Rolls-Royce EV, Plug-In Hybrid Still In The Works

Posted by Jeffrey N. Ross 

@  BOLD RIDE                               

 

 The idea of a Rolls-Royce EV is nothing new. The ultra-luxury automaker has been talking about it for years and even debuted the 102EX Electric Concept back in 2011, but Auto Express recently talked with two executives who said the electrification of Rolls-Royce vehicles is still under consideration.

According to the report, Richard Collar, the head of bespoke sales and marketing for Rolls-Royce, said that the idea of a Rolls-Royce EV was well-received by customers, and that such a model is “something very true” to the brand. Like all automakers, the biggest challenge to a Rolls-Royce EV remains the driving range, and Collar added that Rolls-Royce customers “don’t accept compromise.”

In place of the Phantom’s 6.75-liter V12, the 102EX Electric Concept uses a lithium ion battery and two electric batteries that give the car a total output of 388 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. This setup gives the 102EX Electric Concept a driving range of about 124 miles with a top speed of 99 mph.

Until battery technology gets more advanced to allow for great driving range, though, Rolls-Royce will likely focus on a developing a plug-in hybrid to add to its lineup. In the article, Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos said that such technology “will be essential within two years.”