Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Bentley working on new sub-Continental shooting brake and crossover?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/bentley-working-on-new-sub-continental-shooting-brake-and-crosso/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/bentley-working-on-new-sub-continental-shooting-brake-and-crosso/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/bentley-working-on-new-sub-continental-shooting-brake-and-crosso/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Bentley Continental Supersports - Click above for high-res image gallery

Bentley has just supplanted the Jurassic-era Arnage with the new Mulsanne, which in turn will breed replacements for the Brooklands and Azure. A new Continental range is on the way as well. But according to a new report from Automobile Magazine, the crew from Crewe isn't content simply replacing existing models: they want to branch out. And when their heads are already scraping the sky, Bentley is reportedly looking at going downmarket with two new niche models.

Tentatively known as the New Compact Bentley (NCB) project, the luxury automaker hopes to cover new territory in the $110-130,000 range in two forms: a three-door shooting brake and a segment-busting crossover. The latter would be more of a tall wagon than a sport-ute, as Automobile notes that Bentley chief Franz-Josef Paefgen was responsible for the original Audi Allroad but opposed the Q7.

Platform underpinnings for both would reportedly be based loosely on the next-gen Audi A6/A7 flexible architecture and powered by an Audi-based 4.5-liter twin-turbo V8 driving somewhere in the neighborhood of 550 horsepower through all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Production would reportedly be pegged around 7500 units annually, but Bentley might find it doesn't have the market all to itself, as Rolls-Royce is said to be working on a Ghost-based crossover of its own known as the "Short High Rugged International Metropolitan Project" - or SHRIMP for short.


Gallery: Bentley Continental Supersports


[Source: Automobile Magazine]

Bentley working on new sub-Continental shooting brake and crossover? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley crossoverbentley ncbbentley shooting brakeBentleyCrossoverBentleyNcbBentleyShootingBrakencbnew compact bentleyNewCompactBentleyrolls-roycerolls-royce shrimpRolls-royceShrimpshort high rugged international metropolitan projectShortHighRuggedInternationalMetropolitanProjectTue, 24 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom could arrive within a year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-could-arrive-within-a-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-could-arrive-within-a-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-could-arrive-within-a-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Adding fuel to the rumormill fire, Autocar reports that a pure electric version of the Rolls-Royce Phantom could hit the streets within 12 months. Rolls' parent company, BMW, has been getting heavily involved in EVs and the Phantom would be an obvious choice to launch its new drivetrain considering the price premium already tacked onto the brand's offerings.

Since Phantom owners tend to be driven rather than drive and rarely use their luxo-barges for long road trips (that's what the jet is for), the decision to offer an EV Phantom makes sense on many levels. Given the size and mass of the Phantom, the bulk of the batteries wouldn't affect performance or comfort, and cost... well, that's not an issue when you're dealing with $300,000+ vehicles. In spite of that, Rolls-Royce may end up only leasing the initial batch of electric Phantoms in small numbers just as BMW has done with the MINI E.


Gallery: 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom could arrive within a year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric rollselectric rolls royceelectric rolls-royceElectricRollsElectricRolls-royceElectricRollsRoycerollsrolls royceRolls Royce PhantomRolls Royce Phantom Electricrolls-royceRolls-Royce PhantomRolls-roycePhantomRollsRoyceRollsRoycePhantomRollsRoycePhantomElectricThu, 19 Nov 2009 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Pixie of Ecstasy: Rolls-Royce edition Mini reportedly confirmed for custom order]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/pixie-of-ecstasy-rolls-royce-edition-mini-reportedly-confirmed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/pixie-of-ecstasy-rolls-royce-edition-mini-reportedly-confirmed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/pixie-of-ecstasy-rolls-royce-edition-mini-reportedly-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mini Rolls-Royce special for Park Lane - Click above for image gallery

It's been about half a year since the initial reports of a Rolls-Royce edition Mini first surfaced, and nearly as long since the first batch of photos emerged. But rumors persist, and now reports from the UK indicate that mutual parent company BMW has given the green light for a series of Rolls-style accoutrements for the iconic retro-hatch.

Following market trends that seem to indicate that, in Europe especially, buyers aren't willing to give up on luxury when they go for more compact, fuel-efficient rides, the specially-trimmed Minis would offer customers a range of customization options suitable for a Phantom yet packed into a Cooper. But rather than outfitting Minis with stock luxury trim packages - like Aston Martin is preparing to do with the iQ-based Cygnet - the exclusive Mini hatchbacks would be outfitted at the Rolls-Royce factory according to individual customer orders. Clients would be able to choose from the best leathers and veneers to give their Minis a more upscale feel, much like the coachbuilt Minis popular amongst British celebs like Harold Radford and The Beatles in the '60s, but available through established dealers in a more organized fashion.

