Rolls-Royce has just unveiled what could be the world's most expensive new car, the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail.
While Rolls-Royce has not specifically stated the vehicle's actual price, the Boat Tail is rumored to have a price tag of around $28 million.
The Boat Tail's design was inspired by the company's Swept Tail custom limousine, which sold for around $13 million. Based on the Boat Tail's rumored price, the vehicle could dethrone the Bugatti La Voiture Noire, which has a reported price tag of $18.7 million after taxes.
The bespoke luxury vehicle, which has been described as a yacht on wheels, is named after its tapered rear end. The design dates back to the 1920s with cars like the Auburn 851 Speedster and the Bentley Speed Six Boat-Tail.
The vehicle measures nearly 6 meters (19 feet) in length and is based on an aluminum space frame platform shared by the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Cullinan. Powering the huge cabriolet is a 6.75-liter V-12 engine that is also found on other current Rolls-Royce models.
Rolls-Royce designed the rear of the vehicle to store a variety of high-end luxury goodies that can be used during fancy tailgates. The rear contains dual champagne coolers that fit the vehicle owner's favorite Armand de Brignac vintage. A set of crockery by Christofle of Paris, which includes matching salt and pepper grinders, is also included.
One of the most unique bespoke features on the vehicle is a parasol that slots into the rear to provide extra shade. The parasol is made of stainless steel and high tensile fabric that spreads over carbon fiber stays. Rolls-Royce said it had tested the parasol in wind tunnels to ensure its rigidity even in strong winds.
Rolls-Royce said it has built three different Boat Tail versions that each has its own unique features based on its customer's requests. The vehicle that was being showcased by the company to the public was reportedly commissioned by a mystery man and his wife living in the U.S., believed to be working in the music industry.
