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Aston Martin has triumphed in the readers Auto Trophy 2009 vote presented by the German car magazine Auto Zeitung. Taking three awards, the British marque won recognition for the new Rapide, DB9 Volante and the V12 Vantage, making Aston Martin the most successful foreign sports car brand in the 2009 vote.

The Aston Martin Rapide, which celebrated its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and customer deliveries of which will start in the spring of 2010, was victorious in the category Luxury Class / Imported Cars. The car received 33.7 percent of the reader’s votes and was well ahead of its competition, the Maserati Quattroporte (19.5 percent) and Jaguar XJ (14.5 percent). “Such recognition for the Rapide before the car even enters the market is particularly encouraging for us”, said Dr. Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin Chief Executive, at the Auto Trophy-Gala in Berlin. “We set out to build the most elegant four-door sports car in the world, and that is what we have achieved.”

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage lead the category of Sports Car / Imported, winning with 30.9 percent, taking a similarly clear advantage over the Maserati GrandTurismo (14.8 percent) and the Corvette (13.5 percent) who took second and third place prizes respectively. The third winning Auto Trophy for Aston Martin went to the DB9 Volante in the category of Convertibles over 30,000 Euro / Imported cars, with 10.3 percent of the reader’s vote, followed by the Ferrari F430 Spider (9.1 percent) and the Lamborghini Murciélago roadster (7.0 percent).

This year is the 22nd edition of the Auto Trophy held by the magazine Auto Zeitung. Some 104,442 readers participated in the 2009 vote choosing their favourite cars from a selection of 370 vehicle models in 27 categories

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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has opened a new showroom at Qatar’s most exclusive address, the Pearl Island in Doha. The luxury automotive manufacturer celebrated the occasion on the outstanding, man- made island, located offshore the Arabian Peninsula, with a prestigious event that attracted prominent members of the Qatari business community.

The event was marked by the unveiling of the new Ghost, the latest addition to the Rolls-Royce model range which was making its debut in Qatar.

“Having seen the development of The Pearl Qatar over recent months I am convinced that it is the ideal environment to house the pinnacle of luxury in the automotive market. Our presence on this exclusive venue reinforces the strategic importance of Qatar and the Middle East region to the future growth of Rolls-Royce,” said Tom Purves, CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Peter Schoppmann, Regional Director for the Middle East, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented during the opening: “This place has an effortless glamour, which truly reflects the atmosphere of our cars.”

Omar Alfardan, President of Alfardan Automobiles and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha, said “The opening of our new showroom on one of the most luxurious islands in the world demonstrates our commitment to consistently investing in the Rolls-Royce brand. Our unique facility on the Pearl Qatar sets us apart and will cement our iconic status in Qatar’s automotive market.”

He continued, “We are extremely optimistic about the success of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars new model, the Ghost, in Qatar. The launch of the Ghost will further strengthen our position as Qatar’s leading luxury automotive dealer.”

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Bentley Motors has launched a new collection of accessories highlighting the British company’s design and craftsmanship skills. Whether purely functional or created to further accentuate and personalise the appearance of a customer’s car, each accessory reflects the attention to detail at which Crewe’s stylists and engineers excel.

One of the highlights of the new collection is the striking Vented Wings available for the Bentley Continental GT and GTC. Styled by Raul Pires, Bentley’s head of exterior design, the sleek, vented wings further emphasize the Continental’s sporting lines. Positioned to the rear of the front wheel arch, the vents are cut into a newly tooled wing panel and feature a black mesh finish. An alternative chrome mesh is currently under development and will be available in early 2010. This accessory will also be offered on Continental Flying Spur models.

The Bentley ethos of tailoring hand craftsmanship to customers’ personal needs is now extended to the company’s smallest enthusiasts. Customers may now commission a new selection of bespoke Child Seats with the hide colour matching that of their car’s interior including, where appropriate, the same piping, fluting and hand-stitching. As a further option, a child’s name may be embroidered on the seat back beneath the Bentley Wings.

Bentley’s new Self-Levelling Wheel Badges offer Arnage, Azure, Brooklands and Continental customers the opportunity subtly to personalise their Bentley. The badges fit into the centre of the wheel and feature Bentley’s classic ‘B’ symbol surrounded by the ‘Bentley Motors’ script and remain completely level and upright at speeds of up to 70mph (112 Km/h). Once the car comes to a halt the wheel badges will also automatically self-level.

