Rolls-Royce plans 'Year of the Dragon' special edition

Luxury British automaker Rolls Royce has announced that it is to produce an exclusive suite of modifications in celebration of the Chinese Year of the Dragon, which begins next January.

The legendary marque said that the new Year of the Dragon Collection had been created in "preparation for this festive celebration… Inspired by the legendary creature that is revered in China."

The collection features a set of particular details created by Rolls-Royce's bespoke team that can be installed on its handbuilt vehicles, the popular Phantom and luxury Phantom Extended Wheelbase.

Among the addition is a handpainted dragon coachline on the side of the model and several appearances inside the car, including embroidery on the headrest and on the passenger panel, where the motif will be applied in gold.

The model will also come with exclusive illuminated treadplates on the door seals, with "Year of the Dragon 2012" highlighted in LED lighting.

Underfoot, customers will be able to choose from a selection of modern or traditional marquetry, and relax on hand-stitched cushions included for the rear passengers.

Rolls-Royce says that its new product "captures the imagination," but no doubt it will be hoping also to capture more customers in China, now one of the company's most lucrative markets.

The company said last month that it had seen global sales grow by 64 percent in the first half of this year, with Asia Pacific (led by China) far outstripping the rest of the world - up by over 170 percent.

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