Unfortunately, that's about all the information available at this point, but sources suggest a public announcement sometime next year.


Gallery: Rolls MINI for Park Lane


[Source: Autocar]

Pixie of Ecstasy: Rolls-Royce edition Mini reportedly confirmed for custom order originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>luxury hatchLuxuryHatchmini park lanemini rolls-royceMiniParkLaneMiniRolls-roycepark lane miniParkLaneMinirolls-roycerolls-royce edition minirolls-royce miniRolls-royceEditionMiniRolls-royceMiniThu, 19 Nov 2009 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: German armor company blows the crap out of a Rolls-Royce]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-german-armor-company-blows-the-crap-out-of-a-rolls-royce/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-german-armor-company-blows-the-crap-out-of-a-rolls-royce/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-german-armor-company-blows-the-crap-out-of-a-rolls-royce/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view the video after the jump

Why on earth would you deliberately shoot a Rolls-Royce and try your darnedest to blow it off the road? Well, because it looks like fun, that's why. But at a third of a million dollars, you should have a better reason than an appetite for destruction and a wad of cash burning a hole in your pocket like so many rounds from an assault rifle.

Fortunately, Mutec has such a reason. The German firm armors up luxury sedans and vehicles of all kinds for customers around the world. In this case, they've worked an undisclosed amount of bulletproofing and bomb-resistant armor into an extended-wheelbase Phantom, and then went to work on it with more fire power than Donald Trump commanding a marine batallion. And since we're not likely to do the same in this lifetime, we might as well enjoy the video after the jump, with our thanks to Patrick and Julio for sending in the tip.

[Source: Bentley Spotting via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: German armor company blows the crap out of a Rolls-Royce

VIDEO: German armor company blows the crap out of a Rolls-Royce originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorarmored rolls-royceArmoredRolls-roycearmourmutecphantomrollsrolls-royceRolls-Royce PhantomRolls-Royce Phantom Armouredrolls-royce phantom ewbrolls-royce phantom lwbRolls-roycePhantomRolls-roycePhantomArmouredRolls-roycePhantomEwbRolls-roycePhantomLwbTue, 20 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Nat Geo airing <i>Ultimate Factories</i> on Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, Camaro and Porsche]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/video-nat-geo-airing-i-ultimate-factories-i-on-lamborghini/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/video-nat-geo-airing-i-ultimate-factories-i-on-lamborghini/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/video-nat-geo-airing-i-ultimate-factories-i-on-lamborghini/#commentsFiled under: ,

Lamborghini Factory in Sant'Agata - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's a reason cable is kicking so much network butt these days. No, not Deadliest Catch. Well, okay, Deadliest Catch and shows like the National Geographic Channel's Ultimate Factories. What is Ultimate Factories you ask? It's a show where a camera crew runs around the world checking out some really cool factories, that's what. Think Budweiser, Ikea and the place where they build M1 tanks. However, the show spends most of its time (and rightly so) on cars.

For example, we chose the Lamborghini picture as the lead for this post because A) that's the (drool) LP670-4 SV B) the Lambo factory episode already aired last week. From all accounts, it was super fantastic good, especially if you're into raging bulls. Missed it? Do not fear, however, as reruns are currently (re)running. But even if you missed the Lamborghini episode, there are some upcoming shows that will certainly pique your interest.

This Thursday, October 8, is the Rolls-Royce factory where Nat Geo explores the Rolls-Royce Phantom, a car that takes 450 hours to build. On October 15 they visit the Oshawa plant where the new Chevrolet Camaro is built. Unlike the largely hand-built Phantom, it takes 734 robots (plus a human or two) just 18 hours to build a Camaro, with one coming off the line every minutes. Check this out: every Camaro produced so far has an owner.

On October 22, Ultimate Factories visits Stuttgart to spend some time with the Porsche 911. Turns out that National Geographic is smarter than they look because the very next week - October 29 - they visit Bowling Green, Kentucky where the Corvette is made. Why smart? Would you want eleventy billion Corvette owners writing you hate mail all stating, "OMG. My C5 can smoke that Volkswagen. LOL?" Make the jump to watch some previews - including one with a guest appearance by our pal Valentino Balboni.