Offering excellent indoor and outdoor protection (and tailored to specifically fit each model) Bentley’s branded Car Covers are now available for the Continental Supersports and Series 51 GT and GTC models. The covers are branded with unique Supersports and Series 51 logos with the name of the model embroidered on the side. In addition, Bentley is now offering Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur customers the opportunity to personalise their indoor car covers with their own bespoke text – for example, a cherished registration number.

Originally launched in 2004, the Bentley Jewelled Torch has been a notable hit with Bentley drivers and enthusiasts of the marque. The lightweight torch retains its powerful LED spot beam but for an extra dash of style and practicality, the Bentley ‘B’ is now lasered into the lens and Bentley’s unique knurling has been added around the beam adjustment bezel. The new version of this compact torch is presented in a branded box and can be recharged from the car’s cigar lighter.

Cosworth will provide its class leading 2.0L YD race engine alongside high performance engine control and instrumentation systems for the new mid-engined Chevron competition coupe. An initial run of 20 of the new cars are being laid down for the one-make GR8 Challenge series, the opening event of which is planned for early 2010.

Cosworth has an unparalleled pedigree in developing high performance racing engines spanning half a century. Today Cosworth’s ever expanding range of ready-to-race performance packages is based around the YD (popularly referred to as the Duratec), which is generally considered to be the engine of choice for mid level racing because of its lightweight construction and impressive power potential.

High performance race engines require a suitably advanced control system to provide optimum power ”under the curve” and ensure that the engine is able to deliver both performance and reliability. The Cosworth group includes a dedicated electronics division, which provides superb ECU solutions under the Pectel Control Systems brand and industry leading data and instrumentation systems under the Pi Research brand.

The Cosworth package that will be supplied for Chevron Racing Cars’ new GR8 will include the Pectel CD4 unit, which offers unrivalled levels of precision and flexibility, using technologies derived from those that have been used to win World Rally Championship and FIA GT titles. The on-car electronics package is completed by the Pi Omega LCD panel display, which provides crystal-clear readouts for the driver and seamless integration with the engine control unit data.

Chevron Racing Cars has already released a concept study, which it says is fairly close to the final design. Weighing around 600 kg, the Cosworth 2.0L YD will provide the new GR8 with a power to weight ratio in excess of 400 bhp per tonne. Fabrication of the prototype is in progress and development testing is scheduled to commence in January.

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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North America is pleased to announce the appointment of a new dealership in Plainview, Long Island, New York, USA.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Long Island will open on October 10th, 2009 and will be located at 45 South Service Road in Plainview, New York. It will join the North American Rolls-Royce Motor Cars dealer network as one of only 34 showrooms on the continent. The dealership will also be selling vehicles under the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Provenance programme, certifying previously owned Rolls-Royce motor cars for client acquisition.

The new dealership will be operated by Mr. Stuart Hayim, a property developer and champion powerboat racer, and his sons Garrett and Gregg. Together, they have been building a growing collection of boutique automotive showrooms for the last five years. Since opening their first dealership, the Hayim family has donated a portion of every sale to charity.

“We are privileged to offer the world’s most renowned ultra-luxury car. The selection process for Rolls-Royce dealers is extremely rigorous and we are very excited to join the expanding Rolls-Royce network”, says Hayim.

“Our focus has always been based on customer service and that customer-centered culture emanates throughout our team”, says Thomas Roach, Executive Vice President of Operations at the new dealership.

Paul Ferraiolo, President of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North America, notes: “We welcome Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Long Island to our dealer network. Their team has a long standing passion for automobiles. We have selected them as our newest dealer because they have demonstrated a dedication to quality and service.”

With a glorious history dating back to 1904, Rolls-Royce is recognized around the world as the choice for individuals with the most discerning taste in motor cars. For 2009, Rolls-Royce has a four model line-up: Phantom, Phantom Extended Wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé. The all-new Rolls-Royce Ghost, the first of a new model series was recently unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

The Rolls-Royce Ghost will be the latest hand-built offering from the Rolls-Royce manufacturing plant in Goodwood, England. Smaller, more informal and dynamic than the Phantom, Ghost presents an integration of classic Rolls-Royce coachwork with the latest technology. North American customers will begin taking deliveries of the Rolls-Royce Ghost in the spring of 2010.

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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will unveil its new production model, Ghost, at the Frankfurt motor show on 15 September 2009.

The car will be unveiled by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Chairman, Ian Robertson and CEO, Tom Purves at a press conference at 16.00 CET.

Autumn 2006, Paris motor show: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced that work had begun on a new model series. The new car would be in production and on sale by the turn of the decade. The only other facts confirmed at that stage were that it would be smaller than the Phantom saloon and priced somewhere between €200,000 and €300,000 before tax. Speculation about its style and specification began almost immediately...

