Exemplary Talent For Motorcar Design: Rolls- Royce Celebrates 120 Years
The prestigious Festival of Speed, set on the breathtaking grounds of the historic Goodwood Estate, is an important highlight of the motorsport calendar year.
Included in this celebration was the epitome of powerhouse vehicle design: Rolls-Royce. The ultra-luxury car maker showcased its unparalleled craftsmanship with the unveiling of four breathtaking creations. Models including the iconic marque’s signature SUV Cullinan that featured a public début in the UK of the Cullinan Series II alongside the Spectre, an all-electric super coupé finished in a vivacious two-tone, as well as a highly bespoke Phantom Extended and a unique expression of its Ghost. These “Contemporary Expressions,” as Rolls-Royce describes them, offer a deep exploration of the brand’s legendary qualities.
Cullinan II builds on the legacy of the world’s most coveted luxury SUV by incorporating a key theme of “verticality” inspired by the illuminated skyscrapers of the megacities where the Cullinan is seen to best advantage. This iteration is distinguished by its redesigned lamps and striking exterior finish of Emperador Truffle, a minimalist hue inspired by brown marble. The interior takes sophistication for a ride with its luxurious palette of Cashmere Grey and Chartreuse leather, elevated with an intricate pattern of “placed perforation” another illustration of Rolls-Royce’s commitment to tailored craftsmanship. A notable addition to the Cullinan Series II is the integration of the marque’s iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurine displayed within the cabin of the vehicle for the first time, encased in a unique, illuminated clock cabinet on the dashboard.
Moving from fossil fuel to environmental consciousness is the all-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre, captivating attendees at Laundry Green. Making its dynamic début at Goodwood a year ago, the super coupé marks the dawn of a new sustainable era for Rolls-Royce; Spectre defines blending signature luxury with cutting- edge technology. Made specially for the Festival of Speed, Spectre was presented by Rolls-Royce in a stunning two-tone Peony Pearl and Black Diamond finish, exhibiting yet again the modern opulence that is to be expected of the marque. A genre-defining car like this needs no frills to boast its presence and prowess, yet Spectre is still fitted with 23-inch wheels under its frame. On the interior, Spectre features a celestial night sky illuminated by the Starlight headliner and accompanying Starlight doors that are adorned by nearly 5,000 “stars” adding to the luxurious ambiance of the cabin.
To commemorate the 120th anniversary of the first meeting between the Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls and Henry Royce, each of the one-of-a-kind Phantom, Ghost and Spectre vehicles created for the event offers a gentle nod to this significant year. Situated on the centre console is a painted sound wave design that can be deciphered as inspirational quotes from the founding men. Their collective vision underscores the very ethos of Rolls-Royce today.
Phantom plays a legendary role as an icon that defines the parameters of luxury, a perfectly crafted masterpiece that transcends what is possible for motorcars Phantom Extended offers tastemakers a spacious cabin matched with serene furnishings of their choosing. Behind a seamless glass gallery you can display a treasured artwork to admire while you recharge before taking on the world. This unique car is finished in a striking two-tone Diba Teal and Black Diamond coat, with a Black coachline inspired by the French Riviera, as if glamour could be any more evocative than that.
As its name implies, The Ghost is a study in reduction, minimalism and simplification. The purity it provides allows an owner to truly create on the blank canvas of an ultra-luxury car. Bespoke commissions thrive in this class of vehicle and customers can be as ambitious with their creativity and personal tastes as they wish. The Ghost offers virtually no technical or esthetic constraints. Curated in a Blue Crystal over Black finish, the Honorary edition of Ghost marks the occasion by providing a masterclass of timeless elegance and sophistication.