2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre EV: A Comprehensive Road Test Review

Ultra-Luxury Electric Coupe

What defines luxury in the automotive world? Some manufacturers claim that simply using leather for seat covers elevates an economy vehicle to luxury status. Others have established upscale divisions that they label as luxury. Then there are brands that genuinely consider themselves luxury makers. While these vehicles are indeed commendable, they often fall short of the true luxury mark. After experiencing the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre EV, the distinction between luxury and ultra luxury becomes unmistakable. The Spectre epitomizes ultra-luxury; it is serene, regal, exquisitely refined, and undeniably stunning.

The Rolls-Royce 10, named for its horsepower, was the first vehicle crafted in 1904 by Charles Rolls and Henry Royce, marking the inception of their company. Additional versions such as the 15hp and 20hp were delivered as chassis to bespoke coach builders for unique body designs.

Over the past 120 years, one thing remains unchanged: owning a Rolls-Royce is a unique and precious accolade. Throughout the last 12 years, I have driven numerous vehicles deemed luxury, but only after experiencing the Rolls-Royce Spectre did I grasp the true essence of a luxury car. The company’s claim that it takes “90 pairs of hands and 600 hours” to assemble each car, coupled with a one-year wait time for personalized options, resonates profoundly with their dedication to craftsmanship.

The Spectre Experience – Interior Solitude

As soon as you step inside the Spectre, you embark on an experience beyond mere luxury.

The rear-hinged coach doors close with the touch of a button. When the driver presses the brake, the door gently shuts, latching securely. A classic Rolls-Royce touch includes the body-color-matched umbrellas that tuck into the front fenders when the doors open. The illuminated ‘Spectre’ tread plates and the analog clock, along with luxurious lamb’s wool foot mats, add elegant details.

Once inside and securely closed, the cabin envelops you in profound silence, reminiscent of a recording studio. The six-millimeter-thick door glass and 400 pounds of sound insulation create a tranquil environment where one can momentarily drift away into sublime isolation. As noted by our friends at Edmunds, “In fact, the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is officially the quietest vehicle Edmunds has ever tested.”

Every material exudes quality; everything scores an 11 on a scale of 10. The interior showcased by Clean Fleet Report radiates elegance, with Grace White and Ardent Red hues accentuated by tasteful stitching featuring ‘RR’ on all four headrests in Peony Pink. A comprehensive list of interior color options is provided at the end of the article.

Special Leather

The leather used in the Spectre is only sourced from male cows, hand-dyed and stitched to perfection. These cows hail from Northern Europe, where the absence of mosquitoes and barbed wire ensures the pristine quality of the skins.

On the steering wheel, the veneer inserts match the Ardent Red leather, complemented by open-pore Canadel Wood on the doors. Rolls-Royce describes Canadel as “a tactile finish that retains the natural texture of the material,” contributing to the Spectre’s warm, contemporary feel. The veneer is meticulously matched and elegantly curves to align with the contours of the coach doors, adding continuity to the rear cabin and dash design.

Arguably, the highlight of the cabin is the full-leather Shooting Star headliner, which simulates a starry sky complete with occasional shooting stars.

The Spectre measures an impressive 18 feet, making it the largest coupe available. It comfortably seats four, featuring plush bucket seats in both front and back. The front power seats offer heating, ventilation, memory, and massage features. The decadent rear seats are separated by a soft console that houses temperature controls, air vents, and cup holders, making rear-seat relaxation a joy.

The dashboard stands out for its simplicity and ease of use, ensuring the Spectre’s owner isn’t overwhelmed by complex technology. The head-up display and 12.3-inch digital gauges are customizable.

Sounds and Technology

The multimedia system includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen that serves as the interface for HD/FM, SiriusXM, and built-in Spotify, alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. It comprises navigation, voice recognition, and Bluetooth for hands-free communication. Featuring an impressive 1,300-watt, 18-speaker surround sound system with seven tweeters, seven midrange speakers, two subwoofers, and overhead ‘Exciters’ that enhance audio experience, the system is equipped with Studio and Theater settings and a nine-band equalizer for personalized listening.

The bespoke audio system offers a richly immersive auditory experience, revealing nuances in familiar songs. Engineered specifically for the Spectre, the sound system capitalizes on the cabin’s acoustics, complemented by the extreme quietude resembling a recording studio, making this one of the finest sound systems we’ve encountered.

Climate control is effortlessly managed through a four-zone system featuring physical dial controls, while chrome air vents operate with pull/push functionalities, restoring a sense of simplicity to temperature regulation.

Other notable interior features include a power tilt and telescopic steering wheel, heated side mirrors, ambient lighting, wireless phone charging, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, powered trunk, and a surround-view camera.