Little was seen of the new car, codenamed RR4, until the spring of 2008, when Rolls-Royce released the first official sketches. The styling was instantly recognisable as a Rolls-Royce, although less traditional than previous models. At the time Chief Designer, Ian Cameron, said, “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, yet with powerful, purposeful proportions. It is a true and uncompromising Rolls-Royce in every sense.”

As sightings of secret development models on the road increased, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled 200EX, the experimental forerunner to Ghost, at the Geneva motor show in March 2009. An instant hit, 200EX bore the trademark Rolls-Royce design cues but in altogether more compelling fashion. It was a clear statement of intent.

What the design team was seeking to create was a modern Rolls-Royce that achieved a new dynamism but remained true to its luxurious heritage. They had found inspiration in contemporary furniture, architecture and yachts but also in the spirit of the 1930s – that sense of adventure and endeavour – which they wanted to capture in the character of this new car.

“200EX is a modern execution of timeless Rolls-Royce elegance, breaking with some areas of tradition but retaining the core values that make our marque unique,” said Chief Executive Officer Tom Purves. “We expect the more informal design to broaden the appeal of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, attracting people who appreciate its fusion of refinement, new technology and contemporary style.”

After the show, 200EX embarked on a world tour, during which further information about the forthcoming production model became available. It would be powered by a new 6.6 litre V12 unique to the marque, delivering 563 bhp with extraordinary performance figures. It would ride on an intelligent air suspension system offering peerless ride and dynamics. And it would be called Ghost.

“Ghost is one of the most revered names in automotive industry,” said Tom Purves. “It evokes images of adventure and technical innovation. The first cars to bear the Ghost name were known not only for impressive dependability and refinement but also great flair and style.”

Following the overwhelmingly positive reaction to 200EX during its travels, very few changes were made in the transition to the production Ghost – a tribute to the remarkable achievements of Ian Cameron’s and Helmut Riedl’s design and engineering teams.

In September 2009, the new Rolls-Royce Ghost was formally launched to the world.

DESIGNING THE FUTURE

“Simplicity is the hardest design principle to follow.” Ian Cameron, Chief Designer

Ghost’s flowing lines are dominated by its majestic ‘Yacht Line’ styling. Large, uninterrupted surfaces flow between finely sculpted horizontal lines that provide definition. Together, the upward-sweeping sill line and low-cut roof create a powerful profile, almost as though the cabin has been pushed toward the rear. Powerful shoulders and flanks draw in sharply as they flow from the rear wings to the tail lights, while touches such as the optional chromed exhausts hint at Ghost’s more dynamic nature.

While incorporating classic Rolls-Royce design cues – the elevated prow, long bonnet, short front overhang, sharply raked A-pillar and elegant tail – Ghost exudes an informal aura. Contemporary touches include self-righting wheel centres and the Xenon headlamps that frame the latest evolution of the Rolls-Royce grille. Here the sides of the intake have been curved inwards and the vanes set back into the opening. “We wanted this to be less reminiscent of the traditional Parthenon style and more like a jet intake,” says Ian Cameron.

A contrasting Silver Satin finish (introduced on 200EX) is an option for the bonnet, grille and windscreen surround. The finish is achieved by setting silver metallic paint under a layer of lacquer, giving a flawless matte finish.

The central principle of delivering simplicity out of complexity runs throughout Ghost. Everything is designed, engineered and crafted to enhance the drive and ride experience, not to complicate it.

“Ghost is as refined and cosseting as anything this marque has ever produced.”
Charles Coldham, Interior Designer

Inside Ghost, the interior design team has come up with a contemporary ambience while staying true to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ traditions of fine materials and peerless comfort. There are elegant, frosted lamps and chrome door handles, traditional violin key switches and eyeball air vents, frosted white dials and refined instrumentation. Deep-pile carpets can be complemented by optional lambswool floor mats for a truly luxurious feel.

Ghost is entered through substantial doors. Housed within the front doors are integrated Teflon-coated umbrellas. The rear doors are traditional, rear-hinged coach doors, opening to a generous 83 degrees. Once the passenger is inside, these doors can be closed at the touch of a button. The interior space is filled with natural light, enhanced by the optional Panorama Sunroof, which extends from the front into the rear compartment.

Four-zone automatic air conditioning can be individually tailored to each passenger’s requirements, with separate controls for front and rear. Automatic air recirculation, condensation prevention and solar compensation are delivered through classic chromed eyeball vents controlled via organ-stop plungers.

