Rolls-Royce has unveiled Project Nightingale, the first creation from its new Coachbuild Collection, setting a fresh direction for the marque’s most exclusive commissions.

Conceived as an open-top two-seater, it draws inspiration from the experimental ‘EX’ models of the late 1920s, such as the 16EX and 17EX prototypes, while reinterpreting their spirit through a thoroughly modern lens. Project Nightingale adopts a dramatic, streamlined form shaped by what Rolls-Royce describes as a “sheer, monolithic” aesthetic. At 5.76 metres in length, it shares the scale of the Phantom, yet its proportions are entirely different, starting with a long, dominant bonnet that flows into a compact, deeply set cabin before tapering into a low, elegant rear. A continuous ‘central fuselage’ line runs the length of the car, reinforcing the sense that it has been carved from a single piece of metal, while slender vertical headlamps and polished steel detailing add a contemporary edge.

Beneath this sculptural exterior sits a fully electric powertrain. While there is no need for traditional cooling apertures, the almost one-metre-wide Pantheon Grille remains, appearing to be carved from a solid block of stainless steel and featuring 24 vanes. Not to be missed is the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine integrated at the top of the grille. The 24-inch wheels, the largest ever fitted to a Rolls-Royce, feature a directional design and are finished in black.

The cabin is built around the Starlight Breeze suite, an intricate display of 10,500 illuminated points inspired by the soundwaves of a nightingale’s song. This light pattern wraps around the occupants, creating a calm, immersive environment. Materials and colours are equally bespoke, including finishes developed exclusively for the collection.

Limited to just 100 examples worldwide and offered strictly by invitation, each Project Nightingale will be hand-built and individually tailored, with deliveries beginning in 2028.