Rolls-Royce is synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, but even the standard models are needed for some of its most discerning clients. That's why the British brand has revived the ancient art of coachbuilding, which allows customers to commission bespoke vehicles that are tailor-made to their personal preferences and tastes. The latest masterpiece of this craft is the 2024 Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail, a stunning two-seat roadster that is inspired by a rare and exquisite rose variety.
The 2024 Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is the first of four Droptail commissions that Rolls-Royce will produce, each with its own unique theme and design. The name Droptail refers to the distinctive rear end of the car, which features a tapered tail that evokes the high-speed sailing yachts of the 1930s. The Droptail also has a retractable tonneau cover that can be deployed to protect the leather interior from the elements or removed to reveal the elegant cockpit.
The Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail was commissioned by a couple who share a passion for roses, especially the Black Baccara variety, which has a deep red color with black undertones. The Black Baccara rose was bred by French rose hybridizer Jacques Mouchotte before 2000 and introduced by Meilland International in France and Star Roses and Plants/Conard-Pyle in America. The luxury car's exterior reflects this inspiration with a two-tone paint scheme that combines Black Diamond metallic with a custom red hue called Baccara Red. The red color also accents the grille, wheels, and brake calipers, while the brightwork has a dark finish called Black Chrome.
The interior of the La Rose Noire Droptail is equally stunning, with a black and red theme that matches the exterior. The seats, dashboard, and door panels are upholstered in black leather, while the center console and steering wheel are wrapped in red leather. The most striking feature of the cabin is the wood trim, which consists of 1,603 pieces of black sycamore veneer that are arranged to create a pattern resembling rose petals scattered by the wind. The wood trim also incorporates intricate marquetry depicting a Black Baccara rose on the passenger side.