Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge most powerful

ROLLS-ROYCE has pulled the silk sheet from its developed-in-secret Spectre Black Badge this week, the all-electric ultra-luxury vehicle also the brand’s most powerful to date – producing up to 485kW of power and 1075Nm (!) of torque, or 55kW and 175Nm more than the derivative variant.

Joining the Cullinan and Ghost ‘Black Badge’ family, the Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge brings not only more potent performance, but its own styling, colour palette, and interior trim to the fore; further boasting chassis re-engineering typical of the Black Badge line.

Drivers may select Infinity Mode to unleash the full potential of the Spectre Black Badge in short bursts, sharpening the throttle and allowing a 0-60mph (97km/h) time of just 4.1 seconds (-0.4 seconds).

Additional roll stabilisation measures, launch control, and a unique steering calibration further help regulate the spirited performance of this 3000kg missile.

The model’s dimensions – 5453mm long, 2080mm wide, and 1559mm tall – are unchanged from the donor vehicle.

While power consumption of the high-end Black Badge is not advised, we note the regular Spectre uses 21.5kWh per 100km, providing a claimed range of up to 520km. Power is drawn from a 102kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which is said to weigh just more than 700kg.

Charge times using a 195kW DC fast charger are quoted at 34 minutes (from 10 to 80 per cent).

Typical EV features including one pedal operation and regenerative braking modes are available, while a Magic Carpet Ride suspension system – an evolution of Rolls-Royce’s Planar system – combines traditional hardware with Decentralised Intelligence software to produce an exceptionally calm ride.

The revolutionary ‘Decentralised Intelligence’ system is said to allow for the “free and direct exchange of information between more than 1000 vehicle functions”.

As well as a new paint hue dubbed Vapour Violet (pictured), the Spectre Black Badge is available with Rolls-Royce’s extensive Bespoke customisation options.

It is otherwise characterised by blackened 23-inch wheels, badging, bumper accents, door handles, illuminated grille, and Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet ornament.

Moving inside we find a gloss-black dashboard fascia, bespoke upholstery, carbon-fibre ornamentation, star-like LED cabin lighting, and a digitised instrument panel that may be personalised through five unique settings.

“(The) Black Badge Spectre is one of the clearest statements of power and purpose we have ever made,” said Rolls-Royce Motor Cars chief executive Chris Brownridge.

“It has been created in the image of our boldest and most audacious clients, with meticulous attention to detail.

“From the beginning of Black Badge Spectre’s journey, the clients who requested this extraordinary motor car dared us to share their fearless spirit.

“In response, our engineers combined data science, qualitative feedback, and their own deep knowledge of the brand’s alter ego to craft an intense and uncompromising character, and the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history.

“Reflecting the Black Badge character, our designers and artisans realised their most dramatic and provocative vision with vivid details and exquisite contemporary crafts.

“The result is Black Badge Spectre: the alter ego of our brand, amplified.”

Through 2024, Australian buyers purchased a total of 54 Rolls-Royce vehicles. The Cullinan SUV proved the most popular with 25 unit sales.

Pricing and availability of the Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge is not advised, but our guess is it’s a fair way north of the ‘entry’ variant’s $770,000 plus on-road cost sticker.