Rolls-Royce is actively working on creating a completely new, second generation of its luxury SUV, the Cullinan. The new model is expected to receive significant updates in both design and technical aspects, and its full presentation could take place within the next twelve months.
Expected Design Changes
A new chapter is beginning for one of the world’s most luxurious SUVs. The British manufacturer is preparing major changes for the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. The first spy shots of the new model, taken during cold-weather testing in Scandinavia, allowed key design elements to be discerned despite the camouflage wrap.
Inspired by these photos, digital artist Kelosonik created a series of renderings that provide an idea of the possible appearance of the new-generation Cullinan. Compared to the current model, whose design is sometimes criticized for its unusual headlight arrangement, the updated car demonstrates cleaner and more thoughtful lines.
The most noticeable change at the front will be the lighting. Like many modern cars, the Cullinan is expected to receive a split headlight design: a thin LED strip in place of the current headlights and separate square units positioned slightly lower.
This change will give the new Rolls a more contemporary look. The signature vertical radiator grille will, of course, remain but may undergo certain refinements. From the side, the overall shape remains recognizable, with the Cullinan’s characteristic rear-hinged rear doors.
Spy shots also revealed updated rear lights, each featuring two vertical LEDs, as reflected in the renderings.
Transition to Electric Drive
The changes will not only affect the design. The next Cullinan may share a platform with the fully electric Spectre coupe, built on Rolls-Royce’s so-called “Architecture of Luxury.” If this becomes a reality, it will mark the Cullinan’s transition to a fully electric powertrain.
The Spectre uses a 102 kWh battery, but for the larger and heavier SUV, Rolls-Royce may opt for a larger or more advanced battery. The source is likely to be a higher-energy-density battery from parent company BMW.
According to reports, the new model may receive battery and motor technologies from BMW’s future generation under the codename “Gent,” the same advanced system intended for Neue Klasse electric cars like the new iX3.
This upgrade will depend on whether the new hardware can be adapted to the “Architecture of Luxury,” which was not originally designed for it. Rolls-Royce has not yet confirmed exact timelines or technical details, but the premiere could happen quite soon.
The development of the new Cullinan is taking place within the framework of Rolls-Royce’s overall strategy to electrify the entire model range. Transitioning to a platform shared with the Spectre will not only simplify production but also solidify the brand’s status as a leading manufacturer of luxury electric vehicles. The success of this model will be critically important, as it is one of the brand’s best-selling cars, and its evolution into the electric era will set the tone for the entire lineup in the future. Preserving unshakable design canons, such as the majestic radiator grille and imposing road presence, combined with cutting-edge technology, should ensure the new-generation Cullinan remains competitive in a rapidly changing market.