Story by Vaughn Lowery + Benjamin Reese
Photos by Tyren Redd [http://tyrenredd.com]
Ever think about what’s in a name? See the words “Rolls-Royce” and say history, opulence and royalty, but the actual question is what’s really underneath all of that? Begin thinking deeper about the fellowship known as Rolls-Royce Motorcars and immediately doors that open up in ultra majestic suicide fashion come to mind. An automobile with the presence of a large ship carrying a beautifully sculpted figure on its bonnet beholding the power of all greatness in its spirit. A striking piece of artwork crafted from nothing less than the finest and most precious materials known to mankind.
All of this in mind, every time Rolls-Royce Motorcars releases a new model we recognize it’s going to be a special one. The Wraith coupe was reintroduced in 2013 after being on suspension from its original first appearance back in 1938. Today, their latest of evolution of the Wraith has arrived in 2017 in the “Black Badge” edition. Still a Rolls in every sense of the word, simply think of the Black Badge as a garnished twist that leaves you with a darker and sportier essence.
The traditional V12 engine is up in power, bringing max output to 624 hp with 642 lb-ft of torque and is now officially their most powerful engine ever created. Zero to sixty mph comes in just 4.3 seconds, which the younger minded buyers Rolls Royce claims the Black Badge plans to attract will care about. The Black Badge is built to inspire sportiness and their 21-inch carbon alloy composite wheels, inspired from 1960’s exotic Italian supercars will compliment that feature. While a steel monocoque sit’s underneath it’s chassis, Rolls has reworked the rear end along this fast back coupe to provide it with the athleticism it suggests.
The inside is completely thrilling with a primary Mugello red interior, contrast stitching and a black starlight headliner reminiscent of the dark sky. Black Badge models come with technical fiber on the fascia, center console and armrest opposed to the wood veneer found on standard Wraiths. Nonetheless, every Rolls-Royce is made custom to order and buyers have the option of fitting any style cockpit they desire (hence part of the reason there’s no two identical Rolls in the world). A driver-focused heads up display also comes standard with the Black Badge while passengers are able to enjoy a Bespoke Audio 600-watt 16 speaker audio system. Exclusive and new for the Black Badge is a unique clock resting on the center console with the “infinity” symbol placed on the front face, indicative of its limitless attitude and personality.
The grand price of ownership for the Black Badge Wraith comes in at $416,000.105 USD as tested but in this category price is nothing but a figure. The young and the restless will daringly pay for the excitement this latest Rolls has to offer.
