Though based off the Phantom, the 100 EX incorporates its own special design changes giving it a completely unique personality. For instance the Phantom is extremely long at about six-meters (near 20-feet), not suitable for a convertible due to cowl flex. To make it rigid enough for reasonable handling the wheelbase has been chopped by 100 mm (3.9 inches). Its odd, how despite having a larger engine the car on the whole is smaller. Total length is now 5.67 meters (223 inches), 1.99 meters (78.3 inches) wide and 1.56 meters (61.4 inches) tall. By any comparison this is still a very large car!
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| Although sharing many architectural elements from the Phantom, the biggest difference in the EX is its reduction in length. (Photo: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars) |
Many of the structural components, however, have been carried over without change. As this is an operational concept with a working motor, it should be assumed that it can be driven. Though only a fortunate few will ever have the opportunity to sample the suppleness of the car's double wishbone and multi link air suspension, or the crispness of its rack and pinion steering system, Rolls-Royce enthusiasts can rest assured that the EX is about as 'R-R' as a car can be. One change to note, however, is that the new concept rides on conventional tires, 255/50R21 up front and 285/45R21 in the rear by the way, as opposed to the Michelin PAX tires that the Phantom uses.
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| Paying homage to Rolls' first V8 powered sedans, the EX features a striking aluminum and black exterior. (Photo: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars) |
The first styling experiment can be seen head on. Though these photos may seem to reflect a conventional black and silver paint job, a closer view will establish that the silver portion is in fact brushed aluminum. It extends for the entire length of the hood and continues up the steeply raked windshield, acting as a surround to the glass. The scheme pays homage to Rolls' first V8 powered sedans. Though the 100 EX carries the marque's trademark flying lady (crafted of sterling silver no less) and dominating waterfall grille, purists will shudder when noticing that the grille is convex and angled, rather than upright. The shape of the headlamps carries over from the Phantom, but they're smaller and thinner. Powerful LED technology allows for the thin lamps, backed by circular lamps below. This look is very similar to one of the five original clay Phantom design mockups.