Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé makes Singapore debut

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled the Phantom Drophead Coupé today in Singapore, making this the first appearance of the new two-door, four-seat convertible here.

The launch of the new convertible model follows an exceedingly positive international reaction to the 100EX Experimental convertible car.

Rolls-Royce Regional Director for Asia Pacific, Colin Kelly, said, "The Phantom Drophead Coupé is entirely true to the values of Rolls-Royce and attracts a new segment of discerning clients, offering them an unparalleled motoring experience that combines compelling driveability with exceptional engineering, technology and design."

The car has received overwhelming response worldwide from a newer, more diverse clientele base - more than half the orders placed for the car are from customers who have never owned a Rolls-Royce before - that production slots for the car have been fully allocated till 2008.

"We have received significant orders for new Phantom Drophead Coupés in Singapore with the first order expected to arrive here before the end of the year. This initial demand augurs well not only for Singapore, but for the region too," continued Mr Kelly.


Exclusivity

Hand-crafted using the finest quality materials to the exacting standards of Rolls-Royce, the new Phantom Drophead Coupé is attracting new buyers to the brand. Only 200 cars are expected to be produced in a full manufacturing year.

Strength

Using the combination of lightweight rigidity and strength of an advanced all-aluminium spaceframe, the Phantom Drophead Coupé 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 emphasises the airy openness of top-down motoring, embracing the elements and creating a stunning, social environment.

The advanced aluminium spaceframe is at the heart of the car's refined, dynamic driving experience, impacting positively on ride, comfort and safety. Its inherent rigidity is essential in isolating vibration and - with the 6.75 litre V12 engine producing 75 percent of its engine power at just 1000rpm - helps deliver the hushed and effortless progress associated with a Rolls-Royce car. The new model is shorter than the Phantom by 225 mm, so turn-in is slightly quicker, making for a wholly more agile driving experience.

Designed without compromise

When creating the Phantom Drophead Coupé, the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars' design team drew inspiration from the thrilling lines of classic J-class racing yachts of the 1930s. The fastest and most exotic yachts of their time, these pedigree vessels possessed a spectacular combination of ability, versatility and fitness for purpose. The use of chrome, leather and wood for the interior, and brushed steel bonnet of the exterior - design highlights first seen in the 100EX experimental car - further combine to give a 21st century interpretation of a classic Grand Touring coupé.

Some of the other unique design features of the Phantom Drophead Coupé include:

•	A rear teak deck. The bonnet is machine-brushed before being hand finished to ensure a uniform grain throughout;
•	A picnic boot with a split tail compartment which opens in two parts, giving easy access to 315 litres of space. The lower tailgate provides a comfortable seating platform for two adults when lowered;
•	A fabric hood which is the largest of any modern convertible car and uses five layers of material to insulate the interior;
•	Elegant, rear-hinged coach doors unique to Rolls-Royce. The driver and passenger step in rather than fall backwards into the car.

The new Drophead Coupé completes a three-model line-up for Rolls-Royce in Singapore, joining the Phantom and Phantom Extended Wheelbase.