MotorAuthority

Rolls Royce expanding in preperation for RR4 saloon

Posted Sat Oct 4 2008 3:05 AM by Nelson Ireson

Rolls Royce is currently developing a new entry-level model for launch in 2010, which is expected to double the number of vehicles built by the ultra-luxury carmaker each year. The new car carries the internal name ‘RR4’ and has been spotted testing in both the UK and Germany.

Former CEO Ian Robertson has previously mentioned the carmaker would add a second shift to its Goodwood, UK, plant to build the new car and that up to 800 units per year would be built. Last year Rolls Royce sold 805 cars world-wide, so the new model would effectively double its sales.

In what would be a welcomed boost to the ailing British car industry, the latest reports indicate that RR has taken on an additional 200 workers at its Goodwood factory to increase capacity for the new model. This effectively brings staff levels to the 900 mark.

Speaking with The Sun at this week’s Paris Motor Show, the carmaker’s new chief Tom Purves said that the RR4 has already attracted great interest among buyers, especially in the United States and the Middle East.

RR’s positive outlook is in stark contrast to the overall market. This year, sales of the bespoke cars are expected to hit the 1,000 unit mark, setting a new record for the carmaker while the rest of the industry suffers from shrinking sales.

Previously captured spy shots have revealed many details about the upcoming model. Holding onto its iconic RR shape despite a leaner, smaller overall size, the RR4 will feature rear-opening suicide doors, a bulky C-pillar and a chiseled front end.

RR4 will share much in common with parent company BMW’s 7-series and will be roughly the same size as the German limo. However, the platform and engine for the car will be unique to RR. Most of the shared parts will include various electronic components but the car will have the attributes and behavior typical of a RR.

story Tags:

• Rolls Royce
• Rolls Royce RR4
• RR4
• Sedans
• Spy shots

Reader Comments

• Sat Aug 9 2008 4:23 PM

  Andrew says

  If you want a smaller and sportier Rolls, buy the Phantom Coupe. Why aren't they charging less for the RR4 to give buyers a reason to buy it?

• Sat Aug 9 2008 8:22 PM

  Dandan says

  I'd like to hear more about BMW's "experience" in hybrid tech when they are only developing it for the X6 and the X5