Inside Asian Gaming

Drophead Gorgeous High-Roller Accessories If the Inside Asian Gaming crew were fond of puns, we’d delight in stressing the need for any self-respecting high- stakes gambler to have at least one Roller in the garage. Instead, we’ll just get straight to giving you the lowdown on the new Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé In 2004, Rolls-Royce unveiled 100EX, a striking experimental drophead built to celebrate 100 years of arguably the most famous automotive brand in the world. Built without compromise, it encapsulated a century of el- egance and engineering, and, in an instant, defined the future direction of the brand. In its two world tours, 100EX garnered positive comments from customers and the media alike. Such was the strength of the reaction that, in the au- tumn of 2005, Rolls-Royce announced that a production version would be available by 2007. In the interim years, the team at Goodwood have worked tirelessly to turn the experimental car into a reality. Launched at the Detroit Motor Show 2006, the Phantom Drophead Coupé is the second new model from Rolls-Royce since BMW Group became cus- todian of the marque in 1998. The two-door, four-seat convertible is a less formal interpretation of classic Rolls-Royce design. Using the lightweight rigidity of an all-aluminium spaceframe, it marries modern technology to a sleek, streamlined convertible body. Its exterior lines echo the timeless styling of the great Rolls-Royce cars: a long bonnet, large-diameter wheels, short front and long rear overhangs and the quintessential dynamic line descending along its flanks. Inside, the design emphasises the airy openness of top-down motoring, embracing the elements and creating a stunning, social environment. The Drophead Coupé has been carefully crafted to be aesthetically pleas- ing, yet practical. Wood, leather, chrome and brushed steel have been used where most appropriate. Form and function have equal billing. The simplic- ity of the design belies a car built to provide years of effortless service. The Phantom Drophead Coupé offers owners an unparalleled convertible experience, combining compelling driveability with exceptional engineering, technology and design – hand-crafted from the finest materials to an ex- ceptional level of quality.