Yesterday marked the unveiling of a Rolls-Royce in the UK capital. It's a concept called the Next Vision 100 and much like the BMW Next Vision 100 it's very bold. But unlike the BMW version its rather unsightly in my opinion. But as I could spend all evening disputing its looks let's move on to what the car actually stands for.
The Rolls-Royce Next Vision 100 signals the brands aim to deliver traditional, luxury coach building but in a package that is ready for the future. The brand say the concept will offer a completely personal, effortless and autonomous Rolls-Royce experience. The achieve this the car has been built on four key principles.
The Personal Vision
Rolls-Royce may have revealed its idea of what the future models will look like but customers will have a big say in what will go into the car. Advanced manufacturing technologies will enable customers to get involved in design areas such as space, size and the silhouette of their Rolls-Royce vision. Rolls-Royce will create the chassis of the future which will be hand-built using advanced materials and powering Vision will be a zero emission powertrain.
The Effortless Journey
Since its introduction in 1911 the the Spirit of Ecstasy has been on proud display on every Rolls-Royce model and the Next Vision 100 is no different. It was created by sculptor and artist Charles Sykes who drew his inspiration from actress Eleanor Thornton. The new car draws further inspiration from Eleanor by installing a virtual assistant which bears the same name.
The car acts as a automotive equivalent of Siri and will provide information on schedules, itineraries and also acts as chauffeur. So if Lady Penelope had one one these she would have no more use for Parker - sorry mate. 'Eleanor' is able to bring the car around to the front for an effortless departure, the journey will be effortless as well as Eleanor is able to keep passengers updated with information such as destination time.
The Grand Sanctuary
The Next Vision 100 may look futuristic as something in iRobot but that doesn't mean you will lose the high level of comfort that has been a hallmark of Rolls-Royce for many years. Passengers will be cocooned in a luxurious cabin which is dominated by an OLED screen. On this screen they can view information on the journey, destination or they can simply sit back in the silk-trimmed sofa and watch their favourite TV show.
As much as I don't like the exterior styling I have to say the inside is a lot nicer and reminds me of an upmarket hotel. The floor is lined with a deep-pile ivory wool carpet which is made especially in London, further adding the theme of luxury and comfort.
The Grand Arrival
I think it's safe to say that in a car like this the arrival will always be grand, whether you like the styling or not. It's a car that will simply turn heads and the occupants can ensure all attention is on them. Even so, Rolls-Royce have added features to make this more an 'occasion' rather than just simply getting out the car.
There is a glass canopy hinged on the left side which lifts up as passengers depart the vehicle giving them room to stand making the departure more grand and formal. If that isn't enough there is even a red light that shines from the base of the car which acts as a red carpet. So if you are a shy, introvert kind of person this is certainly not the car of you.
What are your thoughts though? Do you think this is the future of luxury motoring or do you think this is one of the most disproportionate cars you've ever seen? You can see more of the car - whether you want to or not - by checking out this rather cool 360 video.