Power and Range

Clean Fleet Report test-drove the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre, which marks the brand’s inaugural all-electric model. Equipped with dual “Separately Excited Synchronous” motors, one at the front and one at the rear, it generates 584 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque. The Spectre, adorned with 23-inch polished Wing Spoke wheels featuring self-leveling center caps, has an EPA-rated all-electric range of 266 miles, a figure we approximated during our week-long test, achieving an efficiency of 2.9 miles per kWh. Opting for the version with 22-inch wheels extends the range to 291 miles.

Charging and Regeneration

Charging the Spectre is as straightforward as any other electric vehicle, with Rolls-Royce providing a comprehensive overview.

Before delivery, owners will have a Rolls-Royce Wallbox installed, capable of charging up to 11 kW. This 240-volt Level 2 charger can power the 102 kWh lithium-ion battery from 10-100% in approximately 11 hours.

Although Spectre owners will likely charge at home, adventurous individuals have access to DC fast chargers, which operate at a peak of 190 kW, allowing the battery to transition from 10-80% in around 34 minutes. While there is no shame in recharging alongside more basic EVs at a shopping mall, comfort is likely to be found at home.

Additionally, the Spectre features regenerative braking, which converts kinetic energy into electricity during coasting or braking, thus recharging the battery to extend driving range. The regeneration level is preset, but there is a ‘B’ mode that amplifies the effect, enabling one-pedal driving, bringing the car to a complete stop merely by easing off the accelerator.

Cruising and Gliding

The magic behind the exquisite ride quality I experienced, one that surpasses my 12 years of testing over 1,000 vehicles, lies in the planar suspension, paired with independent air suspension, all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, dynamic stability control, traction control, and cornering brake control.

Rolls-Royce engineers refer to the planar suspension as “an orchestra of systems” that automatically disengages the anti-roll bars, allowing each wheel to respond independently, minimizing high-frequency vibrations caused by minor surface irregularities.

Thanks to this advanced suspension, occupants remain blissfully unaware of road imperfections as the Spectre glides effortlessly down the highway, continually impressive mile after mile. When paired with the studio-like silence, the driving experience is truly unparalleled.

The active axle feature of rear-wheel steering significantly improves handling and ride quality, allowing the substantial, 19-foot Spectre to maneuver like a much smaller vehicle and virtually eliminating the need for three-point turns. This steering technology enhances ease of driving, as the Spectre navigates city streets, parking lots, freeway exits, and winding country roads with grace.

Upon pressing the accelerator, the vehicle responds instantly and powerfully, showcasing the advantages of electric vehicle torque. The performance is remarkable, with the 6,559-pound Spectre achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. However, it’s essential to recognize that potential buyers likely prioritize comfort and luxury over raw speed, already possessing performance vehicles in their collection.

Owners will appreciate the well-balanced weight distribution, which fosters a confident driving experience. The specially developed Pirelli PZero Elect 255/40/23 tires, tailored for high-performance electric and plug-in vehicles, provide excellent grip while minimizing noise.

The Spectre is simply a pleasure to drive, making it difficult to return home without yearning for a long journey.

Slippery Design

With a coefficient of drag (C_d) of only 0.25, the Spectre boasts an impressively low figure for a vehicle of its size, the lowest ever recorded for any Rolls-Royce. Once behind the wheel, this efficiency is readily apparent, combining sleek form with functional design for an efficient and quiet ride.

The Spectre’s design is unparalleled, beginning with the automatically retractable Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament that elegantly reappears when the ignition is activated. This ornament has been enhanced for aerodynamics following rigorous wind tunnel testing. Its iconic grill and slender LED headlights prioritize appearance over functionality, as no engine cooling is required. Designed for efficiency, the vertical fins direct airflow along the car’s outer edges. The front and rear lights also perform a delightful light display upon approach.

The elongated hood gracefully transitions into the sloping windshield, capped by one of the largest coupe roofs that ends with a subtle bustle tail. Chrome accents are tastefully minimized to include the grille, coach door embellishments, and a subtle strip initiating the rear bumper. The Spectre’s seamless design flows without distractions such as cladding or scoops.

The vehicle is offered in a selection of 60 exterior colors. Clean Fleet Report’s featured color was Morganite accented by Gunmetal. A detailed exterior color palette is available at the end of this article.

Safety

The Spectre comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including features such as forward collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and parking distance control for both front and rear.

Further enhancing safety, the adaptive cruise control incorporates lane guidance, lane change assistance, and low-speed hands-free driving capabilities. It also features an integrated camera system providing a panoramic view, along with a recorder for GPS, speed, and other data that can aid in accident analysis.

Pricing

The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is available in one customizable model. Its base price, including the requisite destination and handling charge of $2,750, starts at $422,750. The Spectre tested by Clean Fleet Report totaled $578,775, showcasing $156,025 in added options and packages.

