Black Badge Spectre is most powerful Rolls-Royce ever made
Its arrival also takes the Black Badge moniker into the electric age for the first time. Launched in 2016, Black Badge branding is intended to denote powerful and more individualistic versions of its most luxurious cars and is targeted at younger buyers.
Arriving just over a year after the Spectre went on sale as the brand's first electric car, the Black Badge model is pitched as a more aggressive proposition than the standard EV.
While the dual-motor Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre offers the same 577bhp as the standard car in normal running, a new Infinity mode unlocks a further 73bhp and quickens throttle response.
This performance-enhancing feature is said to be inspired by the Rolls Royce Merlin engine that powered aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire during the Second World War. It allowed pilots to call on an extra burst of power to escape dog fights.
As well as the Infinity mode (the symbol of Black Badge), Rolls-Royce has added a launch control setting called Spirited mode, which boosts torque from 660lb ft to 793lb ft and primes the car for a 0-62mph time of 4.1sec.
In all, the potent new Spectre model surpasses the output of the 2016 Wraith Black Badge, which made 623bhp and 642lb ft from its twin-turbocharged V12.
In sync with the extra reserves of the Black Badge Spectre, engineers have fitted new dampers to reduce the effects of the three-tonne EV squatting under acceleration and diving under braking. They also increase the roll stabilisation for flatter cornering. The car gets heavier steering too.
Rolls-Royce has introduced new levels of customisation with the Black Badge Spectre. One option enables buyers to fit the illuminated grille with a backplate that lights up in one of five colours.
This theme continues inside, where the treadplate can also be illuminated, this time in 10 different colourways. The cabin houses the same luxuries as the standard car, which combines an array of high-end materials with digital screens and physical buttons.
The Black Badge is also available with a new colour: Vapour Violet. This is said to be inspired by the 'neon ambience of 1980s and 1990s club culture'. The new colour can be paired with a white bonnet for a 'bold contrast'. Special new 23in fi ve-spoke alloy wheels are fitted and shod with Rolls-Royce's noise-cancelling run-flat tyres.
'Black Badge Spectre is one of the clearest statements of power and purpose we have ever made,' said Rolls-Royce CEO Chris Brownridge. 'Our engineers crafted an intense and uncompromising character and the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history.'
The company has not disclosed pricing, but with the standard car costing from £332,055 before options, it is likely that transaction prices for the Black Badge Spectre will creep well beyond the £500,000 mark once cars are equipped to customers' specifications.
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Time Business News
a day ago
- Time Business News
Top Wedding Cars Hire Birmingham
Are you planning a wedding celebration in Birmingham? One of the most unforgettable ways to reach your Top Wedding Cars for Hire in Birmingham Are you planning a wedding celebration in Birmingham? One of the most unforgettable ways to reach your wedding venue is by the most stunning and luxurious wedding vehicle. From traditional Rolls-Royce to modern Bentleys and contemporary limousines, Birmingham has a wide selection of cars that can be adapted to any style or theme. In this post we'll help you navigate the most popular Wedding Car Hire Birmingham and help to find the ideal ride to celebrate your wedding day. No matter if you want the classic Rolls-Royce or an ultra-modern saloon, this book contains inspiration and useful tips for making your trip through the aisle as chic as is possible. Your wedding car is much more than just an automobile to the wedding location. It's an integral an integral part of the wedding story. From the moment you get in the wedding vehicle and get in, the mood of your wedding day is established. The wedding day becomes part of your wedding album as well as the video, and memories you will cherish for the rest of your life. The wedding vehicle you choose is a reflection of your individual fashion and will enhance the overall event. If you're looking for classic style, contemporary chic or royal elegance, choosing the perfect vehicle can make the difference. We'll look at some of the more sought-after and elegant wedding vehicles available to rental in Birmingham. Classic & Vintage Cars Classic vehicles add a romantic and timeless vibe to every wedding. They're especially popular with weddings with traditional traditions or in rural locations. Top Picks: the Rolls-Royce silver cloud Ideal for weddings of the past with a refined look. Ideal for weddings of the past with a refined look. Beauford Tourer: An old-fashioned open-top vehicle with stunning wedding pictures. An old-fashioned open-top vehicle with stunning wedding pictures. Bentley S1: It is renowned for its classic beauty and lavish interiors. They are perfect for groomsmen and brides who wish to create an impressive appearance. Couples who are seeking elegant, luxurious fashion, luxury