In recent years, Rolls-Royce has launched a series of Black Badge models aimed at updating the stalwart luxury brand’s image with a more youthful and sporty demeanor and a darker color palette. Now the first electric Rolls-Royce—the Spectre coupe—is getting the Black Badge treatment.
Rolls claims it’s the most powerful production car it’s ever sold—gasoline or electric. That’s thanks to a retuned version of the Spectre’s dual-motor powertrain, which is now rated at 659 hp and 792 lb-ft of torque. Those are increases of 75 hp and 128 lb-ft over the standard Spectre.
Full power is unlocked via Infinity Mode, which also sharpens accelerator response, but Rolls-Royce also created a Spirited Mode launch mode that allows the Spectre Black Badge to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds, according to the automaker.
Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge
Spirited Mode is activated by fully depressing the accelerator and brake pedals, then releasing the brake, making it somewhat like the launch modes available in other high-power EVs. Such a feature might seem a bit out of character for the stately Rolls brand, but the automaker claims that a review of anonymized data voluntary provided by current Spectre owners showed a desire for such a feature, impart because drivers tended to use max power mainly in short bursts.
Other mechanical changes include retuned steering with a heavier feel, and suspension that aims for better body control and reduced squat under acceleration. It’s unclear how these changes will affect EPA range, which currently sits at 291 miles. That’s achieved with a 102-kwh battery pack, making the Spectre surprisingly efficient for a gilded luxury car—making 260 EPA-rated miles out of 102 kwh.
The Black Badge treatment also brings darkened chrome trim and 23-inch wheels on the outside, which in the press photos is matched by brooding Vapour Violet paint. Customers will have access to the typical large catalog of paint options, though, and even multiple colors for the car’s illuminated grille.
Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge
Inside, an elaborate interior motif consisting of 5,500 individual lighting elements is sprinkled across the dashboard and door panels, set against a piano black backdrop to give the impression of a night sky. It’s paired with what Rolls-Royce calls Technical Fibre, comprised of woven carbon fiber and metal over a wood base.
Such decadence is currently rare among EVs, but obligatory for a Rolls-Royce. The Spectre likely won’t be the ultra-luxury brand’s only electric model for long, as Rolls is also reportedly planning an electric SUV and sedan.
