Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced that Wraith has been selected to receive Popular Science Magazine’s 2014 ‘Best of What’s New’ award in its Automotive category. The ‘Best of What’s New’ award is Popular Science’s top honor for innovations. Wraith impressed the judges this year with its combination of innovative design and advanced technology delivered in a luxury package that their choice was clear.
“For 27 years, Popular Science has honored the innovations that surprise and amaze us − those that make a positive impact on our world today and challenge our view of what’s possible in the future.” said Cliff Ransom, Editor-in-Chief of Popular Science. “The ‘Best of What’s New’ Award is the magazine’s top honor, and the 100 winners − chosen from among thousands of entrants − each a revolution in its field,” said Cliff Ransom, Editor-in-Chief, Popular Science.
Commenting on the recognition, President of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North America, Eric C. Shepherd said, “Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is honored that Wraith has been selected. This latest model compliments the marque perfectly, becoming the boldest, most powerful Rolls-Royce that has ever played host to the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. In addition to accolades from Popular Science, the Wraith has inspired a passionate following from Rolls-Royce owners throughout the world since its launch.”
Wraith – Power, Style, Drama
In its design, Rolls-Royce Wraith presents a masterpiece of elegant simplicity, exuding poise and the promise of dynamism. There is a sense that the car is ready to move with purpose on its driver’s command.
Grace and beauty define the exterior presentation. The sweeping lines of the fastback, a style whose origins can be found in 1930s automotive design, most clearly signal its purposeful and thoroughly modern character.
Performance complements the drama of exterior styling. A shorter wheelbase, wider rear track, 624 bhp/465 kW derived from the twin turbo V12 and a 0-60mph of 4.4 seconds (0-100kph, 4.6 seconds) give expression to the car’s dynamic looks.
Inside, Wraith debuted the most intelligent drive train to be featured in a Rolls-Royce, including the application of ground-breaking technologies like Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT). This processes GPS data to predict the driver’s next move and automatically select the right gear for the road ahead. Complementing SAT, Wraith’s further dynamic enhancements include a more direct steering response to aid precision in corners, as well as dynamic spring and damper settings.
In short, Wraith has become the ultimate gentleman’s Gran Turismo building upon the historic endeavors of Sir Henry Royce and the Honorable Charles Rolls, pushing the boundaries of modern design and engineering.
