Rolls-Royce Motor Cars have announced that they have begun testing their new all-aluminium space-frame architecture that will underpin all new cars from 2018.
Rolls-Royce had announced the development of an all-new aluminium space-frame architecture that would underpin all future Rolls-Royce models arriving in market from early 2018 back in February 2015. The company has now announced that it has begun the testing phase of this new architecture, with new (and still large) mules being tested around the world as part of early preparatory activity.
The tests will ensure that the new space-frame structure perfectly delivers on Rolls-Royce’s trademark ‘magic-carpet ride’ on a variety of surfaces as well as resilient in extreme weather conditions. The assessment of the new proprietary architecture is the first stage of a development programme that will see a new generation of Rolls-Royce motor cars become available from early 2018.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said, “Since 2003 and the commissioning of the new Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has reset the benchmark for luxury motoring. Now it is time to take the next step in the luxury journey. This is why I am announcing today that on-road testing of our all-new proprietary architecture is beginning. This new architecture of pure luxury represents considerable investment in the future of our great brand.”
Rolls-Royce presently offer the Ghost and Phantom in standard and long wheelbase guises, the Wraith fastback coupé, Phantom Coupé and Drophead and the new Dawn convertible, with the all-new ‘Cullinan’ super-luxury crossover also set to arrive. Whether the weight-loss will see lighter, more efficient engines come in remains to be seen. The company presently essentially uses just two engines: a 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 and a 6.75-litre naturally-aspirated V12, both petrols; the latter seen only in the Phantom.
Story: Jim Gorde
