Back in 1900, Charles S. Rolls, co-founder of Rolls-Royce, discussed the benefits of electric cars: they are silent, clean, and free from vibration. Now, with the debut of the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre, the premier fully electric Rolls-Royce, the luxury automaker is establishing its presence in the battery-electric-vehicle (BEV) market. This expansive and extravagant coupe fully embraces the grand touring concept with its expansive proportions and lavish design.
The Spectre’s impressive length of more than 215 inches unmistakably signifies luxury and grace. Its custom design encourages two-toning, adding to its refined appearance. The absence of body cutlines and the omission of a B-pillar bestow the car with a sleek and visually appealing contour. Unlike most EVs that are reducing the size of their grilles, Rolls-Royce has included its widest grille to date.
The roomy dimensions of the Spectre provide ample space for four occupants. Whether it’s the handcrafted interiors or the distinct furnishings, each Rolls-Royce model is unique and tailored to the preferences of its owner. The interior of the Spectre radiates opulence, with features such as seatbacks enveloped in a single piece of leather, the lack of plastic components, and the inclusion of a Starlight headliner that replicates the night sky. Alternatively, customers can choose the sophisticated Canadel paneling crafted from exotic woods.
The cabin also showcases clever amenities like umbrellas that fit within the doors, a driver’s door that automatically closes when the brake pedal is pressed, and luxurious lamb’s wool floor coverings.
When it comes to performance, the Spectre delivers in spades. It is propelled by two electric motors and a single-speed transmission, generating a combined 584 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. With standard all-wheel drive, the Spectre can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. With an expected range of 264 miles and the average annual mileage of Rolls-Royce owners being 3,200 miles, the range should be more than adequate.
The Spectre is equipped with a 102-kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged from 10% to 80% in 34 minutes using a fast charger. It can achieve a 62-mile charge in approximately nine minutes.
In terms of driving assistance, the Spectre provides numerous automated systems but does not feature a semi-autonomous driving function. Rolls-Royce aims to refine the technology before offering it to customers.
Experiencing the Spectre behind the wheel reveals its true essence as a Rolls-Royce with electric capabilities. It delivers a serene and noiseless drive with swift torque and seamless acceleration. The suspension system, rooted in the Ghost’s Planar Suspension System, offers a plush ride, and the anti-roll bars ensure stability and comfort during turns.
Timeless elements can still be observed in the Spectre, including refined chrome pulls for vent control, a slender steering wheel, and a power reserve gauge that displays the remaining power while accelerating.
Although the trunk may not be excessively spacious with a capacity of 13 cubic feet, the Spectre is an opulent grand touring coupe. Rolls-Royce owners typically have assistance for transporting their belongings.
The Spectre embodies nimbleness, refinement, and elegance, setting the stage for future Rolls-Royce electric vehicles. If this is just the beginning, we eagerly anticipate what lies ahead.
Image Source: Mike Mareen / Shutterstock