Within Ghost’s ample doors and high shoulder line, occupants feel serene, cosseted and safe. In the rear, the intimate ambience of the lounge seat is emphasised by its position behind the C-pillar, heightening the sense of privacy. The informal seating creates a convivial environment, its slight curve allowing you to turn more easily towards the person next to you. Its elevated position gives a clear view past the electronically retracting Spirit of Ecstasy to the road ahead.

Individual lounge seating is offered as an alternative to the standard lounge configuration. This allows the addition of a massage function and also perforated leather for a cooling stream of air from the seat surface. Auxiliary rear climate control allows the passenger to regulate the temperature of the air on their side of the car, without intrusion on the other. A cool box with interior illumination and integrated champagne glasses is also available.

Veneered picnic tables are another option, incorporating the finest leather and veneers matched to the rest of Ghost’s interior. Fitted to the rear of each front seat, these tables are a traditional Rolls-Royce design cue and finished with a veneered surface with leather-covered backs.

“Ghost is designed to be an escape from the outside world.”

Alan Sheppard, Interior Designer

Enhancing the Ghost ambience is an audio system delivering an exquisite experience. 600 Watts of sound are delivered through a 10-channel amplifier and 16 speakers, including two floor-mounted subwoofers. USB and auxiliary inputs allow for the integration of external audio devices and a 12.5 GB hard drive enables storage of music files from USB or CD player sources.

Available as an option with both seating arrangements is Theatre Configuration, which allows all settings that do not directly affect the driver to be controlled from the rear seat. The functions are displayed on two 9.2in LCD screens in the back of the front seats; these can be angled to suit the viewers by a central, armrest-mounted, rotary controller. The screens can be regulated independently of each other and the entertainment can also be listened to individually with most headphones. A six-disc multi-media changer, mounted in the glove compartment, is fitted as part of this option.

ENGINEERING A BENCHMARK

“The balance of refinement and dynamic ability is astonishing.”
Helmut Riedl, Engineering Director

When considering a Rolls-Royce car it is usual to think of wood, leather and chrome, but the company has its roots in engineering. The refinement of its end product stems from its engineers’ desire to get the smallest details correct. Long before the interior items are prepared, experts are working to ensure that the chassis components, power trains and bodywork are operating in fluid harmony. This is a world where welds are an art form and craftsmanship exists at a nano level.

Ghost is built around a steel monocoque body, which means there is no separation of chassis and body. The advantage of this construction is a reduction in exterior dimensions while preserving interior space. Consequently while Ghost is 400mm shorter overall than the Phantom saloon its interior space is comparable.

The body has been engineered with a double front bulkhead to help insulate the interior from engine noise. It is constructed from steel sections and then wrapped in steel panels, which are brazed by hand. This allows a near-seamless join, which is then sanded by hand until it is perfect. In total, Ghost’s frame contains 4.9m of seam weld and braze and 6,988 spot-welds. The bonnet and windscreen surround are then honed from aluminium.

“A Rolls-Royce should be graceful in every way: the way it handles, feels and brakes.”
Helmut Riedl, Engineering Director

Ghost rides on a bed of air. Double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension work with an intelligent, four-cornered, air-suspension system and electronic variable damping to deliver the refinement that has been associated with Rolls-Royce for more than 100 years.

The new air suspension system in Ghost is so sensitive that it can detect even the smallest of changes. For example, it will sense the movement of a single rear passenger from one side of the seat to the other and compensate accordingly. A complex computer system reads multiple inputs from sensors around the car; the dampers alone make individual load calculations every 2.5 milliseconds. This ensures not only perfect comfort but also precise steering and dynamics for the driver. The air suspension system also incorporates a lift and kneel function, raising or lowering Ghost by 25mm.

Ghost also has a series of complex electronic aids to keep it composed on virtually any surface. These include Anti-Roll Stabilisation, Dynamic Brake Control and Dynamic Stability Control, including Dynamic Traction Control and Cornering Brake Control. These individual technologies work together under dual Integrated Chassis Management systems, meaning that even when subjected to a vigorous test Ghost remains perfectly poised. Its handling and safety systems operate as one, imperceptibly to the driver and passengers, to maintain optimum contact with the road in any condition.

“Our challenge,” says Engineering Director Helmut Riedl, “has been to preserve the prerequisite levels of comfort while delivering the most modern, dynamically interesting drive ever in a Rolls-Royce.”