Gallery: National Geogrphic Ultimate Factories


[Source: National Geographic]

Continue reading VIDEO: Nat Geo airing Ultimate Factories on Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, Camaro and Porsche

VIDEO: Nat Geo airing Ultimate Factories on Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, Camaro and Porsche originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CamaroChevroletChevrolet CamaroChevroletCamaroLamborghinilamborghini murcielagolamborghini murcielago lp670-4 superveloceLamborghini murcielago LP670-4 SVLamborghiniMurcielagoLamborghiniMurcielagoLp670-4SuperveloceLamborghiniMurcielagoLp670-4SvLP670-4 SVLp670-4SvNat GeoNatGeoNational GeographicNationalGeographicPorschePorsche 911Porsche911Rolls-RoyceRolls-Royce PhantomRolls-roycePhantomUltimate FactoriesUltimateFactoriesWed, 07 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom cometh?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/rumormill-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-cometh/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/rumormill-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-cometh/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/rumormill-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-cometh/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yes, an electric Rolls-Royce. And why not? The torque curve of an electric motor - making maximum pulling power right at zero RPM - would seem to suit the R-R mission perfectly, as would the distinct lack of noise, vibration and harshness. Sounds like a match made in heaven, no?

Naturally, there are issues to overcome, not the least of which is sourcing a suitably large battery for the three-ton Phantom sedan. According to Auto Express, that battery pack would feature lithium ion cells, which happens to be the same technology used by parent company BMW in its electric Mini E.

These rumors aren't exactly new - we last heard of an electric Roller about a year ago - but this time the addition of a possible range extender is mentioned for the first time. Such a configuration is featured in both the upcoming Chevy Volt and the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept BMW showed off at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The unnamed spokesperson cited by Auto Express doesn't offer any sort of timetable as to when we might see an electric Phantom, but we're not exactly holding our breath.


Gallery: 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom


[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom cometh? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carselectric rollselectric rolls royceelectric rolls-royceElectricCarElectricCarsElectricRollsElectricRolls-royceElectricRollsRoycegreenrolls roycerolls royce phantomrolls-roycerolls-royce phantomRolls-roycePhantomRollsRoyceRollsRoycePhantomTue, 22 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost is an apparition to move you]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2011-rolls-royce-ghost-is-an-apparition-to-move/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2011-rolls-royce-ghost-is-an-apparition-to-move/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2011-rolls-royce-ghost-is-an-apparition-to-move/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost - Click above for high-res image gallery

Perhaps with conspicuous consumption falling out of favor, you're looking to downsize from your Phantom. Perhaps you're Kanye West and you feel the need to lower your public profile, but you don't want to give up your Roller's famously coddling ride. Well, B-list celebrities and hangers-on, Rolls-Royce has your number, and it's called the Ghost.

Looking quite a bit like Geneva's 200EX showcar, the Ghost made its public debut here in Frankfurt, and while we may kid prospective owners that the Ghost is not the Brit brand's top-shelf offering, there's no shame in this car's game. After all, it's hard to consider anything of this scale a "baby," particularly when it's packing a 6.6-liter V12 putting down 563 brake horsepower. What's more, it doesn't actually look that small, even when placed in a row shoulder-to-shoulder with its big brother.

As with the Phantom, rectilinear styling, an impossibly high beltline, and suicide doors are the stylistic meme of this Ghost, although this sedan manages to look somewhat lighter and modestly more athletic than its senior stablemates. Suffice it to say that if you've got a spot for the Phantom in your dream car garage, the Ghost ought not be far behind. If you loath the Phantom's imposing scale and bank vault styling, you're probably unlikely to warm to this latest family member - at least until you are ensconced inside its leather-lined, air-suspended confines.

Even if you don't have a prayer of parking one of these by your yacht slip or in the courtyard of your summer home, it's okay to check out the high-res gallery and the official press release after the jump. It'll be our little secret.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost


Gallery: 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost


[Source: Rolls-Royce]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost is an apparition to move you

Frankfurt 2009: 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost is an apparition to move you originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowRolls GhostRolls RoyceRolls Royce GhostRolls-RoyceRollsGhostRollsRoyceRollsRoyceGhostTue, 15 Sep 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Take it to the Bank: BMW Group to display new debuts in Frankfurt on exhibit hall track]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/take-it-to-the-bank-bmw-group-to-display-new-debuts-in-frankfur/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/take-it-to-the-bank-bmw-group-to-display-new-debuts-in-frankfur/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/take-it-to-the-bank-bmw-group-to-display-new-debuts-in-frankfur/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Group Frankfurt show stand - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's all about presentation. That's the sentiment which BMW is apparently embracing for the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show, for which the Bavarian automaker has announced an intriguing element to its exhibition.
While auto shows typically are limited to showcasing new cars in static displays, this year BMW will feature a track built around the entire show stand which will display its cadre of new debuts for the show. And as we've been reporting incrementally, BMW's got quite a few unveilings scheduled for Frankfurt: the Vision EfficientDynamics concept, the X1 crossover, the production 5 Series Gran Turismo, 320d EfficientDynamics and ActiveHybrid versions of the 7 Series and X6.

On top of BMW's own, the company's Mini and Rolls-Royce subsidiaries have also got a few new debuts as well - including the Mini Coupé Concept, Mini Roadster and Rolls-Royce Ghost - and will for the first time be displaying with their parent company, taking full advantage of BMW's trackside accommodations. Details in the press release after the jump and photos in the gallery below.


