Rolls-Royce Spectre Review: Specs, Performance, Design & More

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has always been known for its top-of-the-line cars filled with luxury and opulence. In view of increasing environmental concerns, the brand announced the development of a new production electric vehicle in 2021 — the Rolls-Royce Spectre.

It is the first electric vehicle manufactured by Rolls-Royce and it still brings you endless luxury and extravagance while being environment friendly. The Rolls-Royce Spectre represents a pivotal shift in the automotive industry, so is it the future? Let’s find out.

Futuristic Appearance

From the moment you lay eyes on the Rolls-Royce Spectre, it is clear that this vehicle is an outstanding work of art. The exterior exudes the elegance that Rolls-Royce’s cars are known for, yet there are futuristic elements that set it apart.

Buyers wanted the first electric Rolls-Royce to look a little futuristic while still featuring design elements from the current crop of luxury barges produced by the luxury marque. That’s exactly what the designers have achieved with the Spectre. Hence you’d find some design similarities to the Rolls-Royce Wraith and then some resemblances to the Rolls-Royce Ghost.

Design & Styling

It still has the size and heft of a Rolls-Royce, but since it is an EV, aerodynamic efficiency is prioritised. For example, it does look like the front end features the signature Rolls-Royce chrome grille. But in reality, it is closed off through a panel at the back to aid aerodynamics. The LED headlamps and DRLs add to the premium feel.

Even the Spirit Of Ecstacy – the iconic bonnet mascot on all Rolls-Royce cars – has been redesigned slightly to increase aerodynamic efficiency. It’s all in the little details. Move over to the side and you’ll find fancy wheels! However, these wheels are more than just about enhancing styling. The cuts and grooves in them make the car a bit more aerodynamic.

The chunky door handles and window trim are finished in chrome while the roof slopes down towards the rear end. At the rear, the design is kept simple and classy. And since it is an EV, there are no dual exhaust outlets.

Interior

Entering the Rolls-Royce Spectre is as big an occasion as going for a drive in one, thanks to the motorised suicide doors. Step inside, and you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of absolute luxury.

As with all Rolls-Royce cars, the customisation options are endless. This particular car listed on DubiCars by Levant Auto features premium piano black panels, luxurious leather decked in a unique shade of blue, and lots of chrome.

The star-studded headliner is a signature Rolls-Royce element. However, the Spectre also features the same treatment in the door trim — a feature exclusive to the EV for now. Instrumentation is handled by a 12.3-inch display while infotainment is taken care of by a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment unit.

While Rolls-Royce’s cars are known for their rear seat luxury, the Spectre is a two-door coupe and hence the front seats are the place to be. However, two adults who are not very tall can be comfortably seated at the rear. Despite the Spectre not having a driveshaft, it still has a massive transmission tunnel.

Electric Drivetrain & Performance

It was in 1936 that the first-ever V12-engined Rolls-Royce car was launched — the Rolls-Royce Phantom III. Production ended in 1939 and the next Rolls-Royce car to feature a V12 engine was the Silver Seraph, introduced in 1998. Since then, the V12 engine has been a staple, found under the bonnet of all Rolls-Royce production models, until the arrival of the Spectre.

The Spectre features two electric motors that together produce 577hp and 900Nm. They draw power from a 102kWh battery pack derived from the BMW i7. Performance is brisk. It accelerates from 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds and will go on to a top speed of 250km/h.

Rolls-Royce claims the Spectre has a claimed range of 428 kilometres. This is fantastic performance given that the luxury coupe weighs nearly three tonnes! The advanced suspension system, coupled with precise handling, ensures that the Spectre delivers the signature ‘magic carpet ride’ that Rolls-Royce is renowned for.

Verdict

The Spectre is a statement of intent from Rolls-Royce. It signals the brand’s commitment to leading the luxury automotive sector into a sustainable future. As the market for electric vehicles continues to grow, the Spectre is poised to set new benchmarks for what an electric luxury car can be.

It retains the touch, feel, and character of current Rolls-Royce models. However, there’s more to it under the skin. The powertrain is definitely futuristic and so are the aerodynamic elements. In fact, the new Spirit of Ecstacy design from this car will feature on all future Rolls-Royce models. While there will certainly be more Rolls-Royce EVs in the future, only the Spectre can claim the ‘First Electric Rolls-Royce’ title.