Rolls Royce Phantom 102 EX
In the world of automobiles Rolls Royce has been synonymous with luxury for more than a 100 years.
A symbol of the finest design and speed to match the high caliber taste of its owners, Rolls Royce has been on the cutting edge in every technical and aesthetic category.
Now as we head into the 21st century, Rolls Royce will lead the way in the luxury automobile world with its first commercial plug in hybrid. The company confirmed during the Geneva Motor Show that the vehicle should become a reality within the next three years.
Rolls Royce’s CEO, Torsten Müller-Otvos, described hybrid technology as “essential in two years, maybe not from customer demand but through legal regulation on emissions,” if the car company wants to continue using their V12 powerhouse engines.
Rolls Royce’s first hybrid attempt the Phantom 102 EX
The immediate question is can it be done? Can a Rolls Royce—a car that goes hand in hand with luxury and speed—develop a hybrid car that will match its own high standards, and those of its customers?
The first time Rolls Royce attempted a fuel efficient car was a Phantom prototype called the 102EX. It was not met with high praise as current owners were dissatisfied with the charging time and mileage received. So, the concept car never went into public production.
Rolls Royce CEO Müller-Otvos has firmly stated “A Rolls-Royce cannot come with any kind of compromise, and both the recharging times and the range were not acceptable for our buyers — but with hybrid technology that is no longer a problem”
—Alejandro Ramos
