Rolls-Royce is gearing up for the upcoming solar eclipse set to grace parts of the Western Hemisphere this weekend, and they’re doing so in opulent style. The renowned British automaker is commemorating this annual celestial event with a new and exclusive model known as the Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis. This stately saloon exudes a celestial charm with its unique design elements and an incredibly innovative animated headliner, and it’s not an everyday Rolls-Royce – only 25 examples will ever be produced.
Every Ékleipsis is coated in a specially crafted paint finish known as Lyrical Copper. Initially appearing dark, the finish transforms with the play of light, creating a mesmerizing iridescence, as described by the automaker. The Lyrical Copper exterior is accentuated by flashes of Mandarin adorning the inserts below the darkened chrome grille and the brake calipers. This same striking hue is elegantly utilized for a hand-painted coachline that graces the side of the vehicle, adding to its distinct allure.
Step into the interior, and you’ll find it swathed in a combination of black and Mandarin leather, creating a luxurious ambiance that complements the celestial theme. The illuminated dashboard stands out as a masterpiece of intricate artwork, depicting the various stages of an eclipse. A painstaking process of laser etching has created a staggering 1,846 “stars” on the dashboard, demanding over 100 hours of painstaking craftsmanship. However, the most remarkable feature is the animated headliner. When the doors are closed and the engine is ignited, a circle of 940 “stars” radiates, symbolizing the ethereal corona of light visible around the moon during an eclipse. Additionally, 192 LEDs simulate the stars that emerge in the darkened sky. The full animation sequence mesmerizingly unfolds for a duration of 7 minutes and 31 seconds, perfectly mirroring the longest possible duration of a total solar eclipse.
While the exterior and interior of the Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis have undergone a bespoke transformation, Rolls-Royce has chosen to leave the formidable engine and other hardware untouched. This is no surprise, as the twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V-12 engine is already a force to be reckoned with. Coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it churns out a remarkable 591 horsepower and an impressive 664 foot-pounds of torque. These power figures enable the vehicle to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in a swift 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 155 mph.
Regrettably, every single example of the Ékleipsis has been swiftly claimed, making it a highly sought-after and exclusive gem for a fortunate few. While Rolls-Royce has opted to keep the exact pricing under wraps, it’s a safe bet that the cost far exceeds the standard Black Badge Ghost’s starting price of $399,895, considering its unique features and limited availability. The Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis serves as a testament to Rolls-Royce’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and innovation, ensuring that even celestial events are celebrated with the utmost luxury and style.