Gallery: BMW track display for Frankfurt 2009

bmwfrankfurt-1bmwfrankfurt-2bmwfrankfurt-3


Continue reading Take it to the Bank: BMW Group to display new debuts in Frankfurt on exhibit hall track

Take it to the Bank: BMW Group to display new debuts in Frankfurt on exhibit hall track originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt motor show2009FrankfurtMotorShowbmwbmw frankfurtbmw groupBmwFrankfurtBmwGroupfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt iaafrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtIaaFrankfurtMotorShowminimini frankfurtMiniFrankfurtrolls roycerolls royce frankfurtrolls-roycerolls-royce frankfurtRolls-royceFrankfurtRollsRoyceRollsRoyceFrankfurtWed, 09 Sep 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Caption Contest: Rolls-Royce Phantom at Wal-Mart]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/caption-contest-rolls-royce-phantom-at-walmart/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/caption-contest-rolls-royce-phantom-at-walmart/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/caption-contest-rolls-royce-phantom-at-walmart/#commentsFiled under: ,



We don't normally have caption contests around here, but when we saw this photo of a $350,000-ish Rolls-Royce Phantom parked in from of a Wal-Mart, well, we just had to do something. Like, say, run a caption contest. You would think that anyone able to afford something as (frankly) laughably priced as a Phantom would send the domestic servants out to schlep home pallets of toilet paper in the R63 AMG. But hey, times are tough so maybe they laid off the domestic servants. Or sold the R63 AMG. Anyhow, talk about culture clash.

And now, as we do, we'll start you off with a few not-so-funny, deprived under duress captions of our own, knowing full well that y'all can do much better.

Maybe if I park three spaces away from everyone else, I won't get any poor on me.

It's actually a Geely GE and on sale inside for $99.99.

Sam Walton's heirs pay a visit to the family business.

The filthy rich have a constitutional right to cheap Chinese crap, too.

Do you have any five pound tubs of Grey Poupon?

And there you have it - ha ha ha! Think you can do funnier? Show us below in the comments. The winner will receive 15 laps around a Walmart parking lot in a Rolls-Royce Phantom. Or not. Thanks to Matthew for the tip!

[Source: Blood Hound Blog]

Caption Contest: Rolls-Royce Phantom at Wal-Mart originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PhantomRolls-RoyceRolls-Royce PhantomRolls-roycePhantomWalmartWed, 19 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[RM gears up for Automobiles of London auction with rare Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin classics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/rm-gears-up-for-automobiles-of-london-auction-with-rare-rolls-ro/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/rm-gears-up-for-automobiles-of-london-auction-with-rare-rolls-ro/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/rm-gears-up-for-automobiles-of-london-auction-with-rare-rolls-ro/#commentsFiled under: ,

1950 Aston Martin DB2 Team Car (above) and 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom I (below right) - Click above for high-res images

Pebble Beach may still be in full swing, but Canadian auction house RM is already gearing up for its next big event. Come this October, RM is setting up shop in London with a serious docket of classic automobiles on offer, the extent of which they're just revealing now.

One of the most prominent vehicles to cross the auction block at the upcoming event will be the 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom I (pictured at right). Nicknamed the "Jarvis Torpedo", chassis 17EX is one of three made, and was owned by the Maharaja Hari Sigh Bahadur, ruler of Jammu and Kashmir in India, where it remained through the Seventies before returning to Europe for an extensive restoration. Since then it's appeared at various prestigious shows, including Villa d'Este in 1996 where it was named the most beautiful Rolls-Royce at the show, and Pebble Beach in 2004 to celebrate the company's centenary.

Racing fans will undoubtedly be more enthralled, however, by the 1950 Aston Martin DB2 (above) that'll be up for grabs at the RM London auction. Raced extensively at Le Mans and the Mille Miglia, this factory works racer also served as personal transport for Aston chairman David Brown (for whom Astons still carry the initials DB). Along with a 1914 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Boattail Skiff, a 1962 Chaparral 1, the only right-hand-drive Mercedes CLK GTR Roadster ever built, a '67 Ferrari 330 GTC Zagato and more, these are just some of the most intriguing motorcars scheduled to cross the auction block late this coming October, which you can read about in the press release after the jump.

