Shanghai saw the world debut of a new, ultra-luxurious Rolls-Royce, the Ghost Extended Wheelbase, at this week’s motor show. The longer wheelbase (by 170mm) allows even more interior space, making this new model the ideal car in which to be chauffeured – or to drive oneself.

While there is significantly more leg-room than in the standard Ghost, and more than double the knee-room, Rolls-Royce has been careful that the extra length is no detriment to the car’s balanced proportions. Meanwhile, the 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine produces an effortless 563HP and 780Nm of torque, to propel the Ghost Extended Wheelbase from rest to 62mph in just five seconds.

“Ghost Extended Wheelbase delivers all the poise and dynamism enjoyed by discerning Ghost owners, with the indulgent experience of an extended wheelbase car. It is the very best of both worlds,” said CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös. He added, “This is the first time we have undertaken a world launch of a Rolls-Royce car in China, underscoring the strategic significance of this market and the Asia Pacific region.”

The Ghost Extended Wheelbase will be built to order and is available in only limited numbers this year, with full production due to start in 2012. Also seen in Shanghai was a specially commissioned China Edition bespoke Ghost, to showcase the company’s bespoke capabilities for the Chinese market, and the Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Collection cars.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Rolls-Royce