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 for a replacement Wraith model, detailing modifications, costs, and profitability concerns.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 148\5\ scan0338 | |
| Date | 27th May 1938 | |
| Secret 1260. Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} from Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} c. By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}2/R.27.5.38. REPLACEMENT WRAITH. It now seems to have been established that it will be exceedingly difficult to make a profit on the Wraith. It seems to us to be most unfortunate that we should have to lose money over an extended period of time on a chassis for which we charge £1100, and at the same time be endeavouring to make a profit on B.50 chassis which must not list at more than £700. We should, therefore, like to get agreement that we can experimentally put in hand a replacement Wraith forth-with. The differences between the suggested replacement Wraith and the B.50 will be as follows:- Radiator & Bonnet (R.R.) Frame (3" longer, existing tools used) Propeller Shaft & Brake Ropes (3" longer). Tyres - 6 x 7.50. Rear spring seat axle forgings modified to increase track. The cost of building this car is likely to be - Special Frame ............ £60 " Wheels (Pressed Steel) £50 Radiator & Bonnet .......... £50 Body & Mounting ............£700 Cost of Assembling chassis £ 75 ----- £935 | ||