Rolls-Royce has announced that it will end production of the current Phantom, which was launched in 2003, to make way for the next-generation model set to arrive in 2018.
Additionally, Rolls-Royce boss Torsten Müller-Otvos has also confirmed that the current Phantom Coupé and Drophead models will be axed from the new range. The British carmaker will build the final 50 versions of the Phantom Coupé and Drophead this November, and the cars will be commemorated under the “Phantom Zenith” banner.
The Phantom Zenith models will feature laser-etched armrests depicting the launch locations of each car, bespoke instruments and a special 'Spirit of Ecstasy' figure. Rolls-Royce has also promised customers a ‘money can’t buy’ portable memento.
Rolls-Royce design boss Giles Taylor said: “As the name promises, Zenith will be the pinnacle; the best of its kind; the highest standard achievable by which everything else is judged. Zenith will be the sum of all the best features of Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé, with a few surprises added. We expect huge demand for these 50 fine motor cars as we shall not look upon their like again.”
The next-generation Phantom will switch to an all-aluminium architecture, which has already entered testing and is set to eventually underpin the entire model range. Among the many advantages brought by the new architecture will be the possibility of hybrid and electric powertrains – expected to be available for the next-generation Phantom. The new Phantom is also expected to get latest semi-autonomous driving systems, including lane assist and active steering, and a gesture-controlled and connected infotainment system.
Rolls-Royce is likely to choose a modern, evolutionary design for the next-generation Phantom. Speaking to our sister publication Autocar UK earlier this year, Taylor said the new model would come with “more charisma and more edge,” and wouldn’t be as formal looking as the car available today.