vehicles can be a great choice. These cars offer luxury with style and modern style. Top Picks: Bentley Flying Spur: Combines elegance and power and a lavish interior. Combines elegance and power and a lavish interior. Mercedes S-Class: Modern and elegant, coupled with smooth and comfortable cruise. Modern and elegant, coupled with smooth and comfortable cruise. Jaguar XJ: Ideal for grooms looking for bold, masculine style. If you're looking for elegance, nothing can match the splendor of an stretch limousine. Limousines are ideal for large wedding parties, or for couples that wish to spend time with family members and close friends. Top Picks: Chrysler Baby Bentley Limousine: A classy option that comes with contemporary features. A classy option that comes with contemporary features. Lincoln Town Car Stretch Limo: Elegant, large, and ideal to give that royal feel. Are you looking for something totally different? The sports car is becoming an increasingly popular option to modernize weddings. They're particularly sought-after by brides and couples looking to impress guests with a stunning entrance. Top Picks: Ferrari 488 Spider Elegant, striking and memorable. Elegant, striking and memorable. Lamborghini Huracan: It's got Italian design and an roar of adrenaline. It's got Italian design and an roar of adrenaline. Aston Martin DB11: Aston Martin DB11 is a blend of British history and performance. The best wedding car does not just mean picking the most flashy vehicle. There are some important factors to consider so that the choice you make is in line with your wedding theme. Match Your Theme Your wedding car must complement the theme of your wedding and also match with the wedding venue. An old-fashioned car is ideal with rustic and historic wedding settings While a contemporary Bentley or Rolls-Royce works well in chic venues with modern themes. Consider the Size Imagine how many are expected to be inside the vehicle. Only the groom and bride? Are you also including parents of the bridesmaids or groomsmen? Limousines as well as luxury MPVs can be great to accommodate larger parties. Birmingham is one of the most popular locations for weddings, particularly in the summertime. Making reservations for the Wedding Car hire Birmingham in advance is crucial. There are some vehicles that can be reserved for months in advance, including old-fashioned limousines as well as vintage models. Review the Company Find reputable businesses with a positive review. An experienced company will make sure that your vehicle is on time, clean with a professional chauffeur. Prestige Drive has earned a reputable company in the local area and offers a beautiful collection of vintage and luxury automobiles for special occasions. What's Included in Wedding Car Hire Birmingham Packages? The most popular Wedding Car Hire Birmingham services are: A professional chauffeur who is dressed to impress. Wedding car decorations (ribbons, flowers) Free champagne or bottle water (optional) Pick-up and drop-off on time Multiple excursions (e.g. for picking the bride and her bridesmaids in separate trips) Be sure to verify the specifics of the package prior to booking. Request modifications, additional costs for time, or extra stops that you might require. Certain Birmingham locations are very sought-after for wedding cars due to their close proximity to wedding locations as well as scenic routes. This includes: Edgbaston: Close to breathtaking venues such as Botanical Gardens Close to breathtaking venues such as Botanical Gardens Moseley & Kings Heath: Known for bohemian and indie-style weddings. Known for bohemian and indie-style weddings. Solihull Perfect for country weddings, traditional ceremonies and other celebrations. Perfect for country weddings, traditional ceremonies and other celebrations. Jewellery Quarter Perfect for elegant urban weddings An elegantly styled wedding vehicle is a great focal point for your wedding's photography. If you're leaving a classic Rolls-Royce or getting out of the sleek Bentley the power of the car is impressive. Photographers typically use the car to create backgrounds for Couple portraits Family photographs Photos of the wedding before it began Grand exits are at the conclusion of the reception An elegant car's exterior beautiful ribbons and an elegant backdrop will add style to the wedding photo album. At Prestige Drive, we specialize in providing exceptional Wedding Car Hire Birmingham experiences. Our fleet of cars comprises the entire range including Rolls-Royce Phantoms and Bentley Flying Spurs to executive limousines as well as stunning sports cars. Why Choose Us? Highly-experienced chauffeurs: Our drivers are reliable, punctual and professionally dressed. Our drivers are reliable, punctual and professionally dressed. Customized Packages: We understand every wedding is different and provide tailor-made packages that meet the needs of your guests. We understand every wedding is different and provide tailor-made packages that meet the needs of your guests. Luxurious Fleet Clean and well-maintained vehicles that are maintained in the most pristine conditions. Clean and well-maintained vehicles that are maintained in the most pristine conditions. Unmatched Service From reservation to drop-off We're there to make sure that your trip is easy and easy. CALL TO ACTION Are you ready to reserve the perfect wedding car? Contact Prestige Drive today to make your wedding's transportation memorable. Visit our website: Now call us: 0786 665 5577 For availability, check and reserve the date you want to reserve. 