100 Rolls-Royce Cars Parade Through London [w/ video]
Source:
Rolls-Royce | Published:
Tue Feb 08, 2011
One hundred Rolls-Royce
motor cars took to the streets of London on 6 February 2011 to celebrate a very
special anniversary. The date marked the centenary of the world's most famous
hood mascot, the Spirit of Ecstasy, which was first fitted to Rolls-Royce models
in 1911.
"The Spirit of Ecstasy is a genuine icon, a graceful goddess who
has adorned the prow of Rolls-Royce cars past and present," said Rolls-Royce
Motor Cars CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös. "She is recognised the world over as a
symbol for the pinnacle of automotive aspiration and is an inspiration to those
of us working for the company today. The centenary drive was a fitting tribute
to such an important figure for our company."
The drive started in
Belgravia and ended at the Great Conservatory at Syon House in West London, the
home of the Duke of Northumberland, making its way past famous London landmarks
such as Big Ben, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus.
The route also
passed locations of significance for the Rolls-Royce brand. This included the
birthplace of Charles Rolls in Hill Street, Mayfair, the site of the studio
where sculptor Charles Sykes is thought to have created his famous Spirit of
Ecstasy design on Brompton Road and Berkeley Square, the 21st century home of
Rolls-Royce in London.
Phantom and Ghost models produced at the company's
21st Century home in Goodwood headed the parade. More Goodwood models were
joined in the procession by a selection of classic and vintage cars, driven by
members of the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club, VIPs and media guests. Among their
number were examples of Silver Ghosts, Silver Clouds, Silver Shadows and Silver
Spurs.
100 Rolls-Royce Cars Parade Through London Photo Gallery