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).
Tests on front number plate visibility at various positions and distances, concluding with a legal compliance issue.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 148\4\ scan0228 | |
| Date | 15th October 1929 | |
| X4152 TO EV.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} from Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/AJL. c. to Ry. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/AJL.1/MJ.288/29. FRONT NUMBERPLATE. S.S. X4152. With reference to EV{Ivan Evernden - coachwork}8/23.8.29 and N.Sch.2933, the following are the distances from the front number plate at which the numbers can be clearly seen, (a) Number plate in standard position, visible at 50'10". Any nearer, plate partially obscured. (b) Number plate dropped 2.250" (N.Sch.2933), visible at 16'4". (c) Number plate lowered 2.750" (bottom of plate level with bottom of axle on max. bump), visible at 15'4'. (d) Standing 10ft. in front of the number plate, it becomes visible if lowered 4". (These figures apply for a man of average height, eyes 5ft.5ins. from the ground.) Dropping the number plate only improves the position when viewed from directly in front. The plate cannot be seen clearly by an observer standing anywhere but directly in front of the car, no matter what position it is fixed as regards height. It is hidden by the dumbiron, front spring and the mudwing. We attach a copy of the regulations relating to this, which definately shows that we are not legal unless we fix the number plate to the front cross-member, (underneath for appearance sake, and level with the vertical diameter of the cross-member to allow the starting handle to be used). We agree that dropping the number plate the | ||