Words: Jonathan Wells
With models including the Phantom, Wraith and Ghost, British carmakers Rolls-Royce don’t shy away from the supernatural – or the shadows.
But now, the brand have revealed their two latest limited runs – dark, glossy takes on the Ghost and Wraith dubbed ‘Black Badge editions’. Described as “the alter ego of Rolls-Royce, darker, more assertive, more confident and powerful,” the automaker seems to be taking things in a Jekyll-and-Hyde direction, ramping up the abandon factor of the vehicles.
The cosmetic revisions are clear, as everything and anything has been styled in a deep, glossy black. Darkened chrome, black paint and unique Rolls-Royce-developed carbon fibre composite wheels give the cars the look of shadows themselves – and no component or fixture has been overlooked.
The iconic ‘Spirit of Ecstacy’ bonnet mascot has even been given the black treatment, with Rolls-Royce theatrically writing that “the Flying Lady mutates into a high-gloss black vamp, proudly scything through the night-time cityscape”.
Inside, things are similarly atmospheric. Aerospace-grade aluminium-threaded carbon fibre composite surfacing – a material usually used to coat stealth aircraft – forms the cabin. Air vents have been darkened, mood lighting glows from a black starlight headliner, and the logo is embroidered in black.
Aside from aesthetics, the Black Badge Editions get mechanical boosts. The Ghost has 30kW more power and 60Nm more torque, whilst the Wraith has been gifted another 70Nm torque and quicker throttle and transmission responses.
Regarding price, the Ghost Black Badge will cost you a little over £350,000, and the Wraith Black Badge just shy of £450,000 – meaning you’ll have to be in the black to be in these Blacks.
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