Warranty

New Vehicle – Four years/Unlimited miles

Battery – Eight years/100,000 miles

Factory Maintenance – Four years/Unlimited miles

Roadside Assistance – Four years/Unlimited miles

Observations: 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre

If you’ve made it this far, commendations for sticking through over 2,000 words! The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre deserves multiple reviews due to its extensive offerings, as the brand has infused this model with exceptional features.

While the Spectre may be inaccessible to 99.99% of consumers, it serves as an embodiment of automotive excellence. Owners of this luxury vehicle likely have several other cars in their collections. For them, the 266-mile all-electric driving range is less a limitation and more a reflection of casual usage, spread over weeks or months as they cycle through their collection.

Commanding the wheel of the Spectre fosters an appreciation for high-end luxury in automotives. The design is quintessentially Rolls-Royce, deeply rooted in heritage. The interior experience, accentuated by superior craftsmanship, ranks among the finest we’ve evaluated at Clean Fleet Report, transcending beyond just electric vehicles. Extensive feature lists, including a full safety suite, complement the price tag that may seem steep, considering the myriad of offerings within this handmade ultra-luxury electric model built in Chichester, England.

As for charging, it is reasonable to assume owners would prefer to have personnel manage battery top-ups at home rather than rely on public charging stations. However, mingling with other EVs is not an uncommon sight; during charging at an Electrify America station at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, California, I encountered a collection of premium EVs, including the Porsche Taycan 4S, Rivian RS1, along with models like the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+, EQE 500 4Matic, and EQE 500 X4.

Driving an electric car, whether it’s entry-level or ultra-luxurious, is a remarkable experience. The quietness during motion is absolutely delightful, and the instant torque, whether from a standstill or already at highway speeds, is exhilarating. In the 2024 Spectre, these features are amplified to an extraordinary level that only Rolls-Royce currently delivers, making it a truly special vehicle.

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Story by John Faulkner. Photos by John Faulkner and Rolls-Royce.

Spectre Exterior Colors

Standard

• Darkest Tungsten
• Black Diamond
• English White
• Jubilee Silver
• Midnight Sapphire
• Salamanca Blue
• Iguazu Blue
• Dark Emerald
• Scala Red
• Bohemian Red
• Anthracite
• Arctic White
• Tempest Grey

Commissioned Collection

• Twilight Purple
• Sapphire Black
• Black Kirsch
• Magma Red
• Belladonna Purple
• Imperial Jade
• Wittering Blue
• Monteverde
• Olivin
• Chartreuse
• Gunmetal
• Infinity Black
• Valdivian Lime
• Black
• Morganite

Special Order Color

• Brooklands Green
• Obsidian
• Autumn Mystery Black
• Silversand
• Sapphire Gunmetal
• Adriatic Blue
• Berwick Bronze
• Tungsten
• Titanium
• Arizona Sun
• Wildberry
• Velvet Orchid
• Sterling Grey
• Melanite
• Madiera Red
• Purple Silk
• Blue Velvet
• Stone Grey
• Black Green
• Bronze
• Black Ember
• Burnout Grey
• Galileo Blue
• Duck Egg Blue
• Midnight Blue

Crystal Finish

• Crystal over Arctic White
• Crystal over Selby Grey
• Crystal over Black
• Crystal over Magma Red
• Crystal over Twilight Purple
• Crystal over Fame Green
• Crystal over Salamanca Blue
• Crystal over Orange Metallic
• Crystal over Midnight Sapphire

Spectre Interior Colors

Standard

• Grace White
• Black
• Seashell
• Moccasin
• Scivaro Grey
• Tan
• Navy Blue
• Ardent Red
• Havana

Commissioned Collection

• Charles Blue
• Tailored Purple
• Turchese
• Arctic White
• Iceland Moss
• Peony Pink
• Mandarin
• Cashmere Grey
• Forge Yellow
• Chartreuse
• Phoenix Red

Special Order

• Blushing Pink
• Cacao
• Casden Tan
• Forest Fall
• Galileo Blue
• Lime Green
• Lemon Yellow
• Muscari Blue
• Mugello Red
• Pine Green
• Roseleaf
• Selby Grey

Disclosure:

Clean Fleet Report receives test vehicles from automakers for evaluation, typically for a week at a time. Our reviews are based on these short-term experiences, hence we do not delve into long-term reliability or overall ownership costs. Additionally, we may attend manufacturer events showcasing new vehicles or technology, where we might receive complimentary transport, accommodation, or meals. We strive to present unaltered reviews of vehicles and news, despite these potential influences.

Our focus is primarily on vehicles that excel in fuel efficiency, particularly electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, hybrids, and diesels. We also feature efficient gas-powered cars that rank among the best in their respective categories. Furthermore, we seek to provide reviews and news regarding advanced technology and the alternative fuel vehicle sector. We welcome feedback from vehicle owners and are dedicated to offering a platform for diverse perspectives. Please share your thoughts at publisher@cleanfleetreport.com.