'The Bentley Flying Spur from Prestige Drive was a dream! The chauffeur was punctual and the service was 5 stars.' – Ayesha & Daniel, Edgbaston 'We hired a Rolls-Royce Phantom and couldn't be happier. The car was immaculate and looked amazing in our photos.' – Priya & James, Solihull 'From start to finish, Prestige Drive was professional, friendly, and so helpful. Highly recommended for anyone looking for Wedding Car Hire Birmingham!' – Sarah & Omar, Harborne It's a once-in-a lifetime moment, and having the proper transport plays an important role in creating an unforgettable wedding experience. No matter if you prefer vintage elegant, modern-day sophistication or a show-stopping performance, Birmingham offers the perfect automobile for each couple. If you choose to work with a reliable service such as Prestige Drive, you ensure that your wedding day starts and concludes in class and elegance. Don't leave this crucial element to chance. Make sure you book early. pick wisely and drive with style. TIME BUSINESS NEWS


Indianapolis Star
7 days ago
- Indianapolis Star
Best in class: Pato O'Ward targeting 2nd-place IndyCar championship finish as his toughest tracks near
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O'Ward's unlikely road to putting some serious pressure on Palou won't come easy even after heading back to the States, with two more permanent road courses up next, which the young Mexican driver has never scored even a podium in eight combined starts at Laguna Seca and Portland. Palou, on the other hand, has eight podiums in 11 combined starts at the next three tracks, including four wins and just a single result worse than sixth place. And that's why O'Ward's hopes are realistic with just over a month to go in his 2026 campaign. Still, there's personal history to target, he pointed out. 'Hand him over to the world': How Pato O'Ward became IndyCar's biggest star 'I've never been second in the championship. 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Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Yahoo
Rolls-Royce SMR and ČEZ agree on Temelín site development work
Rolls-Royce SMR has signed an early works agreement with Czech utility ČEZ to commence site-specific activities at the Temelín site in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. The agreement follows ČEZ's selection of Rolls-Royce SMR as its preferred partner for delivering up to three gigawatts (3GW) of sustainable power in Czechia. This initiative aligns with recent commitments by UK and Czech leaders to enhance economic growth through clean energy technology. It underscores both nations' dedication to leveraging small modular reactor (SMR) export opportunities, fostering highly skilled employment, stimulating economic expansion, and ensuring secure, domestically produced clean energy. Rolls-Royce SMR CEO Chris Cholerton stated: "This agreement is an important step forward in our partnership with ČEZ, demonstrating our shared ambition to move at pace to deliver reliable, clean nuclear power in the Czech Republic. "We are proud to be working alongside ČEZ to deliver a programme that will bring significant industrial and economic benefits to both our nations, while helping to meet critical energy security and decarbonisation goals." A joint team has been assembled to undertake preliminary tasks at the site, which already houses the operational Temelín nuclear power station, operated by ČEZ. Further deployment prospects are being evaluated at Tušimice in the Ústí nad Labem region. The scope of early works involves acquiring regulatory approvals and licences, conducting environmental assessments and executing initial groundwork at Temelín. These efforts will facilitate detailed planning processes and foster engagement with regulatory bodies for timely project rollout. Each unit from Rolls-Royce's suite of SMRs can produce 470MW of eco-friendly electricity, sufficient to supply one million households. It is designed to have an operational lifespan of more than 60 years. ČEZ new energy division and member of the board and director Tomáš Pleskač stated: 'We will closely cooperate with Rolls-Royce SMR on preparing the construction of the first small modular reactor in the Czech Republic, which is expected to be built in the Temelín locality in the mid-2030s. 'Modular reactors represent a significant opportunity for the Czech economy and are an essential part of the ongoing energy transformation. The cooperation with Rolls-Royce SMR, which we established this year, offers a unique opportunity for growth and prosperity in the field of nuclear energy, also thanks to our participation in the technology development.' In June 2025, Great British Energy – Nuclear chose Rolls-Royce SMR as the preferred bidder for the development of SMRs in the UK, subject to final government approvals and contract negotiations. "Rolls-Royce SMR and ČEZ agree on Temelín site development work" was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data