Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge

Based on the second-generation Ghost model, Rolls-Royce now presents the most purist offshoot of the Black Badge range to date since the introduction of this name in 2016. The luxurious saloon stretches to 5.55 meters in length, 2.15 meters in width and 1.57 meters in height. The wheelbase of 3,295 millimeters means there is plenty of space inside for comfortable driving. Under the hood is a 6.75-liter V12 biturbo engine with 441 kW/600 hp and 900 Nm of torque. Compared with the normal Ghost, the increase in power is thus 29 hp and 50 Nm. Despite an unladen weight of 2.49 tons, the new Ghost Black Badge accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Out of consideration for the tires, the topspeed is limited to 155 mph.

Lying eight as a recognition symbol

With the previous Black Badge models Ghost, Wraith, Dawn and Cullinan, Rolls-Royce now achieves a share of over 27 percent of their new cars produced each year. This figure could rise even further with the second Ghost generation. In addition to the blacked-out chrome details on the exterior including the black Spirit of Ecstasy, a mathematical symbol links all Black Badge cars. Between the rear seats is an 8 lying on its side, the symbol of infinity. It was first seen on Sir Malcolm Campbell’s record-breaking Blue Bird K3 hydroplane, which was powered by Rolls-Royce engines. The second Ghost Black Badge series is deliberately intended to be less opulent than before. In the first twelve months that the new Ghost generation has been available, Rolls-Royce has already received more than 3,500 (pre-)orders. With the introduction of the Black Badge, this number is likely to rise significantly.

All colors available, black frequently chosen

For the Ghost Black Badge, prospective buyers can choose from all 44,000 paint colors in Rolls-Royce’s permanent color program. In addition, of course, independent colors of choice can be mixed. However, previous Black Badge customers mainly chose the characteristic black. This is the darkest black in series-production. In the case of the Ghost, 45 kilograms of paint and two coats of clear lacquer are used. Before delivery, four specially trained employees ensure a high-gloss polish, which takes between three and five hours per car. The wheel arches are fitted ex works with 21-inch rims with carbon outer parts and 3D-forged aluminium spokes.

Colorful leather in the interior

Inside, a novel weaving technique of carbon and metal fibers provides very technical surfaces on the dashboard, steering wheel and center tunnel. On the passenger side, black Bolivar veneer with integrated LED is used, which also encloses the analog timepiece in an open-pore design. At the rear between the rear seats, the infinity symbol in aviation aluminium is inlaid under the clear lacquer on the waterfall element. Behind this element is a champagne cooler. Folding tables and an LED starry sky are also available as options. As with other Black Badge models before it, the interior can be upgraded with colorful leather. For the presentation car, Rolls-Royce chose a light blue, which was also used for the exterior pinstripes.

Images: Rolls-Royce