http://www.autonet.ca/Spotlight/Concepts/s...08/1478381.html

by Staff

posted March 8, 2006

Rolls Royce has but one vehicle in its lineup - the Phantom sedan - but it could be just a little bit closer to a second production vehicle with the unveiling of a new concept car.

The 101EX concept was hand-built by engineers in response to current Rolls-Royce customers' interest in a coupe . The company's chief designer, Ian Cameron, made it clear that this is designed around being more of an individual's car as opposed to being strictly a limousine-type vehicle.

"The styling of 101EX is more driver-focused than that of the longer Phantom," according to Cameron, "It is a less formal car, more streamlined, more about the individual."

It houses the Phantom's direct-injection, 6.75-litre V12 engine and shares that vehicle's space frame, though the 101EX has a 250 mm shorter wheelbase and 240 mm shorter length overall. The engine delivers 75% of its maximum torque output at 1,000 rpm.

Long coach doors are hinged at the rear to allow for easier access inside and the doors close with the touch of a button. The 101EX rides on tires that feature 21-inch forged aluminum seven-spoke wheels.

The interior features machined aluminum, leather and rosewood and red oak veneers. Even the side and rear windows have wood surrounds.

"The interior uses traditional materials in a modern way," says Alan Sheppard who, together with Charles Coldham, was responsible for the car's interior design. Front slim-line, bucket-style seats offer comfort, while Rolls-Royce says rear seats are 'exceptionally spacious' for a coupé, with privacy ensured by the sweeping C-pillars.

That gross A-frame A-pillar looks like something on a Russian WWII era airplane or a cheap plastic toy from the Dollar Store. Gross.

The hardtop greenhouse is cool, but you guys knew that was coming.