UPDATED: New images added to both galleries below


Gallery: 1950 Aston Martin DB2


Gallery: 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom I 'Jarvis Torpedo'

Image: Simon Clay/RM Auctions


[Source: RM Auctions]

Continue reading RM gears up for Automobiles of London auction with rare Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin classics

RM gears up for Automobiles of London auction with rare Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin classics originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1928 rolls-royce phantom1928Rolls-roycePhantom1950 aston martin db21950AstonMartinDb2aston martinaston martin db2AstonMartinAstonMartinDb2automobiles of londonAutomobilesOfLondonjarvis torpedoJarvisTorpedophantomrmrm auctionsrm londonRmAuctionsRmLondonrolls-roycerolls-royce phantomrolls-royce phantom iRolls-roycePhantomRolls-roycePhantomIMon, 17 Aug 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce launches limited-edition Phantom Bespoke Collection in the Persian Gulf]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/rolls-royce-launches-limited-edition-phantom-bespoke-collection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/rolls-royce-launches-limited-edition-phantom-bespoke-collection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/rolls-royce-launches-limited-edition-phantom-bespoke-collection/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Rolls-Royce Phantom Bespoke Collection - Click above for high-res image gallery

While Rolls-Royce prepares to roll out the new downsized Ghost model, in the Middle East demand still soars for the full-size Phantom. But with every sheikh and his cousins driving - or more likely, being driven in - the big Rolls, the automaker has announced a new Bespoke Collection exclusively for the Persian Gulf region.

Enabling wealthy clients to specify all manner of trim and color options beyond the usual range of choices, the Phantom Bespoke Collection will deliver just six special vehicles to customers in the Middle East. Following the gold-finished DHC delivered last year, the first example in the new line - pictured here - is decked out in two-tone Arizona Sun over English White paint, with Creme Light and Saddle Tan leather interior complimented by handmade silk rugs and mother of pearl inlays. So you'd better wipe off your sandals before stepping foot inside, habibi. Check it out in the gallery below.


Gallery: Rolls-Royce Phantom Bespoke Collection


[Source: Drive Arabia via Autoblog.nl]

Rolls-Royce launches limited-edition Phantom Bespoke Collection in the Persian Gulf originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 15:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bespoke CollectionBespokeCollectiongulfmiddle eastMiddleEastpersian gulfPersianGulfPhantom Bespoke CollectionPhantomBespokeCollectionrolls roycerolls royce phantomrolls-royceRolls-Royce Bespoke Collectionrolls-royce phantomRolls-Royce Phantom BespokeRolls-Royce Phantom Bespoke CollectionRolls-royceBespokeCollectionRolls-roycePhantomRolls-roycePhantomBespokeRolls-roycePhantomBespokeCollectionRollsRoyceRollsRoycePhantomSun, 16 Aug 2009 15:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce Star of India to go on auction for €10,000,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/rolls-royce-star-of-india-to-go-on-auction-for-10-000-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/rolls-royce-star-of-india-to-go-on-auction-for-10-000-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/rolls-royce-star-of-india-to-go-on-auction-for-10-000-000/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Star of India - click above image for high-res gallery

As if the adventures of Bernie Madoff weren't enough to convince you that we're living in the new Jazz Age, this might: A very custom, one-off 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II 40/50 HP Continental, known in high Roller circles as the Star of India, is being put on auction for the seriously astronomical price of ten million Euros. That's one Porsche Turbo over fourteen million Yankee dollars to you and me. Originally bodied by Thrupp & Maberly for the Maharaja of Rajkot, the Star of India has spent the last few decades in the private collection of Hans-Günther Zach at his Mühlheim/Main Rolls-Royce museum.

There's no indication if Herr Zach is feeling the pinch of the world wide economic meltdown -- or if he's just moving on to greener pastures -- but his entire collection is up for grabs. While there's no doubt other impressive cars up for sale (like the 1926 "Aluminum Sculpture" Phantom I Open Tourer) the star is without question the Star. Never mind the royal pedigree, how can you get past the aluminum on orange carriage work?

Should it sell for its asking price, the 7.7-liter pushrod straight-six Rolls equipped with two additional headlights to follow the path of the steering (fourteen headlights total), would be the most expensive car in the world. After all, rumors of the Japanese man that reportedly paid $15,000,000 for a Ferrari 250 GTO before Japan's economy imploded in the late 1980s have never been proved. Happy bidding. Thanks to Reddy for the tip!


Gallery: Rolls-Royce Phantom II Star of India


[Source: Born Rich]

