The outgoing Ghost shares
a steel monocoque with the BMW 7 Series, but the new model’s bespoke
architecture signifies Rolls-Royce’s greater autonomy from its parent firm. In
the Phantom, the platform is claimed to result in a 30 percent improvement in
body stiffness over its predecessor. However, given the outgoing car’s
relatively modern platform, the rigidity gains for the Ghost are likely to be
less. The move from steel to aluminium should also make the 2020 Ghost lighter
than the current car, which weighs 2.36 tonnes in standard form and 2.45 tonnes
in extended-wheelbase guise. However, Rolls-Royce is likely to offset some of
the kerb weight benefit with an increase in technology, equipment and
insulation.
Spy shots reveal that
some of the car’s mechanical development and testing is taking place in BMW’s
German facilities, rather than at Rolls-Royce’s Good wood headquarters. A
6.6-litre, twin-turbocharged V12, shared between both brands, was developed to
Rolls-Royce’s own specifications and will feature in the Ghost. The engine
develops 585hp and 849Nm of torque in the range-topping BMW M760Li xDrive, but
sources suggest it could produce more in the new Rolls-Royce. Unlike the outgoing
model, the Ghost also looks likely to adopt four-wheel drive, which when mated
to a faster-shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox should mean better
acceleration. With a decrease in weight and the engine’s greater on-paper
efficiency, small fuel economy gains are likely, although extra tank range is
more of a priority for Rolls-Royce owners.
The Ghost could use the
technological advancements introduced in the latest Phantom and Cullinan. And
that includes the 48V electrical architecture, allowing an active anti-roll
system, while four-wheel steering should also improve low-speed agility and
high-speed stability. The interior of the new Ghost has yet to be seen, but it
is expected to reflect the same blend of traditional coach-built material
richness and discreet, high-end tech of its current siblings, which means
features like digital dials, a head-up display and active safety features, as
well as details such as an infotainment screen that electrically slides out of
sight when not required.