The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is the brand’s first fully electric vehicle, marking a historic shift toward electrification while maintaining the ultra-luxury standards Rolls-Royce is known for. Below is a detailed review covering its design, performance, technology, and overall ownership experience.
1. Design & Exterior
- Stately & Elegant: The Spectre retains Rolls-Royce’s iconic design language—a long hood, a sweeping fastback roofline, and the signature Pantheon grille (now softly illuminated).
- Coach Doors: Suicide doors (rear-hinged) add to the grandeur, making entry/exit effortless.
- Customization: Buyers can choose from an endless palette of colors, bespoke wheel designs (23" available), and personalized pinstripes.
- Aerodynamic Tweaks: A drag coefficient of 0.25 is impressive for such a large vehicle.
2. Interior & Luxury
- Handcrafted Opulence: Sumptuous leather, real wood, and metal accents dominate the cabin. The Starlight Headliner (now with shooting star effects) is optional.
- Seating: Four- or five-seat configurations with massaging, heated, ventilated, and infinitely adjustable seats.
- Silence: Near-silent cabin with double-glazed windows and extensive sound-deadening materials.
- Bespoke Options: Custom embroidery, personalized treadplates, and even a champagne fridge are available.
3. Performance & Electric Powertrain
- Dual Motors: 577 hp & 664 lb-ft torque (estimated), delivering 0-60 mph in ~4.4 sec—quick but not hypercar-fast, prioritizing smoothness over brutality.
- Battery & Range: A 102 kWh battery provides an EPA-estimated 260–280 miles (less than a Lucid Air but sufficient for Rolls-Royce’s clientele).
- Charging: Supports 195 kW DC fast charging (10-80% in ~34 mins) and 22 kW AC charging.
- Magic Carpet Ride: Air suspension with Planar tech scans the road ahead for imperfections, ensuring a cloud-like ride.
4. Technology & Infotainment
- Spirit of Ecstasy Interface: Rolls-Royce’s proprietary infotainment system (based on BMW iDrive but heavily customized).
- Digital Dashboard: A sleek, minimalist display with classic Rolls-Royce typography.
- Advanced Driver Aids: Night vision, adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, and a self-parking system.
- Connectivity: 5G hotspot, over-the-air updates, and a Bespoke Audio System (18+ speakers).
5. Price & Ownership
- Starting Price: ~$ 420,000 (before customisation). Fully bespoke builds can exceed $600,000.
- Who’s It For? Ultra-high-net-worth individuals who want a silent, luxurious EV with unmatched prestige.
- Maintenance: Rolls-Royce includes complimentary servicing and 24/7 concierge support.
- Competitors: None directly—closest rivals are the Bentley Batur (ICE) and custom Mercedes-Maybach EQS (though less exclusive).
Verdict: 9.5/10
The Spectre isn’t just an electric Rolls-Royce—it’s the future of the brand**, blending zero-emission tech with uncompromising luxury. While its range and charging speed lag behind some EVs, Rolls-Royce buyers prioritize exclusivity and refinement** over practicality. If money is no object, the Spectre is the ultimate electric status symbol.
Buy if: You want the pinnacle of luxury EVs and relish bespoke craftsmanship.
Skip if: You prioritise cutting-edge EV tech (e.g., 300+ mile range, ultra-fast charging) over opulence.