Ghost is powered by a brand new, 6.6 litre twin-turbo V12 engine, unique to the model. Featuring direct injection, it produces 563bhp – enough to propel Ghost from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds* and on to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. With 780 Nm of torque available at just 1,500rpm, delivery of power is immediate and extremely smooth.

Power is transmitted through an eight-speed, shift-by-wire, automatic ZF gearbox. What this achieves is a feeling of endless, surging power, which is illustrated by the power reserve gauge on the fascia, replacing the more common rev counter. The new powertrain delivers this performance while emitting just 317g/km of CO2.Fuel consumption is 20.8 mpg / 13.6 l/100km.*

Safety remains paramount and the very latest technologies are used in Ghost. Side-impact beams in the front and rear doors combine with progressive rear crumple zones to absorb impacts. The Advanced Crash and Safety Management (ACSM) system takes measurements 2,000 times per second from sensors located around the vehicle. The ACSM uses this information – in conjunction with the engine and chassis management systems – to judge which safety features to deploy in which areas in the event of an accident. If necessary, ACSM will activate – among other things – seatbelt pre-tensioners and all encompassing airbags surrounding the cabin, creating a safe zone for all occupants.

A MODERN ROLLS-ROYCE

Ghost is the most powerful car that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has ever produced. However, Rolls-Royce power is delivered in a very different manner to other cars. It arrives in an elegant, cosseting way that some have described as being designed to lower the pulse, not raise it.

The principle of simplicity extends to the act of driving Ghost. The host of complex engineering software and technologies beneath the surface serve to make driving easier and more enjoyable, not to intrude or confuse.

“Nothing should distract from the pleasure of driving Ghost.”

Helmut Riedl, Engineering Director

Ghost is more driver-focused than any Rolls-Royce car before it. The driver sits in a slightly elevated position behind the wheel, described as the authority position. This makes the view of the road much clearer. The fascia has been kept deliberately clear; it is spacious in design and has an intuitive layout. The controls are neatly sculpted, with the more important functions emphasised by accents of chrome. The soft light of the instrument panel glows through the familiar black-rimmed steering wheel, which in turn employs a number of violin keys as well as an ergonomic roller-ball control.

The control centre display is concealed behind a veneered panel until its services are called upon. All features such as satellite navigation, telephone, communication and entertainment functions are displayed here and managed via a central rotary controller, flanked by quick-access buttons on the front centre console.

The optional driver assistance systems and technologies in Ghost are notable for their discretion and ease of operation. From the moment the driver approaches the car, optional Comfort Entry** allows easy access, unlocking the doors when the key fob is within 1.5 metres and the cool chromed handle is grasped. Once you are in the car, voice control allows you to select from the control systems menus without using the central controller.

For ease of manoeuvring, cameras located around the car serve a number of purposes. Rear, front side and top view cameras can combine to give a fish-eye view at blind junctions or provide ground images with obstacle recognition and reverse path prediction when parking.

Positioned discreetly within the grille is a Night Vision** camera. When activated, this safety feature works with Pedestrian Recognition to detect objects up to 300 metres away and display them on the central screen in the dash. The car’s control system receives infrared heat images from the camera and, taking into account the car’s speed and direction, classifies them to assess imminent danger. It then determines what action, if any, needs to be taken and if necessary displays a warning to the driver.

The Head-up Display relays crucial information such as speed or navigation directions onto the windscreen directly in front of the driver. This information is visible only to the driver and can be tailored to show only the details required and at a position suitable to the driver.

Lane Departure Warning** alerts the driver should the car start to drift out of its current lane. When activated, it uses an integrated camera, located just in front of the rear view mirror, to monitor road markings and the vehicle’s position. The driver is warned by a discreet vibration through the steering wheel. If the driver uses the directional indicators before and after the lane change, the wheel will not vibrate.

High Beam Assistance** automatically manages the operation of dipped and main beam lights while driving at night. When activated, the same camera used by the Lane Departure Warning system monitors the light from any source at the front of the vehicle and automatically dips or raises the headlights accordingly. Adaptive, directional headlights also improve illumination of the road ahead and adapt to the road conditions, be they rain or fog or simply when the car is making a turn.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go** creates a relaxing driving experience, particularly on long cruising journeys, as action is not required when the car ahead speeds up or slows down, even when coming to a standstill. Active Brake Intervention** also allows hill descent at a constant speed and the car’s Curve Speed Limiter communicates with the car’s Dynamic Stability Control systems to reduce speed on bends if safety and comfort may be compromised.

