by Rolls-Royce’s new electric crossover will have a split-opening hood. It features a central spine as well as two outer panels that lift up. SUV will likely mix BMW Neue Klasse tech with Spectre developments.
Testing the New Crossover
Rolls-Royce is working on an electric crossover that will compete with the Bentley Barnato. Recently, spy photographers captured a prototype of this model during testing in Munich. This is interesting in itself, but what is even more remarkable is that the model appears to have an old-fashioned split hood.
Thanks to a powerful camera lens, it can be seen that the “hood” will have a central spine section with a retractable “Spirit of Ecstasy” figurine on the front. On both sides, there are two movable panels that, judging by everything, lift upwards, similar to a trunk lid.
Read more: The Next Rolls-Royce Cullinan Will Change Much More Than You Think
Rolls-Royce filed a patent for this idea back in 2024, and it gives a good idea of what to expect. We can also see what appears to be a hinge at the front of the hood, although when zoomed in, it looks like a drill bit with a cross-shaped tip.
Design and Features
Apart from the forgotten tools, the crossover has a fully enclosed radiator grille with a camera mounted on top. It is flanked by separate lighting units, including lower headlights with the “RR” logo. The model also has a wide lower air intake grille with horizontal slats.
The rest of the design is much more conventional and closely echoes the current Cullinan. As a result, there is a clear shoulder line and straight body contours. They are complemented by a recognizable window line, a relatively flat roof, and a thick rear pillar.
Rear and Technical Details
The sense of déjà vu continues at the rear, but the electric vehicle has a unique bumper that lacks exhaust outlets. This bumper also houses a license plate recess, which is a change, as on the Cullinan it is attached to the tailgate.
These similarities initially led us to think this is a second-generation Cullinan model. However, there are suggestions that the two crossovers could coexist alongside each other – at least initially.
Technology and Future
For now, there are more questions than answers, but the model will undoubtedly follow in the footsteps of the Spectre. That coupe is equipped with a 102 kWh battery pack, as well as an all-wheel-drive system with two motors producing 577 hp (430 kW) and 900 Nm of torque.
This allows the model to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.4 seconds and have a WLTP range of 329 miles (530 km). A more powerful Black Badge version with 650 hp (485 kW) and 1075 Nm of torque may also appear.
However, the crossover may benefit from the latest technologies, such as the updated 7 Series. BMW recently announced that the flagship sedan will receive their Gen6 eDrive technology, which will include a lithium-ion battery with cylindrical cells and 20% higher energy density. The model is also expected to integrate some other achievements of the Neue Klasse architecture.
The revival of the split hood in the era of electric vehicles is an interesting step that combines classic aesthetics with modern technology. Such a design not only emphasizes the brand’s heritage but may also have practical advantages for maintenance. Competition in the luxury electric crossover segment is intensifying, and the appearance of a new Rolls-Royce is likely to set new standards for combining traditional luxury, innovative design, and high-tech electric powertrain. The model’s success will depend on how successfully it manages to integrate the latest BMW developments while preserving the unique character of Rolls-Royce.
