Rolls-Royce has announced the Black Badge Spectre, the most powerful vehicle in the marque’s 119-year history. Delivering 650bhp – up from the regular model’s 578bhp – and 792lb ft of torque it remains a fully electric model. For the final set-up, Rolls-Royce has drawn on driving data collected from a small group of early testers, driving a fleet of clandestine Black Badge Spectres to analyse usage, and tailor the car specifically to their requirements.
Two advanced driving modes have been developed as a result: ‘Infinity Mode’ unlocks the full power potential, altering throttle response and digital displays, with ‘Spirited Mode’ – said to be inspired by the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine – provides an dedicated acceleration mode. This is required to unlock the 0-60mph time of 4.1 seconds.
Chassis settings of the Black Badge Spectre have been tweaked to deliver a more dynamic set-up, thanks to slightly heftier steering, enhanced roll-stabilisation and revised damping to ensure greater body control –without spoiling the ride quality. The Black Badge also gets a 23-inch five-spoke forged aluminium wheel design, which is available in a part-polished or all-black finish.
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The Black Badge Spectre embodies the boldest vision of what the company calls its ‘alter ego’ philosophy. Beyond its performance, the Black Badge Spectre introduces a new Vapour Violet colour, which it says is inspired by 1980s and 1990s club culture. This debuts alongside an illuminated Pantheon Grille, Black Badge kickplates, and an illuminated fascia featuring the Infinity symbol. Rolls-Royce also introduces a new ‘waft’ coachline option and as with all Black Badge models before it, the Spectre’s mirror-polished brightwork is presented with a dark finish
Speaking on the launch, Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, stated: ‘Black Badge Spectre is one of the clearest statements of power and purpose we have ever made. It has been created in the image of our boldest and most audacious clients, with meticulous attention to detail.’
