Is there a 'proper' way to drive a Rolls-Royce?

According to global driver trainer for Rolls-Royce, Andi McCann, the answer is 'yes'. The car expert gives four tips on how to handle one of the world's most luxurious (and expensive) cars, the new, eighth generation Phantom. Its starting price? Over $530,000, while the extended wheel base version is a staggering $600,000
Is there a 'proper' way to drive a Rolls-Royce?
The car expert gives four tips on how to handle one of the world's most luxurious (and expensive) cars, the new, eighth generation Phantom. Its starting price? Over $530,000, while the extended wheel base version is a staggering $600,000
By Lubna Hamdan
Sun 17 Dec 2017 05:54 PM

Relaxed sitting position
The weak link in any car is the driver. If they are sitting in the car in a very tense position, that tension will be transferred to a bumpy and anxious driving style, whether they are a chauffeur, regular driver or race driver, warns McCann. He recommends having an effortless flow that assists in controlling the car.

Effortless steering for effortless driving
While driving, McCann advises keeping hands on the steering wheel at a position that’s called  quarter to three, on either side of the steering wheel, as with the hands on the clock. Drivers should refrain from keeping their hands at the top or too far down the bottom of the steering wheel. This gives them the ability to effortlessly rotate the wheel and maintain in contact with the front of the car, especially on the corners.

Anticipation is key
The common mistake when driving any car is looking only at the car in front, and not looking far ahead. However, it is just as important to observe the changing picture in front, where it’s a person passing the road without a pedestrian crossing or a red light up ahead. Anticipation is the biggest skill a driver can have, McCann advises.

Size does not matter
Most drivers are concerned about Rolls-Royce’s large size, which there is no getting away from, but McCann claims its suspension system allows them to settle into the car quickly by making them feel connected to the road. As a result, the car ‘shrinks’ around the driver. It also has great visibility due to the elevated driving position, from which its signature Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet can be seen.

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