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).
Proposal outlining the logistics, costs, and performance goals for a 24-hour endurance record attempt.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 160\3\ scan0102 | |
| Date | 28th February 1935 | |
| personnel during the record attempt, and is fitted with special windows so as to act as an observation hut in order that independent records can be made of the performance of the car. It is complete with stove for heating and cooking etc. With reference to expenses, in order to make matters simple I would, subject to nothing unforeseen cropping up as the result of a preliminary visit to Paris, (but without disclosing that I intend to do anything), be prepared to hire track, lighting, timekeepers, provide meals and sleeping accommodation on the track for drivers and crew, for £250, which includes trials and the 24 hours attempt. For this I would also provide the services of a relief driver, Albert Denly. I thought perhaps you would like to have a hard and fast figure, as then you will know exactly where you are, and I might say it is a very modest one, but I should like to help in every way possible. I am reckoning on the car being available in Paris with two of your mechanics and any temporary help from the Service Station in France, and the use of a Service Car from the Paris Depot. With regard to insurance, it would be prudent to take out a third party risk for practise and record attempt, and cover for Denly. I take it you would risk the car, and I will risk myself The above insurance can be arranged by me as I get low rates, and I should think it would not be more than about £30 all. We are then clear of liability. I would do the whole of the organisation with regard to tyres, fuel, oil, re-fuelling station, and any local help required at the Track, and with reference to the whole of the above I anticipate that this will be free of cost to you, if I am permitted to go forward with the arrangements. The aim and object of the 'Performance' is to average over 100 miles an hour for 24 hours, and I should estimate that the car would not be called upon to lap the track at speeds over 108 m.p.h., provided no trouble is experienced, and the pit stops are at a minimum of 3 hours. But the car should have a maximum lap speed of 115 m.p.h. and be able to maintain this for one hour if necessary without over-heating or distress. Continued........ | ||