In 2020, Rolls-Royce launched the Ghost, but unlike any other model before it, the new iteration of the ultra-luxury automaker’s car is significantly more modest than its predecessor. But did you know something was wrong with the new Rolls-Royce Ghost soundproofing?
The soundproofing of the new Rolls-Royce Ghost was overengineered that passengers found the near-total silence disturbing, and some even felt sick. To create a constant gentle whisper, acoustic experts had to go back and “harmonize” numerous sounds in the car.
The Silent Ghost
The new Ghost was designed to be a soothing and peaceful environment. However, Rolls-Royce engineers noticed that the car was too quiet on the inside. According to the British automaker, passengers found the near absolute stillness disconcerting because it didn’t align with the car’s movement.
The car had been fitted with 220 pounds of sound-insulating material, including inner window glass and tires. They checked at things like the windshield wipers and air vents to see if any small noises weren’t noticeable.
An odd and unsettling near-total quiet resulted. Other noises were amplified, such as someone else’s breathing or pants slipping against leather seats.
As a result, there was an unusual and unnatural near-total silence. Other noises, such as someone else’s breathing or pants slipping against leather chairs, become considerably more noticeable. (Source: CNN)
The Premium Feel of the Luxury Car
According to Rolls-Royce, the Ghost is a car owner who prefers to drive themselves rather than be driven. While Rolls-Royce vehicles are not designed to be exciting, they can be delightful to drive, providing a sense of ease and control. Rolls-Royce steering wheels, for example, have narrow rims that encourage a gentle fingertip touch rather than a tight grip.
According to the automaker, the Ghost is supposed to provide the best of that type of experience. According to the company, the turbocharged V12 engine is housed behind the front wheels, which helps give the car a perfect 50/50 weight balance over the front and back wheels. The Ghost also has all-wheel drive and four-wheel steering. When the front wheels turn, the back wheels also turn slightly.
While Rolls-Royce is a subsidiary of BMW in Germany, the latest generation of Rolls-Royce models, including this one, are based on a fundamental engineering design exclusive to the brand. The new Phantom and the Cullinan SUV share versions of the Ghost’s aluminum framework.
Cameras in the Ghost scan the road ahead for surface changes and imperfections so that the suspension can react to them. The automatic transmission in the car uses GPS and map data to select appropriate gears for approaching hills and curves.
The Ghost also has power doors that can be opened and closed by pressing a button inside or outside the vehicle. Previously, the entries could only be completed in this manner, which was at least convenient because Rolls-signature Royce’s rear-hinged back doors, while elegant, can be difficult to approach from the inside. Even when the doors are manually closed, the operation is gently power-assisted. (Source: CNN)