Rolls-Royce reveals additional details about RR4
Turbocharged 6.6-litre V12 and new eight-speed auto will be among the technical highlightsRolls-Royce is seemingly adopting a drip-feed approach with technical info pertaining to its new RR4 entry-level model that was previewed by the 200EX concept at the Geneva motor show (more here).
The exalted British marque has just revealed two new key bits of nitty-gritty about the RR4; firstly, that it will be powered by a new 6.6-litre turbocharged V12 engine that will be unique to the brand, and secondly that it will debut a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
The company has also announced the twin-turbo V12 unit will put out in excess of 500bhp (upwards of 373kW).
What we already know about the eight-speed auto is that it was developed by transmission specialist ZF, and it was widely thought this transmission would debut in the BMW 7 Series, but a company insider told the Carsales network at the launch of the Bavarian flagship limo that the eight-speeder wasn't ready in time (hence the reason why that car has carried over the previous model's six-speed auto).
The latest details about the RR4 were announced by Rolls-Royce CEO Tom Purves at a press conference in New York, where 200EX concept is currently being shown to potential customers on the first leg of a world tour.
Speaking at the event, Mr Purves said, "There has been a great deal of interest in this car since we first talked about producing a new model series in the autumn of 2006 and the reaction 200EX received at its unveiling at Geneva was very positive.
"As we move another step closer to the start of production at Goodwood, it is exciting to be able to share some of the specific technical details with customers and the media."
He added, "RR4 will deliver an authentic Rolls-Royce experience to owners, so expect peerless comfort and build quality. However, we have consciously engineered this car to be more involving and dynamic for those owners around the world that will wish to drive it themselves."
The company also claims the RR4's new drivetrain will significantly improve fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions over the existing Phantom range.
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