Rolls-Royce Star of India to go on auction for €10,000,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Star of India1934Rolls-roycePhantomIiStarOfIndiaAluminum SculptureAluminumSculptureFerrari 250 GTOFerrari250GtoHans-Gnther ZachHans-gntherZachMaharaja of RajkotMaharajaOfRajkotPhantom IPhantom IIPhantom II Star of IndiaPhantomIPhantomIiPhantomIiStarOfIndiaRolls Royce Phantom IRolls Royce Phantom I Aluminum SculptureRolls-RoyceRolls-Royce Aluminum SculptureRolls-Royce Phantom I Aluminum Sculpture Open TourerRolls-Royce Phantom II Star of IndiaRolls-Royce Star of IndiaRolls-royceAluminumSculptureRolls-roycePhantomIAluminumSculptureOpenTourerRolls-roycePhantomIiStarOfIndiaRolls-royceStarOfIndiaRollsRoycePhantomIRollsRoycePhantomIAluminumSculptureStar of IndiaStarOfIndiaThrupp MaberlyThruppMaberlyFri, 07 Aug 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW to show off 50th anniversary edition Minis in Frankfurt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/01/bmw-to-show-off-50th-anniversary-edition-minis-in-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/01/bmw-to-show-off-50th-anniversary-edition-minis-in-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/01/bmw-to-show-off-50th-anniversary-edition-minis-in-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Mini 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden -- Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW has a number of splashes planned for this year's Frankfurt Auto Show, one of the biggest being Mini's 50th birthday celebration. As part of the "What a birthday. It's MINI" celebration, Mini will bring the special edition 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden to the show -- as well as a ginormous birthday sign. The Minis get a "jubilee placard" on their noses, and an ear-splitting audio system run by the new "Mission Control."

Elsewhere at the BMW group stands will be the entire Rolls-Royce line, featuring the Ghost, and BMW itself will have the entire Efficient Dynamics fleet running on a circuit, including the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and BMW ActiveHybrid X6. You can read all about it after the jump, and don't forget to take a cupcake to Mini if you're at the show.


Gallery: MINI 50 Mayfair


Gallery: MINI 50 Camden


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW to show off 50th anniversary edition Minis in Frankfurt

BMW to show off 50th anniversary edition Minis in Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 01 Aug 2009 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwcamdencoupefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowlimited editionLimitedEditionmayfairminimini 50 camdenmini 50 mayfairmini camdenmini mayfairMini50CamdenMini50MayfairMiniCamdenMiniMayfairrolls-roycespecial editionSpecialEditionSat, 01 Aug 2009 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Badge-engineering at its finest? Rolls-Royce Phantom spotted in Manhattan with GM hybrid emblems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/badge-engineering-at-its-finest-rolls-royce-phantom-spotted-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/badge-engineering-at-its-finest-rolls-royce-phantom-spotted-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/badge-engineering-at-its-finest-rolls-royce-phantom-spotted-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Rolls-Royce Phantom 'Hybrid' - click above for high-res image gallery

If there is any car that seems to be well suited to either hybridization or outright electrification, the Rolls-Royce Phantom would seem to be logical candidate. Many of them are used transporting the wealthy around the world's great cities like Paris, London and Manhattan in trips that are not necessarily that long. It's also not unheard for a manufacturer to provide vehicles to customers for field testing, just as BMW is doing right now with the electric Mini E. However, aside from the highly publicized Mini E project, these sorts of initiatives are typically done on the down-low.

So when we heard that someone had spotted an extended-wheelbase Phantom prowling the streets of New York with an extra badge on each of its fenders, we were naturally a bit suspect. The car that was photographed wears hybrid badges of the same type used on all of General Motors' gas-electric vehicles. The driver claims that car was loaned to a VIP client for evaluation by Rolls-Royce. Remember, friends, that Rolls-Royce is owned by BMW - a company that has a partnership with GM, Daimler and Chrysler to develop a two-mode hybrid system. It is certainly not beyond the realm of possibility that BMW might want to evaluate or even build a two-mode hybrid Phantom. However, it is almost inconceivable that any such vehicle would be clad in GM badges.

Adding further cold water to this story is the report earlier this week that BMW and Daimler are looking at dissolving the two-mode partnership and going in a different direction with their hybrid efforts. Our guess is that the owner of this particular Roller simply had a guilty environmental conscience (or a sense of humor) but couldn't bring himself to be seen in anything as pedestrian as a Toyota Prius. We're still waiting for a comment from Rolls-Royce.

Update: Rolls-Royce spokesman Wayne Kung confirmed our suspicions that this is not a Rolls prototype. The company does not currently have any prototypes running in the New York area.

Gallery: Rolls-Royce Phantom Hybrid?


[Source: Man on the Move; images used with permission]

Badge-engineering at its finest? Rolls-Royce Phantom spotted in Manhattan with GM hybrid emblems originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>badge engineeringBadgeEngineeringphantom hybridPhantomHybridroll royceroll royce phantom hybridRollRoyceRollRoycePhantomHybridrollsrolls hybridrolls roycerolls-royceRollsHybridRollsRoycetwo modetwo mode hybridTwoModeTwoModeHybridFri, 24 Jul 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce gives up the Ghost... performance numbers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/rolls-royce-gives-up-the-ghost-performance-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/rolls-royce-gives-up-the-ghost-performance-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/rolls-royce-gives-up-the-ghost-performance-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Rolls-Royce Ghost - Click above for high-res image gallery

The official numbers for the Rolls-Royce Ghost have been revealed, and as expected, you won't need to worry about getting embarrassed. The 6.6-liter, twin-turbo V12 is rated at 563 hp and 575 lb-ft, that latter number, in typical Rolls fashion, being available practically at idle - just 1,500 rpm.

The run to 60 mph takes 4.8 seconds in North America (but 4.7 elsewhere for some reason), which is a couple of tenths behind the BMW 760i and about a second quicker than the company's own Phantom. For a car once derided as "the baby Rolls," its performance looks as if it will be pleasantly adult. It will go on sale later this year for £165,000 in the U.K. (that's $271K U.S.). You can check out our high-res gallery below and the official Rolls-Royce press release after the jump.


Gallery: Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost


[Source: Rolls-Royce]

Continue reading Rolls-Royce gives up the Ghost... performance numbers

Rolls-Royce gives up the Ghost... performance numbers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 rolls-royce ghost2010Rolls-royceGhostghostluxuryRollerrolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce ghostRolls-royceGhostRollsRoycesaloonsedansilver ghostSilverGhostTue, 21 Jul 2009 09:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Crewe warehouse opens doors to liquidate vintage Bentley and Rolls-Royce parts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/crewe-warehouse-opens-doors-to-liquidate-vintage-bentley-and-rol/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/crewe-warehouse-opens-doors-to-liquidate-vintage-bentley-and-rol/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/crewe-warehouse-opens-doors-to-liquidate-vintage-bentley-and-rol/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bentley spare parts warehouse in Crewe - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 143,000 square foot Bentley warehouse in Crewe, England, has got to be a dream come true for British motor enthusiasts. The facility, which sits adjacent to the Bentley Motors automobile factory, holds some 55,000 part lines totaling over seven million individual items for Bentleys made after 1955 (as well as Rolls-Royce automobiles built there between then and 2002 when the companies split under Volkswagen and BMW ownership, respectively). In late September, the warehouse will open its doors to anyone - owner, enthusiast or trader - interested in stopping by to pick out that elusive part they were looking for, from indicator lights to engine blocks and everything in between.

With the all-new replacement for the Arnage line rumbling around the corner in August, Bentley evidently needs the space and motoring Anglophiles stand to benefit. Details in the press release after the jump and high-res images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Bentley warehouse - Crewe, England


[Source: Bentley]

Continue reading Crewe warehouse opens doors to liquidate vintage Bentley and Rolls-Royce parts

Crewe warehouse opens doors to liquidate vintage Bentley and Rolls-Royce parts originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley factorybentley hqbentley partsbentley warehouseBentleyFactoryBentleyHqBentleyPartsBentleyWarehousecreweenglandrolls-roycerolls-royce partsRolls-roycePartsFri, 17 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit of EcstaSea: Rolls-Royce collaborates on Palmer Johnson mega-yacht ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/spirit-of-ecstasea-rolls-royce-collaborates-on-palmer-johnson-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/spirit-of-ecstasea-rolls-royce-collaborates-on-palmer-johnson-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/spirit-of-ecstasea-rolls-royce-collaborates-on-palmer-johnson-m/#commentsFiled under:


Palmer Johnson Ice Class World Yacht - Click above for high-res image gallery

Teak decks, big engines, luxurious accommodations, leisurely cruising, lots of chrome...we could just as easily be talking about a modern Rolls-Royce as a motor yacht. So it should come as no surprise that renowned shipbuilder Palmer Johnson turned to Rolls-Royce to collaborate on one of its most ambitious projects, the PJ World Yacht.

The result of Palmer Johnson's acquisition of Flekkefjord & Slipp, a Norwegian builder of exploration vessels, the 82-meter Ice Class mega yacht concept features everything a world traveler could ask for, and then some: a helipad with elevator-equipped hangar, submarine garage and a six-floor interior designed by Italian naval architects Nuvolari-Lenard - including a three-deck master stateroom, swimming pool, gym, spa, home theater...the works.

The yacht even comes equipped with such pirate-defense features as water cannons and thermal imaging cameras, along with an environmentally-friendly diesel-electric propulsion system. Granted, the branch of Rolls-Royce with which Palmer Johnson collaborated on this project has more to do with marine equipment than luxury limousines, but against the backdrop of other automotive-nautical crossovers like BMW's Bavaria Cruiser 55 and Porsche Design's Fearless 28, the PJ Ice Class World Yacht looks like the veritable Rolls-Royce of mega yachts. Have a look at the renderings in the gallery below to see for yourself.


