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Cullinan: The Jewel in the Crown of South Africa's Diamond Industry



Cullinan: The Name of Luxury, History, and Performance




If you are looking for a car that combines elegance, power, and versatility, look no further than Cullinan. Cullinan is the first SUV from Rolls-Royce, the legendary British automaker that has been producing some of the most exquisite and refined vehicles in the world for over a century. Cullinan is not just any SUV, it is an all-terrain, all-season, all-purpose machine that can take you anywhere you want to go, in style and comfort. In this article, we will explore what makes Cullinan so special, how it redefines luxury, how it makes history, and how it delivers performance.




cullinan




What is Cullinan?




Cullinan is a full-size luxury SUV that was launched by Rolls-Royce in 2018. It is based on the same platform as the Phantom VIII, the flagship sedan of the brand. Cullinan is named after the largest gem-quality diamond ever found, which was also cut into several pieces that adorn the British Crown Jewels. Cullinan is designed to appeal to a new generation of customers who seek adventure and exploration, without compromising on quality and sophistication.


The origin of the name




The name Cullinan comes from the famous diamond that was discovered in South Africa in 1905. The diamond weighed 3,106 carats (621.2 grams) and was the size of a fist. It was named after Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the mine where it was found. The diamond was so valuable that it was sent to London under heavy security, and was presented to King Edward VII as a gift from the Transvaal Colony government. The king then entrusted the diamond to Joseph Asscher & Co., a renowned Dutch firm of diamond cutters, who split it into nine major stones and 96 smaller ones. The largest stone, Cullinan I or the Great Star of Africa, weighs 530.4 carats (106.08 grams) and is mounted on the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. The second-largest stone, Cullinan II or the Second Star of Africa, weighs 317.4 carats (63.48 grams) and is mounted on the Imperial State Crown. Both are part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom.


The features of the car




Cullinan is a masterpiece of engineering and craftsmanship, with a host of features that make it stand out from other SUVs. Some of these features are:


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  • A twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V12 engine that produces 563 horsepower (592 in the Black Badge model) and 627 pound-feet of torque.



  • An eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive shifts.



  • A four-wheel drive system that adapts to different terrains and conditions.



  • A self-leveling air suspension that adjusts the ride height and damping according to the road surface and driving mode.



  • A four-wheel steering system that enhances maneuverability and stability.



  • A panoramic glass roof that can be opened or closed with a touch of a button.



  • A rear tailgate that can be lowered to form a bench seat or a loading platform.



  • A bespoke luggage compartment that can be customized with various accessories and configurations.



  • A spacious and luxurious cabin that can accommodate four or five passengers, depending on the seating option chosen.



  • A handcrafted interior that uses the finest materials such as leather, wood, metal, and crystal.



A state-of-the-art infotainment system that features a 10.25-inch touchscreen display The variants of the model




Cullinan is available in two variants: the standard Cullinan and the Cullinan Black Badge. The standard Cullinan is the epitome of elegance and refinement, with a classic Rolls-Royce grille, a Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, and a choice of 44 exterior colors. The Cullinan Black Badge is the more dynamic and edgy version, with a darkened grille, a black Spirit of Ecstasy, and a choice of 21 exterior colors. The Black Badge also has more power, more torque, and more agility than the standard Cullinan, thanks to some tweaks in the engine, transmission, suspension, and steering. Both variants can be further personalized with various options and packages, such as the Viewing Suite, the Recreation Module, the Illuminated Treadplates, and the Bespoke Audio System.


How Cullinan redefines luxury?




Cullinan is not just a car, it is a statement of style and sophistication. It redefines luxury by offering an unparalleled level of comfort, convenience, technology, and innovation to its occupants. Here are some of the ways that Cullinan does that:


The design and craftsmanship




Cullinan is designed to be both beautiful and functional, with a sleek and imposing silhouette, a high and commanding stance, and a spacious and versatile interior. Every detail of Cullinan is carefully crafted by skilled artisans who use traditional techniques and modern tools to create a flawless finish. From the hand-stitched leather seats to the hand-polished metal accents, from the hand-carved wood veneers to the hand-cut crystal elements, every aspect of Cullinan reflects the exquisite taste and quality of Rolls-Royce.


The comfort and convenience




Cullinan is designed to provide the ultimate comfort and convenience to its passengers, whether they are driving or being driven. The cabin is insulated from noise and vibration, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The seats are adjustable in multiple ways, including heating, cooling, massaging, and reclining functions. The climate control system can be customized for each zone of the cabin, ensuring optimal temperature and air quality. The lighting system can be adjusted to create different moods and ambiances. The storage spaces are plentiful and cleverly designed, such as the center console that can hold champagne bottles and glasses, or the rear console that can hold whiskey decanters and tumblers. The technology and innovation




Cullinan is equipped with a range of technology and innovation that enhance the safety, entertainment, and convenience of the car. Some of these features are:


  • A head-up display that projects key information on the windshield, such as speed, navigation, and alerts.



  • A night vision system that detects pedestrians and animals in the dark and warns the driver.



  • A surround-view camera system that provides a 360-degree view of the car and its surroundings.



