Rolls-Royce confirms Wraith-based convertible

One of the world's premiere prestige car brands, Rolls-Royce, has confirmed a new convertible model is well into development.

Although the new model's name has not yet been revealed, the sixth model in the Rolls-Royce range is expected to be based on the current Wraith coupe, and have the same wheelbase and two-door configuration as a result.

Although no details of the new model have been revealed, power is expected to come from the same 6.6-litre V12 that propels the 465kW/800Nm Wraith, a $645,000 proposition.

The Wraith drophead model was spied wearing camouflage in May 2014, but could take on an entirely new name, with reports from the UK suggesting the Corniche name could be revived.

Rolls-Royce has traditionally only ever had a handful of vehicles in its range but as former partner turned arch-rival Bentley forges ahead with new models under the stewardship of the Volkswagen Group, BMW-owned Rolls-Royce is having to expand to remain competitive.

The Chairman of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Peter Schwarzenbauer, said the new car "will build on the success of our current models and will play a key part in fulfilling Rolls-Royce Motor Cars' commitment to long-term sustainable growth".

Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös, said he was "delighted" to confirm the new model, which expected to eclipse the Wraith's $645K asking price, yet attract new customers.

"We are currently developing an exciting and thoroughly contemporary interpretation of a pinnacle drophead tourer which will introduce even more discerning men and women to Rolls-Royce ownership," said Müller-Ötvös.

According to Rolls-Royce, the new convertible Drophead car will "build on the success" of the Wraith, Ghost and Phantom models that constitute its range, and is expected to make its market debut midway through 2016.