Royce customers in Q4 of 2023. But before that, the chaps in Goodwood are putting the SPECTRE through its paces. Currently, rigorous testing is being conducted to ensure the car’s reliability and durability. Rolls-Royce says it will match the intensity of around 400 years of normal use. The tests include putting the car through some of the most demanding geographies in the world, covering a total of 2.5 million km, the same as circling the globe 62 times over.
Testing began back in the winter of 2021 at a special facility in Arjeplog, Sweden, right around the corner from the Arctic Circle. At the height of winter, temperatures drop down to -40°C. The cars are tested for handling and durability, making sure all the components pass with flying colors. In the summer of 2022, the SPECTRE was taken to what can only be referred to as its natural habitat, the French Riviera and the Côte d’Azur. There the cars were put through hot and humid temperatures, as well as racing conditions at the famous, now BMW-owned Autodrome de Miramas, where once upon a time the French Grand Prix was held.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and the man largely credited for bringing the brand into the 21st century said; “SPECTRE has already secured its place as the most anticipated Rolls-Royce in history. This remarkable and transformative motor car represents the beginning of the marque’s bold electric era as well as our unquestionable technological leadership of the super-luxury space.”
Although Rolls-Royce is seldom concerned about acceleration and usually never brags about it, official figures for the SPECTRE suggest a 0-100 time of around 4.6 seconds. But the SPECTRE is more than just a high-performance machine, with technology features that bolster the driving experience and the comfort of passengers. In addition, the SPECTRE features an advanced suspension system that automatically adjusts to provide the smoothest ride possible. This system uses a network of sensors to analyze road conditions and adjust the suspension accordingly, making sure the smoothest of rides, ensuring the sensation of a “magic carpet ride” continues in the ultra-luxury EV.
While we have not had the pleasure of driving this masterpiece, one can only assume it matches or even surpasses its spiritual predecessor: The Phantom Coupe.
Overall, the Rolls-Royce SPECTRE is expected to be a truly exceptional vehicle, like every single Rolls-Royce that has been delivered to date. We are certain that the SPECTRE, whether used as a daily drive or a high-performance ultra-luxurious sports car, will deliver an unparalleled experience that’s sure to impress even the most discerning of Rolls-Royce aficionados.
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