LEGENDARY CRAFTSMANSHIP

Rolls-Royce has a reputation for producing cars that transcend the mere automotive. There is a magic attached to the name, which stems in part from exquisite attention to detail and the fine materials used throughout.

Passing through 60 pairs of hands, the production process involves more than 2,000 individual operations and takes at least 20 days to complete.

“We don’t just paint our cars, we strive to create an incredibly deep, flawless shine.”
Lisa Taylor, Paint Associate

Ghost shares the same paint shop as Phantom and spends seven days being painted and polished to perfection. Five stages are required for the Ghost body. First a phosphate electro-coat is applied to protect against corrosion, then a layer of primer, a colour coat and finally two coats of clear lacquer. The body is hand-sanded between each layer and once the final coat is applied it is hand-polished for five hours.

Ghost is available in 12 exterior colours, each of which can be contrasted by the optional Silver Satin bonnet.

Flawless leather is an absolute requirement for the interior of a Rolls-Royce. For this reason, our leather is sourced from bulls raised in pastures free of barbed wire, ensuring that there are fewer imperfections in the leather. Any other marks are carefully avoided by our skilled laser cutters. At least eight hides are used for an interior, and to ensure colour consistency, each hide comes from a batch dyed at the same time. The hides are drum-dyed rather than painted, ensuring that the colour permeates right through the leather. The process also means the leather remains much more supple, preventing cracking or squeaking and ensuring durability and longevity. All seats and interior panels are hand-stitched, using traditional upholstering techniques by those most skilled at their craft.

The natural beauty of the veneers in Ghost is brought to life by the skill of dedicated craftsmen and women. The natural burrs and grains are chosen for their intricacy and interest: veneer specialists choose only the finest logs from which these very thin cross sections are taken. Only veneer from one tree is used in any car. This ensures not only that the grain matches throughout the interior, but that each area ages and colours at the same pace. The parts are milled and sanded by hand before being coated with five layers of lacquer for protection and a mirror-like shine.

EPILOGUE

Ghost is a vision of simplicity – of taking the core values of Rolls-Royce and creating contemporary effortless luxury. Ghost has been engineered to ride and drive in peerless fashion. The chassis’ poise delivers a dynamically engaging experience for the driver, yet a serene, comfortable ride for passengers. Engine power is delivered in a manner which has become an engineering signature, seemingly effortlessly and endlessly. The latest in-car technology falls easily to hand while forming part of the background.

Ghost embodies 21st-century Rolls-Royce: more than 100 years of engineering and design excellence expressed in modern and uncompromised style.

The Aston Martin One-77 has been awarded the ‘Best Design’ Accolade in the 2009 Auto Express New Car Awards, as voted for by readers of the UK automotive magazine.

Adding to a growing collection of compliments from around the world, the Auto Express award joins a Design Award from the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este received in April after the One-77 starred in the Concept Cars and Prototypes category.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Auto Express Motoring Editor, Dan Strong said: “Our readers responded in their thousands this year and the One-77 dominated the entire poll, picking up more than a third of all the votes cast and was the clear victor in this category seeing off some tough competition.”

The One-77 is Aston Martin’s definitive sports car, one that epitomises everything Aston Martin from technology, hand-craftsmanship of the hand rolled aluminium panels to the attention to detail. A culmination of all the marque’s know-how, the One-77 delivers effortless beauty guaranteed to stir the senses with performance potential eclipsing any previous Aston Martin. It’s this extraordinary workmanship and money-no-object commitment to quality that makes the One-77 unique. It promises a driving experience of unrivalled intensity and excitement while representing the world’s most desirable automotive art form.

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage race car which swept to a stunning debut class victory in the 37th Nürburgring 24 hour race in May will compete in the Shelsley Walsh National Hill Climb Festival on 15/16 August 2009.

The near production standard V12 Vantage will make its UK competition debut at the historic hill climb course in Worcestershire, UK. In continuous use since 1905, Shelsley Walsh was the first purpose built motor sport venue in history and has continued to be at the heart of British motor sport ever since. Shelsley was founded and is still run today by The Midland Automobile Club and the annual hill climb attracts in excess of 200 competitors and some 30,000 spectators.

The hill climb course is 1,000 yards (914m) in length and no more than 12 feet (3.66m) wide at its narrowest points. It is notably steep, rising 328 feet (100m) over the length of the course making Shelsley a hill on which power is especially important.

The V12 Vantage will be driven by UK motoring journalists Richard Meaden - who formed part of the driver team that piloted the car to victory at the Nürburgring in May and Matt Prior from Autocar magazine.

