There are few true icons in the world of motoring, and Rolls-Royce is undoubtedly among the brightest. A brand that typically needs no introduction now finds itself entering a new and rather different market—where, perhaps, a reintroduction could serve it well. The Black Badge Spectre is something entirely different, yet remains, inside and out, unmistakably a Rolls-Royce.
The fully electric Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre
The Black Badge Spectre is the first fully electric model in the Rolls-Royce family, and it's already dominating global sales—ranking first in Europe and second worldwide. And it doesn’t compromise on power: with 659 horsepower in the Black Badge Spectre version we tested, it is the most powerful model in the marque’s history.
But why such power? The concept was born of anonymised data collected from previous models. Rolls-Royce tracked the needs and preferences of its clients and identified the main target for this line: a younger, more agile audience, keen on performance. Hence, the “Infinity Mode” button on the steering wheel—designed to unleash the full force of the engine. The “Spirited Mode” allows the Black Badge Spectre to deliver waves of intense, instant acceleration. From a standstill, a button simultaneously deactivates the brakes and accelerator, followed by a vibration and an indicator signalling the car is ready for a 0–60mph (almost 100km/h) sprint in just 4.1 seconds. It feels like stepping into a video game.
This appeal to a younger, more exclusive clientele extends beyond just the PlayStation-like features. After designing the Black Badge Spectre based on their preferences, Rolls-Royce sent a strictly limited fleet to a select group of loyal clients for testing—under a discreet “clandestine agreement” which required total secrecy. The mystery only added to the buzz surrounding an already highly anticipated launch.
Exclusivity is also the watchword when it comes to aesthetics. Rolls-Royce takes immense pride in its new Vapour Violet paintwork, inspired by 1980s and ’90s club culture. Yet, it also offers clients the option to create their own bespoke colour in collaboration with the brand’s designers. What’s more, the “Spirit” operating system allows further personalisation of the interior, with five changeable interior themes at any time and access to the brand’s digital community, Whispers. In essence, no two Black Badge Spectre models are the same.
One detail that may—or may not—come as a surprise: the Black Badge Spectre is typically the second Rolls-Royce in a garage of seven. One might assume this is due to scepticism around the electric drivetrain, but the truth is that its use is determined by other factors—perhaps more dynamic, sportier contexts.
That’s because, when it comes to efficiency and performance, the electric motor has proven robust, as shown by numerous case studies highlighted by the British marque. A client in Dubai has already clocked up almost 13,000 km in a year, while an English entrepreneur regularly completes a 480 km round trip between Suffolk and Goodwood. Is it reliable? Absolutely.
Our test drive confirmed the technical data provided by Rolls-Royce. We truly enjoyed ourselves—on the track and off it. And “enjoy” is the right word here. The first impression? Astonishing how quickly it gains speed—even more so considering it’s the brand’s very first electric engine. In Catalonia, we put it through acceleration tests that pinned us to our seats, and agility trials between cones that highlighted the Black Badge’s responsiveness—despite its imposing design and heavyweight heritage. This is not the Rolls-Royce enshrined in collective luxury imagination, and it proved that point convincingly when theory turned into practice.
The only downside? Inevitably, the price—starting from half a million euros. But truthfully, we fell in love with the Black Badge Spectre and were reluctant to return to earth. That signature “magic carpet ride” sensation still lingers, and despite the youthful packaging filled with features we’d love to see in every car, this is what makes a Rolls-Royce truly a Rolls-Royce.
Visit the official Rolls-Royce website for more details.
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Last Updated on May 22, 2025 by Editorial Team
