It might look a bit like a jacked-up Rolls-Royce Phantom, but this shortened Series II is actually a development test mule for the forthcoming Rolls-Royce SUV.
Earlier this year, Rolls-Royce made a promise to its stakeholders to keep them informed on the progress of Project Cullinan and so the company has announced this mule will be seen on public roads this week as development moves up another gear.
This vehicle is purely being used to finesse the all-wheel drive car's suspension, to ensure it 'delivers a ride that will be effortless, everywhere'. Rolls is aiming to make its SUV as comfortable off-road as it is on it, which will be hard because its products are known for their 'magic carpet' rides.
Anything else?
Thus, the first series of tests will focus on Project Cullinan's on-road behaviour, from suspension throw to high-bodied stability. Test surfaces will include Belgian Pavé, cobblestones, corrugated concrete, noise development and measurement surfaces, resonance road, and acceleration bumps. Which is a pretty varied array of roads.