I was invited by Rolls-Royce to attend the launch of the Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge edition at the Rolls Royce boutique store at the Daytona showrooms in Cape Town. On arrival, the vehicle was kept hidden whilst guests mingled. After an intro, the vehicle was finally unveiled for all to see.
After photos were taken, we all had the chance to climb inside the vehicle, which is absolutely superb. Considering it sells for +-10 Million Rand, I would not expect anything less than pure perfection. Currently there is only one model in South Africa.
The most powerful Rolls-Royce ever – with added attitude. Wraith Black Badge is an intoxicating new incarnation of luxury. A darker aesthetic. An irresistible aura. And enhanced handling that lets you relish every stretch of road. Step into the night, and find out what happens when you embrace your bolder side.
Powerful, dynamic and refined. Wraith Black Badge is the ultimate modern fastback coupé. A long bonnet and a wide-rear track create an athletic prowess, while the sweeping lines give it a profile that glides effortlessly through the night.
Shades of darkness envelop Wraith Black Badge’s iconic features, adding even more drama to its presence. The Spirit of Ecstasy is cast in high-gloss dark chrome, forging a path through the shadows atop a powerful front grille. Paint is deepened to intense new levels of black, with dark chrome air inlets, boot lid finisher and twin exhaust pipes adding an eye-catching edge. The black Rolls-Royce badge is the final touch: a bold statement of defiance.
Wraith Black Badge’s dynamic profile is enhanced by a pitch black surface and striking 21” wheels. Developed exclusively for Black Badge, the carbon fibre composite rims are sculpted to stand out, taking their design cue from Italian supercars of the 1960s.
Attitude starts from within. With its horseshoe sweep and curved leather seats, the interior of Wraith Black Badge cocoons you in an aura of confidence. Behind the wheel, you feel like anything is possible. Like the night is infinite.
The cabin is transformed by a darker interpretation of luxury. Carbon fibre and aluminium threads are skilfully woven together to create the stunning technical fibre fascia. This innovative material, normally seen on the surface of stealth aircrafts, glitters temptingly in the darkness of the cabin. Sharpening your senses and enhancing the thrill of the drive.
Set into the dashboard is the newly created Black Badge clock – its hands tipped in orange to provide a subtle, but potent contrast to the rest of the interior. The clock features the infinity logo, a nod to Black Badge’s daring attitude and desire to push limits. The logo is also handstitched into Wraith’s luxury leather seats, which are tailored here in Black and Cobalto Blue leather.
Delivering a phenomenal 624bhp (465kw), Wraith is already the most powerful Rolls-Royce in the world. But with the added edge of Black Badge, engineering has been enhanced even further. Torque is increased to 870Nm, handling is more dynamic and contact with the road intensified for a thrilling driving experience.
To create Wraith Black Badge, the engineering team at the Home of Rolls-Royce have pushed the boundaries of performance. The fastback coupé’s 6.6 litre V12 engine has been paired with a brand new 8-speed automatic gearbox that delivers an extra wave of torque. Responses are sharpened with Intuitive Throttle Response, which allows gears to hold for longer and the engine to rev more readily.
Steering and braking responses are sharpened, giving you more control and increasing contact with the road. But even as the pace increases, Wraith Black Badge maintains the signature Rolls-Royce magic carpet ride. Upgrades to the intelligent air suspension system delivers a cool composure over any surface.
The technology inside Wraith Black Badge doesn’t compromise either. Satellite Aided Transmission automatically selects the right gear by predicting the road ahead, while new automatic LED headlights provide night vision as you cruise through the darkness.