Rolls-Royce has always prided itself on the quietness of its luxury cars, which is why it uses names like Phantom, Ghost, and Spectre. So a near-silent electric train would seem like a good fit.
The UK's Evice certainly thinks so. It's the latest in companies marketing electric conversions of classic cars, and its first project is the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow sedan. Known internally as XP1, it is a prototype conversion package in both the Silver Shadow and Corniche convertible that Evice hopes to start offering to customers Spring 2026.
The prototype has 77-kwh battery pack it offers a rated range of over 200 miles, roughly as measured by the mild WLTP test cycle, and an 800-volt electrical system.
Prototype Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow EV by Evice
The output is 400hp-much more than the original V-8 gasoline engine. The Evice also claims to improve the brakes, while the active suspension aims to provide the same cushion as the original hydra-pneumatic suspension (derived from Citroën tech) with a greater level of grip.
The interior features modern climate control and audio systems, as well as heated and ventilated adjustable seats and an infotainment system with a touch screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and a rear camera.
Many other companies are restoring classic electric cars with modern powertrains—including classic Rolls-Royces. Another UK company, Lunaz, made electric conversions for the 1956 Rolls-Royce Cloud and 1961 Rolls-Royce Phantom V, as well as Bentley and Jaguar models.
Rolls-Royce Silver Corniche EV by Evice
A few of these have been made, or approved, by automakers looking to integrate their heritage with current electrification systems. Yet another UK company, Electrogenic, has created a Kia Pride EV restomod to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the car maker. Students recently converted an Audi A2—a European-market hatchback that was a fuel-economy benchmark when new—into an EV.
And now it is possible buy a new electric Rolls-Royce from the factory—the Specter coupe. The storied brand is looking to shake its reputation of portly cars and heavily-washed V-12 engines by going electric before the end of the decade.