The Phantom 'Rolls' On

While volume manufacturers may have struggled, sales at many top-end brands powered ahead in 2007. Rolls-Royce was no exception, delivering over 1,000 cars worldwide for the first time including 40 percent of them coming from the U.S.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chairman and CEO Ian Robertson talked about the company's success in 2007 and its plans to add future models that he expects will again expand demand for ultra-luxury cars from the prestigious brand.

Though the Phantom sedan remains the top seller, much of the sales growth came from the convertible Phantom Drophead Coupe, which went on sale during the year. It has a total of 250 sales so far - and a waiting list that current extends through summer 2009 - thoroughly vindicates the decision to add to the model range, and will encourage the company's ambitions for yet more lines.

The soft-top convertible Drophead Coupe resembles the more formal Phantom sedan, but in fact every exterior panel is different. Its teak decking, thin LED headlight panels and brushed aluminum hood mark it out as something rather special.

Not displayed at the show is a coupe version that will go on sale later in 2008.

Also not on show is the as yet un-named forthcoming smaller Rolls-Royce. Robertson said that the design of this car is now fixed, and it is currently undergoing engineering development work. Rolls-Royces have always been big, but even though this one will be smaller, "it will be a truly authentic Rolls-Royce," he said.

A significant move for a company that has a history of using the same design for decades at a time, Robertson indicated that it will also have a completely new engine. The car will go on sale in late 2009.

To accommodate this vehicle, the company's factory at Goodwood in southern England is to undergo significant rebuilding, involving the addition of a second floor and a completely new production line. This work will be completed by late 2008, and the company will be recruiting additional assembly workers and craftspeople to build the new cars in a multi-shift operation.