The illutstrious car brand debuts the new Phantom Drophead Coupé
In an unprecedented move, Rolls-Royce has introduced a convertible version of their ever-popular Phantom, dubbed the Phantom Drophead Coupé. The two-door, four-seat convertible is a less formal interpretation of classic Rolls-Royce design. Using the lightweight rigidity of an all-aluminum space frame, it marries modern technology to a sleek, streamlined convertible body. Its exterior lines echo the timeless styling of the great Rolls-Royce cars: a long bonnet, large-diameter wheels, short front and long rear overhangs, and the quintessential dynamic line descending along its flanks. Inside, the design emphasizes the airy openness of top-down motoring, embracing the elements and creating a stunning, social environment.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Designer, Ian Cameron, said, “This car gave us the chance to think about the very nature of convertible motoring, and, in particular, what it means to Rolls-Royce. Above all, we were determined to make this car a joy to live with, and engineered it to give years of effortless service to its owner.”
A number of features first seen on 100EX, the experimental convertible shown by Rolls-Royce in 2004, have been engineered into the new Phantom Drophead Coupé. Two of the most visually striking of these are the brushed steel bonnet and A-pillar, and the teak decking for the rear hood cover. The brushed steel is machine-finished to give a uniform grain before undergoing extensive hand polishing to achieve a perfect sheen. At the rear, the teak decking is treated with a carefully blended mix of oils to preserve a natural finish and a long lasting luster that is as beautiful as it is hardy.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chairman and Chief Executive, Ian Robertson, said, “The Phantom Drophead Coupé marks the next chapter in our history. While the Saloon continues as the brand flagship, the Drophead leads us in a more informal direction, attracting new buyers to the marquee. In the coming years other new models will strengthen the company still further.”
The Phantom Drophead Coupé has been carefully crafted to be aesthetically pleasing, yet practical too. Wood, leather, chrome and brushed steel have been used where most appropriate; form and function have equal billing. The simplicity of the design belies a car built to provide years of effortless service. It will offer owners an unparalleled convertible experience, combining compelling drivability with exceptional engineering, technology, and design – hand crafted from the finest materials to an exceptional level of quality.
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July 2, 2007Sebastian + Barquet
