Rolls-Royce 102EX is an experimental car designed by the Goodwood-based company Rolls-Royce to explore alternate drive-train technologies suitable for future Rolls-Royce models. It is the world’s first electric car of the ultra-luxury type. This experimental car also known as Phantom Experimental Electric comprises the largest battery ever fixed to any electric car so far. Though the company has no plans of bulk-manufacturing this car for now, it prefers to gather information on the car’s potential in terms of recharging efficiencies and ability to work under extreme conditions by using the prototype.
Specifications
The Phantom 102EX features a 96-cell lithium-ion battery that replaces the 6.75 lt V12 petrol engine. The battery has a capacity of 71 kWh that offers the car a maximum speed of 125 miles/h. The electric power in the car will last for 8 to 25 h depending on the type of charger used. The battery system is combined with three-phase battery chargers and two water-cooled motors. The electric pad can be charged using an inbuilt induction pad by simply parking the car on a special rubber mat.
The aesthetics of the 102EX is laudable, particularly the red RR badges and the Spirit of Ecstasy on its hood. The leather used in its interiors is tanned using 100% pure vegetable oils followed by dyeing in wooden barrels. The Phantom-based sedan features stuffed arm chairs like front seats and luxurious back seats. The power gauges fixed on a dashboard have analogue elements instead of digitized dials.
Summary
The Phantom 102EX was sent for a world tour to test its potential at various conditions across the globe. The overall review from the public clearly states that the 102 EX model does have few compromises in driving range and time taken for charging. The floors of the Phantom are flat and topped with chestnut-colored leather which seems to be extraneous. Absence of hill-assist brakes that are present in a number of cars today is noticeable. Aluminium foil weaves replace the conventional burled wood veneers of the Phantom 102EX. The acceleration of the car is smooth and its regenerative braking is softer than other electric cars.
According to Rolls-Royce, the Phantom has a driving range of 200 km and a charging time of 8 h. The effort undertaken by the company to be independent of gasoline is commendable and the company is now patiently taking the feedback and comments related to the compromises in the performance or aesthetics of the car due to electrification. With the Phantom 102EX, Rolls-Royce has stepped into the right path to a sustainable future, delivering a luxurious experience while still going green.
Rolls Royce 102EX Phantom Experimental Electric - Run time - 4:39mins
Rolls-Royce 102EX Phantom Experimental Electric revealed
Sources and Further Reading