Rolls-Royce 101EX
101EX is thernlatest experimental model to come from Rolls-Royce, hand-built tornexplore a design direction for a modern coupé. Following thernsame uncompromising approach employed for the Phantom, the new car isrnan engineering-led design wrapped in a sleek, rakish coupé body.
101EXrnshares its state-of-the-art, lightweight, aluminium space frame chassisrntechnology with the other Rolls-Royce models, albeit in a body that isrnshorter overall. Power comes from the Phantom's advanced,rndirect-injection, 6.75-litre V12 engine, which delivers unstressed,rneffortless performance.
Currently there are no plans for 101EX tornbe put into production. It is an experimental car that explores futurerndesign directions, a showcase for the innovative design and high-techrnarchitecture that pervade the quintessential modern Rolls-Royce car.
Thernhandsome, low-slung body of 101EX has been created by the Rolls-Roycerndesign team under the direction of chief designer Ian Cameron. Whilernthe space frame technology has been borrowed from the Phantom, 101EX isrnshorter and lower than that model: the wheelbase is 250 mm shorter andrnoverall length is down by 240 mm. All body panels, therefore, are new.
"The design suggests tremendous, effortless power" Ian Cameron
101EXrnis powered by the same 6.75-litre engine as the Phantom. Using advancedrndirect fuel injection with variable valve lift and timing, the V12rncombines power with outstanding combustion efficiency. Designed torndevelop massive low-down torque, it delivers 75 per cent of its maximumrnpulling power at just 1000 rpm, giving the smooth, unstressedrnperformance associated with Rolls-Royce.
"101EX is a very modern,rn21st century interpretation of a classic Grand Touring coupé,"rnsays Rolls-Royce chief designer Ian Cameron.
The unique exteriorrndesign features a discreet, streamlined grille, complete with Spirit ofrnEcstasy mascot, that flows seamlessly back into the aluminium bonnetrnand windscreen surround. LED sidelight and direction indicatorsrncomplement the round xenon driving lights.
Long, elegant coachrndoors, hinged at the rear, allow easier access to the 101EX interiorrnthan conventional front-hinged doors and add considerably to thernhandsome profile. Each door closes at the touch of a button.
New seven-spoke, 21-inch, forged aluminium wheels are used on the car, making them as tough and as lightest as possible.
Therncosseting 101EX interior has been designed for elegance and maximumrncomfort for all of its occupants, featuring machined aluminium, thernfinest leather and exquisite rosewood and red oak veneers. Even thernside and rear windows have wood surrounds.
"The interior usesrntraditional materials in a modern way," says Alan Sheppard who,rntogether with Charles Coldham, was responsible for the car's interiorrndesign. Front slim-line, bucket-style seats offer outstanding comfort.rnRear seating is exceptionally spacious for a coupé, with privacyrnensured by the sweeping C-pillars.
"101EX is a response to therninterest expressed by current and potential Rolls-Royce clients in arncoupé," says Rolls-Royce chairman and CEO Ian Robertson. "It isrnan experimental car only, but one designed and engineered to a highrnstandard. It radiates refinement, performance and presence."
Itrnis the company's second experimental car in 24 months, following 100EX,rnwhich was seen at Geneva in 2004 and marked the company's Centenary.rn"It shows that Rolls-Royce continues to operate from a position ofrnstrength, and that we are keen to explore new directions for thernbrand," adds Robertson.
Rolls-Royce's first experimental car, 1EX, was built in 1919 and based on the Silver Ghost.
Thernstyling of 101EX is more driver-focused than that of the longerrnPhantom. According to Ian Cameron, "It is a less formal car, morernstreamlined, more about the individual."