Aston Martin’s Head of Motorsport, David King said: “The brief but daunting challenge of the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb is a complete contrast to the Nürburgring 24 hour race where the V12 Vantage recently took class victory and as such we are not expecting to beat the hill climb specialists. However, it will be a privilege to give the car its UK competition debut at such a special and historic venue which is on the doorstep of our global headquarters.”

Practice day for the Shelsley Walsh National Hill Climb is on Saturday 15 August with the first runs of the competition taking place on Sunday 16 August from 9.30am.

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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole MotorCars Co., Ltd, as its authorised dealer in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan.

The company is part of the Nicole Group of Companies which has been active in the automotive luxury market in Japan for more than 30 years.

The new dealership, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Yokohama, will commence operations immediately and is headed by Nico Roehreke, President and CEO of Nicole Group of Companies.

Speaking at a signing ceremony for the dealer appointment, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Director for the Asia Pacific, Colin Kelly said, “This is an important milestone for the expansion of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars business in Japan, particularly as we add Ghost to our pinnacle range of cars. Ghost is the first of a new model series which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show in September. We expect to be able to present the car in Japan during October.”

On the appointment, Nico Roehreke commented, “After more than 30 years in the Japanese luxury car market, our appointment as the Rolls-Royce partner in the Yokohama and Kanagawa area presents an exciting and significant new challenge to the Nicole Group of Companies”.

The new dealership, the second to be established in Japan, brings the number of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars dealers worldwide to 82. Japan is one of Asia Pacific’s largest markets.

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- Engine power output of 563 bhp / 420 kW / 570 PS @ 5250 rpm
- 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds / 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds
- Top speed of 155 mph / 250 km/h (electronically governed)
- Maximum torque 780 Nm / 575 lb ft @ 1500 rpm

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has confirmed headline performance figures for Ghost, their new model which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

The Ghost will be powered by a brand new 6.6 litre turbo charged V12 engine unique to Rolls-Royce. This engine will produce 563 bhp, delivering a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a governed top speed of 155 mph. The engine is combined with an 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox.

Rolls-Royce Director of Engineering, Helmut Riedl said, “First and foremost Ghost is a Rolls-Royce. This means that despite its extraordinary performance figures it has been engineered for effortless composure and refined power delivery. This is illustrated by the significant levels of low down torque available which makes pulling away very smooth and for an exceptionally relaxed driving experience."

Riedl continues, “Rolls-Royce power is entirely different to anything else in the automotive world. It is delivered free from stress and exertion but at the same time must engage the driver. Ghost is about fingertip control while still enjoying a dynamic connection with the road. Equally passengers need to be cosseted from the physical sensations of acceleration, braking and cornering. Our chassis set up keeps Ghost stable and flat, preventing it from wallowing or pitching in the corners or imposing undesirable forces on those inside.”

Rolls-Royce has already confirmed that the Ghost will ride on an intelligent four corner air suspension system using multi link aluminium front and rear axles. The fully integrated system allows each of the Ghost’s dynamic handling systems to work together in harmony, providing the optimum levels of refinement and comfort at all times.

The vehicle acoustics also play a vital role in creating the authentic Rolls-Royce environment. Naturally engine, exhaust and even tyre noise have been engineered to be inaudible as far as possible, both internally and externally.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Tom Purves, said, “Ghost is not about a single superlative but rather a careful blend of attributes. A Rolls-Royce should carry its power with grace, agility and refinement and this is never achieved by a focus on outright performance. Mastery comes in creating a balance and having driven the Ghost again recently I can say confidently that our engineering team has achieved this in fine style”.

Customer deliveries of Ghost in the UK and Europe will begin late in 2009 with pricing from £165,000 excluding taxes and delivery charges. Customer deliveries in other markets including the USA and Asia Pacific region will begin from the second quarter 2010.

A full technical specification will be released later in the year.

Image by vheilman via Flickr

Image via Wikipedia

The famous start/finish straight at Silverstone racing circuit resonated to the distinctive bellow of a brace of 10MY Jaguar XKR coupes this week as the stars of Channel 5's Fifth Gear set about posting the time to beat in this year's Sunday Times ingear Hot Laps competition.


Now in its second year, the competition gives members of the public the chance to post their very own Hot Lap time in one of the most powerful showroom-standard road cars on sale in Britain today.


And one lucky winner will drive away with a stunning XKR for six months.
Each month a minimum of four lucky Sunday Times readers will be chosen and invited, after a period of instruction, to complete a timed lap of the 1.64mile National Circuit at Silverstone in one of these high-performance cars. Their efforts will be filmed by an onboard camera and posted on Times Online so they, and other readers, can watch their moment of triumph or disaster.


