Innovative technology, environmentally friendly, ultra-modern design, higher comfort and superior quality combined with brand glitterati. Yes, we are referring to the ultra-luxury segment of the automobile industry.
This premium brand, coupled with the latest eco-technology of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, takes our automobiles to new heights. Hybrids, by nature, bag the eco-friendly tag with improved fuel efficiency and energy resilience. Plug-in hybrids, in comparison to electric cars, counter the risk of the vehicle becoming stranded, as the gasoline engine provides back-up to the battery.
As the market of hybrids continues to increase, charging stations are becoming more accessible around the world. Alternatively, as the market of electric vehicles rise, the next generation of battery technology may never need a battery swap. Talk about convenience!
Combining state-of-the-art technology and engineering, with timeless contemporary design. Let’s take a glance at four top eco-luxury brands on the market.
Experimental Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom
Rolls-Royce 102EX, also known as the Phantom Experimental Electric (EE), is the latest design of the company’s experimental electric cars. Its single-speed transmission is powered by two electric engines and the pre-launch tests boast of a driving range of up to 124 miles. The battery holds an average density of 230Wh/kg; which is crucial in regulating battery recharges. Alternatively, an induction charger is included, which enables wireless charging. So toss the plug and charge hands free! Although this experimental car was pulled out of the market, due to the lack of consumer demand, they are considering a plug-in hybrid as a more palatable consumer choice.
Rolls-Royce Concept Hybrid
The Rolls-Royce hybrid is next in line for development and is expected to launch within the next few years. Proceeding with a hybrid powertrain, it will borrow the concept from its parent company BMW. Currently this concept car promises whopping performance with a power output of 388 hp.
Experimental Electric Lamborghini
Lamborghini launches its first ever LPI-910-4 Asterion plug-in hybrid, which takes the heritage of the brand to greener heights. Armed with three electric motors powered by lithium ion batteries; in total, the car brings 910 hp to the table. LPI-910-4 uses just 4.12 liters of gas to go 57 miles per gallon.
Bentley Concept Hybrid
The latest buzz in the auto world is Bentley’s plug-in hybrid, Mulsanne. This envied machine gives an output of 631 bhp, with only 118 g of carbon emissions per kilometer. It can drive 310 miles on the electric option, promising zero emissions before falling back to the engine. It combines petrol and electric power to run, and can be recharged using a normal AC home outlet.
So what is the difference between an experimental car and a concept car? An experimental car (as the name suggests), is designed and used to test new technologies. Depending on consumer feedback, these cars either advance into further production or are stopped. Experimental cars are fully functional, drivable vehicles; whereas a concept vehicle is a prototype, which is produced to showcase the latest technology and designing features. Launched mainly at motor shows, these automobiles don’t go for production directly. Instead, it undergoes many design and feature changes before honing on the final design.
With leading brands in the eco-luxury auto market, technology has taken a leap in creating a better future. Hybrid cars have been touted as the green savior of the automobile industry and electric cars are praised for pushing out fewer emissions. Whatever your spice of car, you are taking steps towards a greener planet, achieved through petroleum displacement and energy resilience.