Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II Arrives in Japan | Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II | Rolls-Royce Ghost Series 2

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II Evolves, Arrives in Japan

The Rolls-Royce "Ghost Series II," unveiled at this year's Geneva Motor Show, has finally landed in Japan. While an extended wheelbase (EWB) is available to enhance rear-seat hospitality, its character as a driver's car has also been strengthened.

Text & Event Photographs by UCHIDA Shunichi

Strong Sales in the Japanese Market

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced the "Ghost Series II" on October 31st. The price is 31.32 million yen for the standard body and 37.12 million yen for the Extended Wheelbase (EWB). Deliveries will begin in November.

Rolls-Royce has seen significant growth in the Japanese market, with 71 registrations in the first half of 2014 (April-September), up from 48 in the same period last year (according to JAIA). Michael Schneider, Asia Pacific General Manager for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited, expressed confidence that this year's record sales are likely to be surpassed.

He attributes this to two factors. Firstly, the establishment of showrooms in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka. Secondly, in addition to the existing "Phantom" and "Ghost," the introduction of the two-door fastback coupe, the "Wraith".

The owners of the Wraith are notably younger than those of other models, and there is a higher proportion of new customers. This influence, Schneider notes, has led to an increase in users who drive themselves, not just those who are chauffeured, across other models as well – a global trend.

In light of these changes, the Ghost Series II has evolved further as a driver's car.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II | Rolls-Royce Ghost Series 2

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II Evolves, Arrives in Japan (2)

Exterior Refined with Careful Touches

Schneider explained that while incorporating all user feedback, the exterior has been refreshed with caution. All body panels forward of the A-pillar have been changed with the aim of emphasizing presence and dynamism.

New LED headlights have been adopted, and the distinctive Parthenon grille has been raised by 30mm. The bonnet now features a tapered character line known as the "wake channel."

Furthermore, the Rolls-Royce mascot, the "Spirit of Ecstasy," is now slightly tilted forward, accentuating its dynamic stance. The character line known as the "waft line" at the rear of the front fender's wheel arch has also been reshaped, evoking the dynamic drive of the Ghost.

Additionally, all seat shapes have been revised, enabling an even more comfortable driving experience as a driver's car.

Enhanced Driving Performance as a Driver's Car

The Ghost Series II features a revised transmission. It now employs the satellite-aided transmission found in the Wraith. This system utilizes GPS and map data to recognize intersections and interchanges, proactively selecting the optimal gear for the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission based on road conditions.

New rear axle bearings have been implemented, improving ride comfort and handling stability. Furthermore, a dynamic package that enhances cornering performance, designed with the owner-driver in mind, is now available as an option.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II | Rolls-Royce Ghost Series 2

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II Evolves, Arrives in Japan (3)

Rolls-Royce's Unique Bespoke Customization

Bespoke customization, or special specifications, is an attractive system offered by the company. 82 percent of Ghost owners worldwide, and an astonishing 100 percent in Japan, opt for this service.

For the Ghost Series II, the scope of bespoke customization has been expanded. The range of new colors and wheel options has increased, and two new wood trims have been added: Padauk and Walnut Burr Crossband.

A bespoke audio system has also been developed. According to Mr. Stefan, in-house experts have installed 18 speakers, achieving what he describes as the most emotionally resonant sound in the automotive world.

Historically, Rolls-Royce was strongly associated with being a car to be chauffeured in. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in users who drive themselves, using the rear seats on weekdays and taking the wheel on weekends. The Ghost Series II's evolution is a response to this trend.