Rolls-Royce has unveiled an exclusive Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis Private Collection. Limited to just 25 examples, the release coincides with the annual solar eclipse which will be visible in parts of the Western Hemisphere on October 14th.

The Ghost Ékleipsis uses the latest technology and aesthetic design to create a unique Rolls-Royce that is not just a car, but an experience. The bespoke black - or Lyrical Copper - exterior follows the eclipse design brief by incorporating powdered copper pigment which makes the car appear darker until it catches the light. Hints of Mandarin, which are seen on the Pantheon Grille and brake callipers, reference the sunlight seen as an eclipse progresses.

The feature central to the design of the Ghost Ékleipsis, however, is the Starlight Headliner which Rolls says “gives those inside a true sense of awe and wonder.” A seven and a half minute animation sequence begins once the doors are closed and the engine is started, replicating the spectacle of a solar eclipse. A starry night sky is visible before and after the sequence has elapsed, part of a painstaking development that took three complete prototypes to perfect.

After the animation is completed, a sky full of 1,846 glimmering stars is restored, with over 100 hours taken during the production process on adjusting the size and position of each one. Equally as glimmering is the 0.5-carat diamond timepiece - the first time a gemstone has been used in a Rolls-Royce clock - which is a nod to the ‘Diamond Ring’ effect during an eclipse.

Also seen inside the Ékleipsis is the illusionary Panoramic Sunset interior, achieved through over 200,000 individual perforations on the vehicle’s bi-coloured Mandarin leather seats. Bespoke finishing touches include illuminated treadplates, umbrellas with Mandarin piping concealed in the coach doors, and a unique indoor motor car cover bearing the Private Collection’s wordmark.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said: “With Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis, we draw inspiration from a total solar eclipse: a seldom-seen and spellbinding phenomenon that reflects the rarity and beauty of Rolls-Royce Private Collections. In capturing the magic of this celestial alignment, our Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and craftspeople have once again elevated contemporary craftsmanship, with a landmark series of exquisite details that project the marque’s culture of ambition and excellence.” 

If you’re wondering how to buy a Ghost Ékleipsis, unfortunately, all 25 examples have already been sold.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars