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).
Advantages of a lowered geared axle for future models, particularly for export.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 49\1\ Scan231 | |
| Date | 27th October 1920 | |
| To R.{Sir Henry Royce} from BJ. X.4299 c. to Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} BJ17/DB{Donald Bastow - Suspensions}27.10.20. X.4299. X.2565 At a Staff Conference held at the Works about a month ago it was mentioned that we were considering the use of a lowered geared axle on some of our future models, and the possibility of bringing in this low gear at an early date for use on chassis for abroad. With the exception of France, there is no doubt it is a great advantage to have a low gear, as it is practically never possible to accelerate the car to 50 miles per hour, but it is of great value to swoop up a hill absolutely without changing gear, and this impresses Motorists infinitely more than being told that the car is capable of going 70 miles per hour, as they can seldom go at more than 35/40 miles per hour on accound of their bad winding roads. I know you wish to be kept au fait, and it is for this reason I am forwarding the above. BJ. PS. You will remember that this matter was discussed at the last Staff Conference, and it was hoped that W. would be able to arrange something with Mr. Royce which would enable us to adopt a lower geared axle. I hope that W. will have something satisfactory to report on this matter at the next Staff Conference. BJ. | ||