The competition reaches its climax in late September when the fastest drivers are once again invited back to Silverstone for a final head-to-head and the chance to win one of the XKR coupes.


Geoff Cousins, UK Managing Director, Jaguar Cars, said: "'The Jaguar XKR is a dream car for many people so the opportunity to drive one at speed around one of the UK's most famous racing circuits is sure to be a once in a lifetime experience. Despite having more than 500bhp the new XKR really is a forgiving car to drive at any speed so we can expect some really competitive times. In fact Tiff and the Fifth Gear team could be hard pressed to stay at the head of the leader board over the summer".


Sunday Times ingear journalist and Hot Laps Supremo Jason Dawe, said "The combination of one of Britain's greatest motor racing circuits and one of Britain's finest sports cars creates a unique opportunity for ingear readers. I know from experience that the XKR is super quick so it will be interesting to see how our readers get on. I'm expecting to see some very decent times with very little separating the quickest drivers. If the rules didn't exclude me from competing I'd definitely be putting an entry in myself!"

Image via Wikipedia

The fastest Jaguar ever will make its UK debut later this week at the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Jaguar's XFR Prototype made its record-breaking run at the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah last November, reaching a stunning top speed of 225.675mph.

The XFR Prototype, which will be driven by Rocketsports Racing owner, Paul Gentilozzi, the man behind the wheel at Bonneville, appears in Goodwood's 'First Glance' category. A one-off Jaguar XKR will join the 'Supercar run', driven by Mike Cross, Jaguar's Chief Engineer of Vehicle Integrity.

Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars, said: "The essence of the Festival is speed, making it the perfect venue for fielding Jaguar's fastest car ever - the record-breaking XFR Prototype.

"The XKR 'Goodwood Special' has been developed as a one-off to explore the harder side of the XKR's character and allow our engineering team to explore some performance boundaries. The Festival of Speed gives us the opportunity to have fun in a high performance car without all the practical and legal requirements of driving on the road getting in the way!

"These stunning modern Jaguar' will be accompanied by a terrific selection of our 'fastest' and most significant historic vehicles."

In keeping with this year's endurance theme, Jaguar's illustrious heritage will be represented on 'The Hill' in the form of Le Mans winners - the D-type and the C-type. Jaguar will also field the unique XJ13 a car designed for endurance racing in the 1960s but which never competed – yet is still considered by many to be one of the most beautiful racing cars of all time.

Long Nose D-TYPE returns to The Hill
The 1957 Le Mans winning long-nose D-type will roar its way up the hallowed hill climb once again. Duncan Hamilton won the Reims 12-hour race in this car in 1956 along with Ivor Bueb and that same year, Mike Hawthorn entered the 1956 24-hour race at Le Mans with Bueb, finishing sixth. Hawthorn and Bueb drove this car again in 1957 at Sebring, finishing third.

First victory for Jaguar at Le Mans 24-hour race - Jaguar C-TYPE
The C-type brought Jaguar its first victory in the Le Mans 24-hour race. Once the XK120 had finished twelfth in the 1950 Le Mans, demonstrating its abilities in racing, it was clear Jaguar had the makings of a world-beater spurring on chief engineer William Heynes to create a competition version for Le Mans - the C-type.

The only one in the world – Jaguar XJ13
The XJ13 is one of the most beautiful racing cars of all time, thanks to the extraordinary work of aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer. Although the XJ13 was built as a potential Le Mans contender, it never competed in a race due to various business reasons but the potential of this unique 502bhp, 5-litre V12 engine was never doubted.

Bonneville XFR

Running with minor aerodynamic and safety modifications to meet the requirements for a Bonneville run, the 225mph top speed was achieved with additional horsepower liberated by a remapped ECU, a modified air intake and exhaust system and revised supercharger settings. No internal engine components were changed and the six-speed automatic transmission was standard, including the gear ratios. Paul's link with Jaguar comes from his success with the XKR in the American Trans Am Series– he has achieved five series victories between 2001 and 2006.

Goodwood Special XKR

As well as performance enhancements and a louder exhaust, this one-off XKR, based on a MY10 vehicle, features 21-inch wheels and a lowered ride-height. The exterior also stands out with a unique Lime Green paint scheme and XKR exterior graphic along with satin graphite detailing to the front grilles, headlights, door mirrors, side window surrounds, rear signature blade and bonnet louvres.