Rolls-Royce reveal first sketches of new RR4

Can’t quite come up with the million dollar plus price tag for the magnificent Rolls-Royce Phantom? Perhaps you are tired of waiting in line for the incredibly popular super-luxury sedan that has put Rolls-Royce back on the map? Well fear not folks, there is a smaller and cheaper Roller in the pipeline. Just don't be expecting cheaper to be 'cheap' as that is one word that's not in the Rolls-Royce English dictionary.

Currently dubbed the RR4, the folks at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars have revealed some design sketches of their new model. The RR4 will not only be smaller than the Phantom, it will also be powered by a new engine, unique to Rolls-Royce.

The RR4’S design was signed off in 2007 and Rolls-Royce has confirmed that engineering and development is well underway. Based on BMW’s 7-Series platform the new Roller will be built at Rolls-Royce’s manufacturing facility in Goodwood in the U.K.

The Goodwood manufacturing facilities are being completely reconfigured to accommodate the RR4, with extended paint, wood and leather shops as well as a second assembly line. The company will move to a two-shift system next year as it gears up for full production of the new model.

“Effortless performance and standard-setting levels of comfort and efficiency, executed with the utmost care and attention, remain fundamentals of Rolls-Royce design. The RR4 has a more informal presence than the Phantom models with a greater emphasis on driving. In design terms this is expressed through its slightly smaller dimensions and more organic form, yet with powerful, purposeful proportions. It is a true and uncompromising Rolls-Royce in every sense,” said Chief designer, Ian Cameron

“RR4 will mark a milestone in the history of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars” , added. “The business continues to go from strength to strength and the introduction of this new model will expand the appeal of the brand. We look forward to this next chapter with anticipation and confidence,” said Rolls-Royce Chairman, Ian Robertson

Rolls-Royce plan to launch the new RR4 in 2010 and have in the meantime promised to furnish us with further design and engineering details over the course of 2009.

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