Rolls-Royce 102EX electric drive concept to be showcased at Geneva

The concept car, dubbed the 102EX, is essentially an electric-powered version of the Phantom luxury sedan, and will be used as a "test bed" which will be used to gather feedback about consumer acceptance of alternative powertrains. Full pictures and specifications of the 102EX will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

According to Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos, "With this vehicle, we begin an exploration into alternative drive-trains, seeking clarity on which alternative technologies may be suitable to drive Rolls-Royce motor cars of the future." He added, "It must be a technology that is right for our customers, our brand and which sets us on a sound footing for a sustainable future."

After the Geneva Motor Show, Rolls-Royce will bring the 102EX concept on a world tour, and offer the car to owners and potential customers in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America for test drives, in order to gather valuable feedback and for customers to share their experiences, thoughts and concerns directly with the company.

Rolls-Royce wants feedback on the 102EX's ability to deliver an acceptable range between re-charges and to operate in extreme weather conditions, as well as to benchmark reliability and quality against customer expectations. "I must be convinced that any alternative drive-train we choose for the future delivers an authentic Rolls-Royce experience," explained Muller-Otvos. "It must be a technology that is right for our customers, our brand and which sets us on a sound footing for a sustainable future."