On August 30th, 2002 the last Rolls-Royce rolled off the 'assembly line'. The Silver Storm colored Corniche convertible is shown alongside the 1907 Silver Ghost that inspired the new cars unique interior design. While the last of Crewe Rolls-Royce manufacture marks the literal end of an era, September 16th heralds the dawn of production in a new plant in the south of England, and what will undoubtedly be the most technically advanced Rolls-Royce models ever.
New promising beginnings lie ahead for the world's most recognizable premium brand. The new model is said to be 5,791 mm (19 ft) in length and close to 1,500 mm (59.0 in) tall. A traditionally long hood is capped by the iconic Silver Lady hood ornament, now motorized to drop within a grille-top recess to foil potential vandals. Rear suicide doors will eliminate the need for B-pillars, widening both front and rear access while offering an airy ambience.
While an estimated 2,300 to 2,700 kg (5,000 to 6,000 lb) might seem overly heavy compared to run of the mill luxury cars, it's relatively spry for a Rolls-Royce. Massive as it may seem the estimated 6.7-L BMW derived V12 should make haste to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds - adequate enough. Expect a version of the BMW 7-Series ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential manual operation and steering wheel mounted buttons.
Components are constructed extensively from aluminum and lightweight composite materials increasing strength and durability while reducing curb weight. The 21-inch wheels are also made of aluminum as is the fully-independent suspension system, which bodes well for its handling characteristics. Expect the latest in braking technology as well as a version of BMW's DSCIII dynamic stability control. It's unknown if Rolls-Royce will adapt a variation of the controversial i-Drive system employed in the current 7-Series, but it is expected to incorporate the latest in electronics including drive-by-wire technology.