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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).
Accommodating Commander Kidson's specific car modifications for comfort, stability, and appearance.

Identifier  ExFiles\Box 65a\3\  scan0251
Date  31th July 1930
  
-5- Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rn.{Mr Robinson}3/AJ.31.7.30.Contd.

the back for rear passengers' comfort, we have established that for speed work the best steering is obtained by fitting them at the side, and the directional stability of this car is of vital importance. In any case in the body he is having the rear passengers sit well forward of the back axle and will have a large luggage box and 28 gallons of petrol to stabilise them. We have not told Commander Kidson this but have informed him that we will consider the matter. We think that it is the only reasonable way of giving him what he wants, otherwise he would have to have a special fuel tank, petrol gauge, etc., which is hardly feasible.

On the whole Commander Kidson appreciated that he is going to get comfort and refinement in place of the last ounce of performance. We recommend that we should do all we can to accomodate him in the matter of appearance, i.e. radiator and bonnet, as otherwise he will probably get the car altered by some outside people after he has taken delivery - with unsatisfactory results to everyone concerned.

Unfortunately Commander Kidson appears to be so wealthy that the additional cost of non standard parts is no deterrent.


Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Rn.{Mr Robinson}
  
  


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