Review: Spectre by Rolls-Royce – The Ultimate Electric Experience

The new $420,000 all-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre features an impressive array of attributes, including a smooth ride quality, a headliner adorned with illuminated stars, a powerful 577-horsepower engine, and a range of 266 miles. Additionally, it offers massaging seats and an eye-catching chrome front grille. Yet, the most remarkable aspect for some is the unique sound it produces. Despite being an electric vehicle that inherently lacks traditional engine noises, the Spectre enhances the driving experience by playing a digital tone upon acceleration. This sound is unlike the synthetic noises commonly emitted by modern electric vehicles, likened to a grand cinematic moment as seen in sci-fi films.

The subtlety of the tone complements the vehicle’s remarkably quiet interior, helping to elevate the overall experience above other electric vehicles on the market. The Rolls-Royce brand, recognized for top-tier machines since 1904, appears to have been working towards this achievement for over a century.

Early Rolls-Royce models like the Silver Ghost or Phantom were notable for their quiet operation despite possessing large engines. With the introduction of the Spectre, Rolls-Royce engineers have transitioned from overproducing quiet internal combustion engines to relying on electric motors. The Spectre boasts two electric motors that generate a combined 577 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, allowing the 6,371-pound vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

Despite its capability for high-speed travel, the Spectre also offers an optimal driving range of up to 266 miles per charge when driven calmly. The throttle and brake pedals, along with the steering, offer a subdued driving experience, emphasizing comfort and control. Furthermore, rear-wheel steering aids driver maneuverability in tight spaces, while a 360-degree camera and standard automated parking assist in maintaining the 23-inch wheels’ condition.

The Spectre incorporates technology from its parent company, BMW, though some features such as BMW’s hands-off driver assist system are absent. The vehicle’s infotainment system is modern, providing navigation and charging station location services, although Android Auto presented compatibility issues. The bespoke 16-speaker audio system, while lacking Dolby Atmos support, delivers a subtle yet powerful listening experience.

Despite not encompassing every advanced technological feature, the interior of the Spectre offers luxurious details including soft lambswool floor mats and meticulously designed metal controls. While the base model is priced at $420,000, additional features can significantly increase the overall cost, with one model reaching $560,100 after destination charges.

Deciding if such an expenditure is justified remains subjective, particularly for individuals with limited budgets. The Spectre is exceptional, particularly in terms of its unique sound experience, making it a noteworthy achievement for Rolls-Royce. As the brand moves towards becoming fully electric by 2030, with an SUV expected in 2027, how future models will perform remains uncertain. However, if they maintain the current standard of sound quality, they are likely to start on a promising note.

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