As we reported a few months back, Rolls-Royce is planning to launch an “entry-level” car in 2010. The design work on the new car was completed and approved in December and the engineering phase has begun. Rolls-Royce CEO Ian Robertson has said that the company is planning for a second shift at its Goodwood, UK, plant to build the new car. The second shift could build roughly 800 cars each year, doubling Rolls-Royce’s annual sales.

While the “baby Rolls” will share some components with parent company BMW’s 7-series and will be about the same size as the long-wheelbase model, the platform and engine for the car would be unique to Rolls-Royce. The new car “will have the attributes and behavior of a Rolls-Royce,” said Robertson. Rolls-Royce hasn’t decided whether the car will be powered by its 6.75L powerplant or whether it will get a new engine.

The new car would be “smaller than the Phantom, but it will be a large car,” Robertson says. But will feature traditional Rolls-Royce attributes like a tall seating position, instant acceleration and a whisper quiet interior.

The new Rolls-Royce will be priced between $250,000 and $300,000. “It is logical to be in that price point, just below where we are,” Robertson said. “There appears to be a gap in that range.”

## Source: Automotive News ##

Posted in: Rolls-Royce, Sedans/Saloons, News, Future Vehicles
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