Rolls-Royce has established a strict policy regarding the resale of its new electric vehicle (EV), the Spectre. Priced at an impressive $425,000 and with limited availability, prospective buyers should think twice before attempting to profit from reselling the car. CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös has stated that any customer who sells their Spectre for a profit will be permanently banned from purchasing another Rolls-Royce from authorized dealers. To ensure compliance, the company is implementing a stringent qualification process for buyers, requiring them to prove their intentions and eligibility before securing an order.
Rolls-Royce is not the first automaker to impose restrictions on flipping their vehicles. In a similar move, General Motors (GM) announced last year that buyers of Hummer EVs, Corvette Z06s, and other models would be prohibited from reselling within 12 months, with the possibility of certain warranties becoming non-transferable. GM also incentivized customers by offering $5,000 in reward points for those who retained their eighth-generation Corvette Z06s for at least one year.
Rolls-Royce’s rules, however, are more stringent, as they carry the consequence of a lifetime ban. While some secondhand dealers express discontent, citing their prior agreement to pay a £50,000 ($65,000) premium for two Spectre EVs that they intended to sell shortly after the launch, others argue against automakers dictating what customers can do with their high-priced vehicles. A dealer from London expressed his opinion, stating, “I do not think it is fair for carmakers to tell customers who have spent close to half a million pounds on a car what they can do with it.”
Despite these concerns, the Rolls-Royce Spectre has generally received positive reviews, which is expected considering its exorbitant price tag. Equipped with a 102kWh battery pack, it offers a range of 329 miles according to the WLTP standard. With a powertrain generating 576 HP and 664 pound-feet of torque, the vehicle, weighing 2.9 tonnes (3.19 tons), is surprisingly agile. Autocar aptly described the experience as akin to “closing the door on the world, like a house deep in parkland,” though acquiring an actual parkland house might prove to be a more cost-effective endeavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about resale ban
What is the resale policy for Rolls-Royce’s new EV, the Spectre?
Rolls-Royce has implemented a strict policy that prohibits customers from reselling the Spectre EV for profit. Any customers found violating this policy will be permanently banned from purchasing another Rolls-Royce from authorized dealers.
Are there similar restrictions on reselling luxury vehicles from other manufacturers?
Yes, other manufacturers like General Motors (GM) have also imposed restrictions on flipping their vehicles. GM announced a ban on reselling Hummer EVs, Corvette Z06s, and other models within 12 months. They also introduced non-transferable warranties and offered incentives to customers who retained their vehicles for a specific duration.
How is the Rolls-Royce Spectre being received by customers and reviewers?
The Rolls-Royce Spectre has generally received positive reviews. Its impressive features include a 102kWh battery pack providing a 329-mile WLTP range and a powerful 576 HP/664 pound-feet powertrain. Reviewers have praised its luxurious feel and the unique experience it offers to owners.
What are the opinions of secondhand dealers regarding Rolls-Royce’s resale ban?
Opinions among secondhand dealers are divided. Some express dissatisfaction, as they may have already made arrangements to purchase Spectre EVs for resale. They argue against automakers dictating what customers can do with their expensive vehicles. However, others support the ban, believing it helps maintain exclusivity and protects the brand’s image.
How strict are the restrictions imposed by Rolls-Royce compared to other manufacturers?
Rolls-Royce’s resale ban is more stringent than that of other manufacturers. While some companies restrict reselling for a certain duration, Rolls-Royce imposes a lifetime ban on customers who sell the Spectre EV for profit. This policy aims to deter speculators and ensure that the limited supply of Spectre models is primarily accessible to genuine buyers.
More about resale ban
- Rolls-Royce Bans Customers from Reselling Spectre EV for Profit
- General Motors Implements Restrictions on Vehicle Flipping
- Review of Rolls-Royce Spectre EV
- Dealers’ Opinions on Rolls-Royce’s Resale Ban
- Comparison of Resale Restrictions by Automakers
