From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Development, lightening, and aerodynamic testing of Bentley car bodies with coachbuilders.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 84\1\ scan0156 | |
| Date | 16th June 1933 | |
| X2 TO WOR.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} FROM EV.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} EV{Ivan Evernden - coachwork}3/16.6.33. COPY TO C.C.W. H.s. RE COACHWORK. BENTLEY. We thank you for your WONG/T13.6.33. The Bentley wheelarch sample we have reason to believe was sent to you by rail on April 27th. last. Messrs Park Ward & Co. tell us that they have the railway company's signature for it, and they also say that their man Dixon who has been working on the mounting of the Bentley bodies has seen it in the Experimental Garage on a shelf. We would be glad to hear if you have been able to trace it. In connection with the lightening of bodies we have made several moves, but all in connection with the Standardised Sports Saloon by Park Ward & Co. The other eight odd coachbuilders are preparing their designs which we have to go and see. On Monday next Messrs Park Ward & Co. are sending to Derby a lightened step, together with a set of Panhard Type front wings which come well over the wheel and so hide the axle and we believe should greatly reduce the wind resistance. They are also building up a sample rear well for the floor in as light a form as possible which will be sent to you so that the Works can consider its manufacture on a production basis. We have arranged for the rear wheel (spare) to be outside of the panel, but the saving in weight here will be somewhat nullified by the use of an outside door for access to the luggage which has been incorporated at Sales request. We believe that Sales are prepared to agree to have no cover to the spare wheel, which would be a further saving in weight. As a result of the Brooklands Conference we realise the importance of going ahead with the Wind Tunnel Tests on Models of the Bentley Bodies with a view to producing a car before its announcement date which will have an enhanced performance. These tests commence on Monday next, June 19th. As soon as these tests are complete the writer intends to come to Derby to discuss further the matters which you mention, and at the same time to see the improved radiator shell which is in the making. The design of the Test Bodies for Bentley will be complete in a day or so when Messrs Park Ward & Co. will be asked to go ahead, prints being sent to Derby for their comments which can be incorporated in the design. We are working at a scheme for bringing the front wings over inside the frame, so abolishing the lamp standards as now used. This, we believe would clean up the front of the car and add dignity. EV.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} | ||