Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced that it successfully completed a global testing program totaling 2.5 million kilometers ahead of the launch of its first all-electric vehicle, the Spectre.
The Spectre has undergone the most rigorous development process in the 120-year history of Rolls-Royce. It has survived extreme temperatures ranging from -40 to +50 degrees Celsius through hot and cold weather testing. The vehicle was exposed to various driving conditions spanning from the Arctic snowfields to deserts, mountainous regions, and major cities around the world. As a result, it accumulated simulation data equivalent to over 400 years.
During the testing, Rolls-Royce engineers analyzed and adjusted 141,200 digital communication relationships and 25,000 performance-related functions over a cumulative total of 50,000 hours. As a result, improvements were made in every area, including the Spectre’s acoustic performance, cornering stability, steering accuracy, charging time, range, and torque delivery.
Additionally, to provide the most luxurious and “Rolls-Royce-like” experience, a ‘Lifestyle Analysis’ was conducted. This test process uniquely incorporates the daily lives of customers by utilizing detailed understanding and knowledge of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, going beyond standard performance tests.
To examine how the Spectre’s drivetrain performs on specific roads worldwide, driving tests were conducted on Sanya Island in China, Dubai in the UAE, Napa Valley in the USA, and in London, the home market of Rolls-Royce. Tests were also conducted in narrow city streets and upscale residential areas to ensure appropriate movements with all-wheel steering.
Moreover, various tests were performed based on the interests of the primary clientele, also assessing the vehicle at rest. This included verifying the ability to make phone calls from the vehicle when parked next to a hovering helicopter, checking internet connectivity strength between skyscrapers, and facilitating easy access when storing specific items in the vehicle, such as garment bags for evening wear.
The test results will be used to fine-tune the Spectre’s specifications and performance. A notable example is that engineers replicated steep driveways commonly found in Los Angeles, testing the electric door on an incline. They added gyroscopes and G-force sensors to adjust the doors to open and close at the same speed, regardless of parking angle.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös stated, “The Spectre is a vehicle that realizes the bold transition into the electric era envisioned by our founder Charles Rolls and symbolizes Rolls-Royce’s status as the best in technology in the super-luxury segment. It has undergone the most rigorous and delicate testing processes in Rolls-Royce’s history, incorporating customer lifestyle analysis that will deliver the unique ultra-luxury experience associated with Rolls-Royce.”
Meanwhile, first customer deliveries for the Spectre are set to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr