Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled the first model of its new Coachbuild series, the La Rose Noire.
Coachbuild is a top-tier bespoke manufacturing method where clients are closely involved in every step, from concept design to engineering, creating a one-of-a-kind vehicle.
The newly introduced Drophead is designed specifically for only four chosen Rolls-Royce clients, showcasing a modern interpretation of a two-seater roadster while prioritizing a cozy and intimate interior. Each vehicle is the result of a four-year collaboration with clients, reflecting their individual preferences, experiences, and visions in a unique work of art.
The Drophead is the first two-door, two-seater roadster model in the history of modern Rolls-Royce. It features a low body, sleek surface treatment, and an interior space that wraps around passengers warmly. The front of the vehicle is adorned with a newly designed Pantheon grille and a ‘Double R’ logo badge, uniquely crafted for the Drophead, exuding sophistication and an overwhelming presence.
The elongated rear deck generates downforce when driving at high speeds, enhancing driving stability. Rolls-Royce designers worked with aerodynamic experts for two years, conducting 20 iterations to perfect the design of the rear deck while balancing its aerodynamic function and the unique downward slope of the Drophead.
In addition, the Drophead features a completely detachable hardtop. When the roof is open, it becomes a flexible open-top roadster, and when closed, it transforms into a robust and impressive coupe. The roof is equipped with ‘electrochromic glass,’ allowing the occupant to control the amount of light entering with the push of a button.
The interior is defined by a harmony of minimalism and tactile analog feel. To achieve a simple and clear cabin design, the center fascia includes only three main buttons. A cantilever-shaped armrest is placed between the two seats, and with a single push of a button, the support slides back and forth for easy access to the entertainment system controller. Additionally, the seamlessly flowing shoulder panel, high shoulder line, and low seat position create a comforting sense of protection for the occupants.
The ‘La Rose Noire Drophead’ is the first model to be unveiled among four Drophead commissions, presented at a private gathering near Pebble Beach, California, on the 20th of this month, local time. It draws inspiration from the romantic natural atmosphere of a two-seater roadster journey and the allure of the ‘Black Baccarat Rose,’ beloved by the mother of the commissioning family.
The exterior color appears nearly black in low light, but reveals a rich, pearl-like luster in sunshine. The exterior seems to change color depending on the viewing angle, reflecting the infinitely changing hues of the Black Baccarat rose. This effect was achieved through 150 meticulous painting sessions. The 22-inch alloy wheels are also finished with a shimmering dark red mystery paint under sunlight.
The vehicle’s interior is adorned with the most intricate and elaborate marquetry in Rolls-Royce history. Over 1,600 handcrafted black sycamore wood veneer pieces are used to depict falling rose petals. 1,070 symmetric pieces with different natural patterns create the background, while 533 asymmetrically placed red pieces symbolize the petals. The development of a lacquer treatment to prevent fading over time took over a year. This pattern extends from the rear deck to the side of the custom champagne chest.
Alex Innes, Head of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Coachbuild Design, stated, “To incorporate the rich and complex characteristics of the Black Baccarat rose into the vehicle, we combined modern design concepts with the intricacies of historical craftsmanship.”
The fascia of the La Rose Noire Drophead features a specially commissioned Audemars Piguet timepiece, designed to be detachable and worn on its strap, thanks to a specially designed electric clasp mechanism that allows it to detach smoothly with the push of a button.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, remarked, “The La Rose Noire Drophead is a testament to Rolls-Royce’s constant pursuit of perfection to harmonize the artistry and imagination of a single client. From its breathtaking form to its elegant and romantic expression, it perfectly reflects both Rolls-Royce’s rich heritage and the characteristics of the commissioning client.”
Furthermore, Anders Warming, the design director of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, explained, “The La Rose Noire Drophead is the most advanced expression conceived by Rolls-Royce Coachbuild, aiming to signal the future of Rolls-Royce Coachbuild through the customer’s vision and the best designers at the brand, while showcasing the industry-leading creativity in the applied arts.”
Rolls-Royce Coachbuild plans to continue providing clients with a spirit of creative experimentation and limitless possibilities through close and ongoing collaboration with the brand’s representative experts and artisans in the future.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr