Electric Rolls-Royce | 102EX Phantom

With their ongoing reputation for high quality, they recently unveiled an experimental electric vehicle built on the Rolls Royce Phantom platform. This one-of-a-kind super car retains the looks, luxurious quality and prestige of the Rolls Royce of the past, whilst being equally economic.

From the 102EX Phantom's appearance you would never know that the car is all electric. Unlike many electric vehicles, which have been given a very distinctive and till recently an unappealing styling, this is every bit a typical Rolls Royce both outside and in. There are some minor changes inside, as befits an electric vehicle. A charge remaining indicator and a charging meter are included instead of a fuel gauge.

The paint has been redesigned, having a finer particle that allows for a deeper shine than ever before, and the Spirit of Ecstasy is clear plastic, and illuminated with a blue light. Red badges are included to indicate its experimental status.

As a nice nod to style, the batteries of the 102EX Phantom have been designed and laid out to look like a typical Rolls Royce engine, rather than an electric engine.

As far as power is concerned, the 102EX Phantom is certainly not lacking, being able to manage 0-62 in just 5.7 seconds. A single, full charge can take the car 124 miles-more than enough for the average commute and a good deal more than many electric vehicles can do.

Charging this car is easier than with most. Instead of needing to plug the car in, you can simply park it up above the specially designed induction plate that delivers charge to the batteries. The second half of the induction circuit is built into the car, allowing an eight hour fast charge cycle. Charging is available via a socket, but takes a much longer period-20 hours for a full charge.

Their incredible and eye-catching Rolls-Royce's Phantom 102EX has been on a universal rock-star type tour, permitting aficionado's a really good hands on experience.

So, what would make a company like Rolls-Royce step into eco-friendly territory? Unfortunately, they didn't come to the harsh realization that green is better and create an eco-friendly electric car to help the planet. But, like most in the automotive industry, they too are endeavoring to paint themselves green, persevere the EV hype and sell more ICE Rolls!

None-the-less, the fact that even Rolls Royce is now investigating electric vehicle technology, no matter their motivation, goes to show that the electric car is coming of age.

Though the 102EX Phantom won't be produced it will allow Rolls Royce to test and further develop the technology that will help to take them and hopefully those who will make electric cars for the masses, into the next era. It also serves well to show just how powerful and beautiful an electric vehicle can be made to be.