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).
Letter questioning the necessity of a third 'India 3' experimental car chassis, citing a lack of revolutionary changes that would require extensive testing.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 5\2\ 02-page178 | |
| Date | 9th August 1928 | |
| COPY. Da{Bernard Day - Chassis Design}/Sv. WW. I confirm telegram sent you this morning reading as follows :- "Please phone me about two thirty". In clearing up papers prior to going away for my holiday, I have come up against the question of bodies for India 3. and in this connection I would refer you to Ev{Ivan Evernden - coachwork}1/12.6.28. Ev{Ivan Evernden - coachwork}2/18.6.28. and M1/Mis.6.28. The question of bodies for two chassis have been covered by the one for R.{Sir Henry Royce} and the one ordered from Hooper's, but nothing has been done about the third one. I am wondering whether it has been definitely laid down and decided that there must be three India 3. Experimental cars and whether it is absolutely necessary. The more of these bodies for special chassis we have to get built, the greater the difficulty in keeping matters secret in regard to alterations. If there does not appear - so far as you can see - any definite need for three, I will raise the question with Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} as to whether, from his point of view, they must have three. If they agree that two is sufficient, the position of bodies is covered, but if not, I suppose we have got to order whatever we think best for the third chassis. One of the main reasons which I raise the question of necessity for three is because in India 3. we have nothing very revolutionary which necessitates a tremendous amount of testing. I should be glad if you would telephone me tomorrow before 11.30. if possible, as I shall be at a O.S.C. Meeting after 11.30. but can talk on the 'phone if you cannot get through before - and let me know your views so that I can, if possible, deal with the matter before going away. Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} | ||