Rolls-Royce has today (August 5) confirmed that it is working on a sixth model that will sit alongside the Phantom, Phantom Drophead Coupé, Phantom Coupé, Ghost and Wraith when it arrives in the summer of 2016.
While not naming the new model the car is described as delivering "effortless, open-top touring through the perfect marriage of modern Rolls-Royce luxury, style and elegance with an engaging and exhilarating driving experience." If that is not a convertible (or Drophead in Rolls-Royce parlance) version of the Wraith Coupé we will eat our hats.
Rolls-Royce also says the new car is "currently undergoing a rigorous process of prototype testing" and a heavily camouflaged Wraith with what appears to be a folding soft-top has been spotted under test. Expect the Drophead to feature the same 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 engine as the coupé with a power output the far side of 630hp.
"I am truly delighted to confirm today the development of our new model which will open an exciting new chapter in the great story of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars," said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. "We are currently developing an exciting and thoroughly contemporary interpretation of a pinnacle drophead tourer which will introduce even more discerning men and women to Rolls-Royce ownership."
Anything else?
Rolls-Royce is also believed to be working on an SUV to rival the Bentley Falcon. The forthcoming BMW X7 is expected to provide much of the mechanicals for this super-SUV in the same way the Bentley will borrow heavily from the Audi Q7.