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).
Potential chassis design improvements for tool storage, front-end appearance, and lighting.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 4\1\ 01-page162 | |
| Date | 14th November 1934 | |
| -2- Cx{Major Len W. Cox - Advertising Manager}9/KF.14.11.34. (4) Scheme for tools. This point might possibly be considered in conjunction with a dashboard of such a shape that the bonnet does not overhang the end of it. In other words, that the dashboard firstly rises vertically from the chassis frame until well clear of pedals, etc. and then slopes backward at a suitable angle so as to coincide with the back end of the bonnet. This will, firstly avoid the kinks in the bonnet that we notice to-day, and secondly, might provide a useful place in which to locate certain of the chassis tools, as it seems that at present we are rather forced to consider reverting to tools under the bonnet in view of the difficulty of stowing these on some of the cars of present design of coachwork. I notice this scheme is employed on the Alvis, both as regards support for the back end of the bonnet and for housing tools. It seems to have a good deal to recommend it. (5) Front appearance of chassis. Personally I feel it would be a great mistake if we departed from our present very distinctive and refined front end appearance. I believe that our intention probably is to retain the present front appearance, although the Works are making some mock-up fronts for us to consider containing slight alternatives. If we can maintain our present appearance more or less, we shall be one of the few who have not fallen victims to the Americanisation of the fronts of cars and the complete loss of character in consequence. (6) Lights under the bonnet in appropriate positions would be welcome even in this chassis, and also probably an adjustable steering column, if the design permits of that being introduced. (Sgd.) Cx.{Major Len W. Cox - Advertising Manager} | ||