Gallery: Palmer Johnson Rolls-Royce Ice Class World Yacht


[Source: Palmer Johnson]

Spirit of EcstaSea: Rolls-Royce collaborates on Palmer Johnson mega-yacht originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FlekkefjordFlekkefjord SlippFlekkefjordSlippice classIceClasspalmer johnsonpalmer johnson ice class world yachtPalmerJohnsonPalmerJohnsonIceClassWorldYachtpj world yachtPjWorldYachtrollerrolls-royceyachtyachtingyachtsWed, 01 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce launches configurator for 200EX/Ghost]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/rolls-royce-launches-configurator-for-200ex-ghost/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/rolls-royce-launches-configurator-for-200ex-ghost/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/rolls-royce-launches-configurator-for-200ex-ghost/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Looking for a spectacularly useless way to waste some time? Online car configurators are one of our favorites. You can sit for an hour or more playing with different color combinations and options on a car you're never going to buy, and have absolutely nothing to show for it when you're done. The most alluring are the configurators for the most exclusive European exotica, but typically automakers don't launch these until the car's on the market, or at least has been unveiled in production form. Rolls-Royce, however, has evidently decided to jump the (nickel-plated, mother-of-pearl-handled) gun in putting online a configurator for the 200EX, the concept car that previewed the upcoming Ghost model at the Geneva show this past March.

Labeled the "visualizer", the utility is available for all your distracting, time-wasting needs on the 200EX mini-site. There you can play around with different color and trim choices inside and out, right down to the "silver satin bonnet". Enjoy, but don't come complaining to us when you haven't gotten any work done.


Gallery: Rolls-Royce 200EX concept


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Rolls-Royce 200EX concept


[Source: Rolls-Royce]

Rolls-Royce launches configurator for 200EX/Ghost originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>200excongiguratorghostrollsrolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce 200exrolls-royce 200ex conceptrolls-royce ghostRolls-royce200exRolls-royce200exConceptRolls-royceGhostRollsRoycerr4visualizerThu, 25 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[No Surprise: Rolls-Royce reportedly planning coupe and cabrio versions of Ghost]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/no-surprise-rolls-royce-reportedly-planning-coupe-and-cabrio-ve/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/no-surprise-rolls-royce-reportedly-planning-coupe-and-cabrio-ve/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/no-surprise-rolls-royce-reportedly-planning-coupe-and-cabrio-ve/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost - Click above for high-res image gallery

Without catching anyone off guard, an exterior stylist for Rolls-Royce disclosed that the company is planning both coupe and convertible variants of its upcoming all-new Ghost sedan. Andreas Thurner, responsible for penning the new four-door, told Autocar that, "...the Ghost was designed in a way to make other body styles... we have to build up a family for the Ghost just as we did for the Phantom." The coupe and cabriolet models have yet to receive any official go-ahead for production, but history is on their side.

Rolls-Royce has confirmed that the new model will receive an "intelligent" four-corner air suspension that will read multiple sensor inputs and make individual load calculations every 2.5 milliseconds. It is reportedly so sensitive that it can detect where passengers are seated and when they move about within the cabin. In addition, the air suspension will raise or lower the vehicle by 25mm (a.k.a. "the lift and kneel" function) to compensate for squat and dive, improve ground clearance, and ease entry for the soon-to-be coddled passengers. Hand-build at the company's Goodwood plant in the U.K., production is set to start later this year.


Gallery: Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost


[Source: Autocar]

No Surprise: Rolls-Royce reportedly planning coupe and cabrio versions of Ghost originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Ghost2010 Rolls Royce2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost2010Ghost2010Rolls-royceGhost2010RollsRoyceAll-new GhostAll-newGhostCabrioletCoupeGhostGhost CabrioletGhost ConvertibleGhost CoupeGhostCabrioletGhostConvertibleGhostCoupeGoodwoodrolls royceRolls Royce Ghostrolls-royceRollsRoyceRollsRoyceGhostMon, 15 Jun 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost is 100% Roller so far]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-rolls-royce-ghost-is-100-roller-so-far/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-rolls-royce-ghost-is-100-roller-so-far/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-rolls-royce-ghost-is-100-roller-so-far/#commentsFiled under: ,


Rolls-Royce Ghost - Click above for high-res image gallery

What is a brand? Beyond the badge, what separates a Louis Vuitton bag from a purse that might be just as good, but made by someone else? We come to that question on the occasion of the Rolls-Royce Ghost which, in some quarters, is being considered a Rolls only in name. Autoblog got a chance to crawl around the Ghost - not the "baby Rolls," not the "entry-level Rolls" - and see if the car really is what its makers claim it to be: every bit a Rolls-Royce motorcar.


Gallery: Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost is 100% Roller so far

Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost is 100% Roller so far originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featurefeaturedhands-onrolls-roycerolls-royce silver ghostRolls-royceSilverGhostsilver ghostSilverGhostThu, 04 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST