This could be the most desirable convertible that nobody can acquire.
Recently, the British car manufacturer Rolls-Royce unveiled its latest electric two-door vehicle known as "Project Nightingale."
Manufacturing will commence at the company's plant in Goodwood, UK, in the coming year, but there is a caveat: all 100 examples have already been purchased.
For those fortunate enough to be able to afford a Rolls-Royce, Project Nightingale does maintain a waiting list. The convertible, a component of the company's fresh Coachbuild Collection, will be undeniably expensive and lavish — Rolls-Royce's CEO Chris Brownridge remains elusive regarding the price when questioned — and exemplifies how the 120-year-old marque persists in revitalizing its image.
The demand for individualized Rolls-Royces is so substantial that the enterprise invested millions in growing its idyllic establishment in Goodwood. Actually, Brownridge indicated that his group has been enlisting individuals who are "tailors, tattoo artists and cabinet makers" for roles demanding specialized expertise and artistry.
The automobile sector has been experiencing notable shifts during the past year, although Rolls-Royce seems unaffected by the turbulence.
"Nothing causes me concern," Brownridge stated to ABC News from the company's private office located in New York. "We currently hold a very commanding position. We're an enterprise that is nimble, that is robust, and we're an enterprise possessing a remarkably thrilling future."
Brownridge discussed the company's considerable investment, how its custom-made business is prospering, and the reasons behind Rolls-Royce's familial essence.
The subsequent interview has undergone editing for improved clarity.
Q: At what point did you initially begin contacting customers regarding the Nightingale Project?
A: We have, in fact, been in communication with patrons for quite some time. Roughly eighteen months prior, we engaged with clients [and presented them with] a basic sketch, quite literally. And they pledged their commitment to the endeavor.
Rolls-Royce says the Nightingale Project drew inspiration from high-speed experimental “EX” Rolls-Royces of the 1920s.Rolls-Royce
Project Nightingale represents the debut of our Coachbuild Collection. The exterior contours of the vehicle will remain consistent, but the manner of its realization for each patron will differ. The commissioning phase is now set to begin.
The Coachbuild Collection constitutes a segment of our corporate strategy, entirely focused on the creation of more significant Rolls-Royces. As a consequence of this venture and forthcoming projects, in conjunction with the substantial growth we are observing in bespoke orders, we are expanding the Goodwood manufacturing plant. We have allocated upwards of £300 million towards incorporating 40,000 square meters of additional space, thereby ensuring our capacity to produce these exceptional automobiles. Our corporate strategy is unambiguous: to craft more remarkable motorcars.
Rolls-Royce has been undergoing a massive expansion of its manufacturing plant in Goodwood, England.Rolls-Royce
Q: What is the rationale behind capping production at 100 units?
A: We are producing 100 examples of the Project Nightingale automobiles because it is a truly lavish and singular vehicle. We considered that to be the fitting quantity for this undertaking. We have a waiting list for this motorcar. Rarity continues to be utterly inviolable for Rolls-Royce.
The interior of the new Nightingale Project electric car.Rolls-Royce
Q: The majority of Project Nightingale clients are already owners of the electric Spectre. Did this come as a surprise?
A: We collaborated with these specific clients because we anticipated it would resonate strongly with their passions. Our intention is for this extraordinary automobile to find residence in suitable ownership. And naturally, it qualifies as a collector's artifact. However, we are equally confident that these patrons will utilize it. And that aspect carries even greater significance, as it ensures visibility. It will generate considerable fascination when observed on public roads.
Q: Did the engineers involved in the project encounter any obstacles in materializing this design?
A: Quite the contrary. The engineers found great enthusiasm in the project due to its intrinsically captivating nature. Undertaking a venture such as this presented difficulties, yet they succeeded in accomplishing something truly remarkable. Witnessing the actual motorcar is an awe-inspiring experience.
Q: Who ultimately decided to designate Project Nightingale as an electric two-seater as opposed to an SUV?
A: The inspiration was rooted in our legacy. During the 1920s, Rolls-Royce was engaged in the production of experimental automobiles. [Engineers] would adapt the running gear of a Phantom I and equip it with a sports-oriented body shell to pursue speed records. The 17EX serves as another quintessential illustration. The 17EX significantly influenced the design [of the Nightingale]. This is an automobile characterized by an exceptionally long hood, an elongated tail, and a compact cabin area. Therefore, our accomplishment lies in crafting a motorcar that evokes that very sensation, albeit within a futuristic Rolls-Royce design paradigm. Project Nightingale offers a revealing glimpse into the forthcoming design trajectory of Rolls-Royce.
Chris Brownridge took over as CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in December of 2023.Rolls-Royce
Q: How does Project Nightingale compare to the Spectre in regards to power and battery capacity?
A: Concerning the technical specifications, we are refraining from disclosing those at present. In the context of the driving dynamic, it constitutes the most unparalleled, luxurious open-top motoring experience. I was privileged to ride in an engineering prototype, and it proved to be truly exceptional. It represented the most remarkable encounter. I am eagerly anticipating the first vehicles to be deployed on the roads. And our testing phase is slated to commence later in the year.
The cars will be assembled towards the end of 2027, with client deliveries occurring in 2028.
Q: How many of the Nightingale vehicles are destined for the U.S. market?
A: A third of the production will be allocated to the U.S. This is a source of excitement for us, as it marks the inaugural instance of our capacity to deliver a coach-built car within the U.S., thereby affording them increased visibility.
The residual distribution is fairly evenly spread across other global regions.
Q: What are your projections regarding orders for the current year, particularly given the decline in equity markets, the surge in fuel costs, and the persistent conflict in Iran?
A: Thus far, 2026 has unfolded precisely as we envisioned. The timeframe for fulfilling our customer orders occasionally extends from six months to two years. Our year-over-year volume of new orders entering the business during the initial quarter exhibited an 8% increase. Irrespective of the turbulent global circumstances, demand is gaining momentum.
We are a celebrated marque possessing over 120 years of heritage and a clientele spanning every corner of the globe. When one particular market exhibits strength while another falters, this grants us resilience. And due to the adaptive nature of our production facility, it truly leverages our inherent strengths.
The Black Badge Spectre.Rolls-Royce
Presently, we are observing robust and consistent demand across all global regions. Of course, the ongoing situation in the Middle East is precipitating some degree of impact. We are taking all possible steps to aid our clientele and maintain our deliveries concerning logistics.
Q: Does the Cullinan SUV continue to hold the position as the top-selling model in the U.S.?
A: The Cullinan has proven to be an immensely successful Rolls-Royce. Each year has witnessed escalating demand for the Cullinan since its original introduction in 2018. In 2024, we unveiled the Cullinan Series II, which resulted in even more substantial [sales]. The second most sought-after vehicle last year was the Spectre.
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II adds even more luxury and style compared to the first gen model.Rolls-Royce
Q: Virtually every luxury automaker extends bespoke or personalized commissions for affluent clientele. How does Rolls-Royce sustain its distinguishing characteristics?
A: What emerges definitively from research is that the patterns of ultra-high-end luxury consumption are undergoing a shift away from the mere possession of objects and toward the acquisition of experiences. And upon procuring a Rolls-Royce, you transcend the mere acquisition of a motorcar, you essentially gain entry into a familial and communal domain encompassing Rolls-Royce. We orchestrate remarkable experiences for our clientele. Concurrently, we persist in innovating upon the extent of bespoke potential.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com