Rolls-Royce began its Goodwood era at the Festival of Speed.
As Rolls-Royce showcases the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship, luxury, and excellence at its home of Goodwood, the historic manufacturer looks back on the beginning of that journey, which took place over 20 years ago in the early 2000s. Before the legendary Phantom was introduced to the Rolls-Royce portfolio in 2003, the very first cars commissioned for Rolls-Royce in Goodwood were the RR-0.01 and RR-0.02 gravity racers, which were made to compete in the 2001 and 2002 Goodwood Festival of Speed Soapbox Challenges to preview Rolls-Royce’s 2003 relaunch.
Being gravity racers, the cars showed off classic-inspired Rolls-Royce design and timeless beauty, but no engine. They were one-of-one commissions built by the same skilled artisans that would go on to relaunch Rolls-Royce and transform it into the manufacturer we know today. Fiberglass and carbon fiber were used to create the RR-0.01, which previewed the design of the first-generation Goodwood-era Phantom. Ian Cameron, Rolls-Royce’s Design Director at the time, raced it in 2001, winning against the Bentley in the final corner.
The Silver Ghost served as the inspiration for the RR-0.02, and Ian Cameron raced it at the 2002 Goodwood Festival of Speed Soapbox Challenge as well. It not only won the race, but also earned the Merit of Excellence award from the ‘Wazir’ of Goodwood. Crafted from wood, aluminum, and carbon fiber, the car reflects Rolls-Royce’s classic design staples and timeless approach to luxury craftsmanship.
Since 2013, both cars have officially retired from racing, and now, Rolls-Royce Apprentices have led a full-body restoration for both cars, including a grille repair for the RR-0.01, and a front-screen veneer replacement for the RR-0.02. With over two decades since their introduction and important role in Rolls-Royce’s relaunch, the next generation of Rolls-Royce artisans are celebrating the legacy of these soapbox racers in a special way.
Image Source: Rolls-Royce