An Electric Rolls Royce Phantom in the Works?

In brief: Insiders in the UK are saying that Rolls Royce has been quietly working on an all-electric Phantom, hoping to have it in production in time for the 2012 Olympics.

Vehicle in the news

Make/Model: Phantom
Manufacturer: Rolls Royce

The word

AutoCar says that an insider has told them the new electric Phantom might be on the road (likely as a prototype) within a year.

If so, this project at Rolls would be one of the stealthiest coupes in the automotive industry, as little has been speculated or forthcoming on the subject.

While the company has talked about a plan to release an electric car model in the past, it was hardly headline-grabbing news. At that time, late in 2008, every car manufacturer was saying the same thing.

Given that the Phantom is known for it's nearly silent operation, it's understated, high-end technology, and distinctive looks, it would not be out of place for an electric version to become reality.

And so ...

Time will tell on this rumor, of course. It's a juicy one, though, and could create a real stir as Olympic VIPs are shuttled around in quiet, efficient electric Phantoms.

Photo credits: Rolls Royce

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