Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Nightingale, a £3.5 million electric cabriolet, marking its first open-top EV and the start of a new Coachbuild Collection. Only 100 units will be produced, each hand-built and customizable for select clients.
The 5.76-meter-long, two-seater vehicle features 24-inch wheels—the largest ever on a Rolls-Royce—and draws inspiration from 1920s and '30s luxury touring cars. Its electric powertrain ensures near-silent operation, allowing passengers to hear birdsong even with the roof down.
A Return to Coachbuilding
Rolls-Royce’s Coachbuild Collection revives the tradition of bespoke vehicle design, where clients collaborate closely with the manufacturer. The Nightingale project involved a multi-year design process, with clients participating in exclusive events and having unprecedented input into their vehicle’s specifications.
Market and Production Details
The Nightingale rides on the same architecture as other Rolls-Royce models but is unique in its two-seater cabriolet configuration. Rolls-Royce has expanded its Goodwood, England, production site to accommodate the project. The total value of the 100-car run is estimated at £350 million.
Industry Context
While modern automotive trends favor cost-cutting and standardization, Rolls-Royce’s Coachbuild initiative emphasizes exclusivity and craftsmanship. The brand, owned by BMW since 2003, has previously offered limited-edition models but has never produced an electric convertible before.
Client Experience
Rolls-Royce CEO Chris Brownridge emphasized the importance of the client experience, stating that participation in the Coachbuild Collection is a rare opportunity. The company describes the process as deeply personal, aligning with its brand ethos of bespoke luxury.
Technical and Design Features
The Nightingale’s design includes a torpedo-shaped profile and yacht-like features, blending elegance with performance. Its electric powertrain ensures a quiet, refined driving experience, even at high speeds with the roof down.
Future Implications
The Nightingale signals Rolls-Royce’s commitment to electric vehicles while maintaining its heritage of exclusivity. The Coachbuild Collection is expected to attract high-net-worth individuals seeking unique, personalized luxury automobiles.