Rolls-Royce revives Ghost nameplate for upcoming RR4 sedan

Rolls-Royce is currently developing a brand new model positioned below the Phantom for launch in early 2010, which is expected to double the number of vehicles built by the ultra-luxury carmaker each year. Rolls-Royce has announced the name for its new model series which until now has been known as RR4. The name ‘Ghost’ was announced by CEO Tom Purves at a press conference held at the Shanghai motor show.

Expected to be heavily influenced by the 2009 Rolls-Royce EX200 concept car, the new Ghost will essentially resemble a vehicle with modern Rolls-Royce lines in a slightly smaller package. Design elements such as the elevated prow, long bonnet, short front overhang, sharply raked A-pillar and elegant tail should give the Ghost an air of informal presence.

The vehicle will feature a pair of suicide-style rear-hinged doors in the back, and is designed to comfortably seat five adults. It will stretch roughly 5,399mm in length, 1,948m across and stand 1,550m in height.

According to its designers, the interior will be kept deliberately clear. The controls will be neatly sculptured, with more important functions emphasised by accents of chrome. As for the rest of the cabin, you will only find the finest in leather and natural wood trim and plenty of mood lighting.

A 6.6L turbocharged V12 will power the 'baby' Rolls, with an 8-speed gearbox sending the power rearward. Power at the crankshaft is expected to top 500hp (373kW). The engine itself may be a bit smaller than the Phantom line's powerplant, but output is still very healthy.

Production will start at the company’s Goodwood manufacturing facility on the south coast of England later in the year.