Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail unveiling

author: FutureCar Staff    

When the owner of a multinational gemstone company has millions of pounds to spare, they commission a custom-made Rolls-Royce Droptail adorned with dazzling stones. This bespoke vehicle, named the Amethyst, is the second of four unique versions of the coachbuilt Rolls-Royce Droptail. The client's identity remains secret, but it has been revealed that they are the owner of a family-run gemstone company, a collector of valuable cars, and the amethyst gem is their son's birthstone.

The purple amethyst stone features prominently in the design of the Amethyst. The Spirit of Ecstasy is surrounded by amethyst "cabochons," which are polished stones with a rounded finish. This was done at the buyer's request to avoid a flashy appearance. More amethyst cabochons can be found inside the car, placed in the center of the rotary dials on the dashboard. The gemstone's color is mirrored throughout the cabin, with the primary hue of the interior being the new "Amethyst" purple leather. It is contrasted with highlights of Sand Dunes and Calamander Light open-pore wood veneer.

The back of the car features a significant amount of wood, not for sunbathing purposes but for aerodynamic reasons. Rolls-Royce's aerodynamicists and wood specialists worked together to find the right textures and angles of the panels to improve airflow towards the rear of the car. The Droptail is the only car in the world that generates downforce using a raw wood surface.

Contrary to expectations, the Droptail is not simply a modified Phantom with the roof removed. It is based on a bespoke carbon, aluminum, and steel monocoque, specifically designed for the Droptail. Instead of being electric like the Spectre, it is equipped with Rolls-Royce's twin turbocharged V12 engine. Although no specific power figures have been disclosed, it is safe to assume that the car has ample power for a luxurious driving experience.

According to design director Anders Warming, the Amethyst Droptail represents the accurate creative response of Rolls-Royce in projecting the soul of an individual client. It is a testament to the brand's ability to incorporate both literal and highly conceptual expressions of personal luxury. This commission is also rumored to be one of the most expensive in the company's history, with estimates suggesting a price tag in the tens of millions. For those seeking a purple Rolls-Royce without the hefty price, the Ghost Black Badge is available for £374,950, although it does not come with aerodynamic wood decking.

FutureCar Staff