  • A lane departure warning system that alerts the driver if the car drifts out of its lane.



  • An adaptive cruise control system that maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and adjusts the speed according to the traffic flow.



  • A rear entertainment system that features two 12-inch touchscreen monitors, a DVD player, a HDMI port, and wireless headphones.



  • A wireless charging pad that can charge compatible devices without cables.



  • A WiFi hotspot that can connect up to 10 devices to the internet.



How Cullinan makes history?




Cullinan is not only named after a historic diamond, but it also makes history by being the first SUV from Rolls-Royce, the most prestigious and iconic car brand in the world. Cullinan is also inspired by the legacy and heritage of Rolls-Royce, which has been producing cars for royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries since 1904. Here are some of the ways that Cullinan makes history:


The discovery of the diamond




The Cullinan diamond was discovered on January 26, 1905, at the Premier Mine in Cullinan, South Africa. It was found by Frederick Wells, the mine manager, who spotted a shiny object on the wall of the mine pit. He initially thought it was a piece of glass, but soon realized it was a diamond of extraordinary size and quality. He took it to his office and weighed it on a scale, which showed 3,106 carats (621.2 grams). He then contacted Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the mine, who confirmed the authenticity of the diamond and named it after himself. The diamond was so valuable that it was insured for $1 million (equivalent to $30 million today) and was guarded by armed men at all times.


The cutting and polishing of the gem




The Cullinan diamond was so large and precious that it posed a great challenge for the diamond cutters who were tasked with splitting it into smaller stones. The king chose Joseph Asscher & Co., a renowned Dutch firm of diamond cutters, who had experience with cutting large diamonds. The firm spent months studying and planning how to cut the diamond, using models and diagrams. They also built a special cleaving machine that could apply enough force to break the diamond along its natural flaws. On February 10, 1908, Joseph Asscher himself performed the first cut on the diamond, using a steel blade and a mallet. He struck the blade with such force that it broke in half, but the diamond remained intact. He tried again with another blade, and this time he succeeded in cleaving the diamond into two pieces. He then fainted from the stress and relief. The two pieces were then further cut and polished into nine major stones and 96 smaller ones. The fate of the stones




The nine major stones and 96 smaller ones that were cut from the Cullinan diamond have different fates and destinations. The largest stone, Cullinan I or the Great Star of Africa, and the second-largest stone, Cullinan II or the Second Star of Africa, are part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, and are displayed at the Tower of London. The third-largest stone, Cullinan III or the Lesser Star of Africa, and the fourth-largest stone, Cullinan IV or the Lesser Lesser Star of Africa, are part of a brooch that Queen Mary wore at her coronation, and are now in the possession of Queen Elizabeth II. The fifth-largest stone, Cullinan V, is part of a brooch that Queen Mary wore at her daughter's wedding, and is also owned by Queen Elizabeth II. The sixth-largest stone, Cullinan VI, is part of a pendant that Queen Mary wore on a necklace, and is also owned by Queen Elizabeth II. The seventh-largest stone, Cullinan VII, is part of a pendant that Queen Mary gave to her granddaughter Princess Margaret, and is now in the possession of her son David Linley. The eighth-largest stone, Cullinan VIII, is part of a ring that Queen Mary gave to her granddaughter Princess Elizabeth, and is now owned by Queen Elizabeth II. The ninth-largest stone, Cullinan IX, is part of a ring that Queen Mary wore on her little finger, and is also owned by Queen Elizabeth II. The smaller stones are scattered among various private owners and collectors around the world.


How Cullinan delivers performance?




Cullinan is not only a luxurious and historic car, but it is also a powerful and versatile car that can handle any road and any weather. It delivers performance by offering an impressive engine, a smooth transmission, a responsive suspension, and a capable off-road system. Here are some of the ways that Cullinan delivers performance:


The engine and transmission




Cullinan is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V12 engine that produces 563 horsepower (592 in the Black Badge model) and 627 pound-feet of torque. This engine can propel the car from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds (4.9 in the Black Badge model) and reach a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The transmission also features a satellite-aided function that uses GPS data to select the optimal gear for the upcoming road conditions.


The suspension and handling




Cullinan features a self-leveling air suspension that adjusts the ride height and damping according to the road surface and driving mode. The suspension can raise or lower the car by up to 40 mm (1.6 inches), depending on the clearance needed. The suspension also features an anti-roll system that reduces body roll and improves stability. The suspension works together with a four-wheel steering system that enhances maneuverability and agility. The four-wheel steering system can turn the rear wheels in the same or opposite direction as the front wheels, depending on the speed and steering angle. The off-road and all-season capability




Cullinan features a four-wheel drive system that adapts to different terrains and conditions. The system can distribute the torque between the front and rear axles, depending on the traction needed. The system also features an off-road button that activates a special mode that optimizes the engine, transmission, suspension, and steering for rough and uneven surfaces. The system also features a hill descent control function that maintains a steady speed and braking when going downhill. Cullinan can handle snow, mud, sand, gravel, rocks, and water with ease. It can also ford water up to 54 cm (21 inches) deep, thanks to its high ground clearance and wading sensors.


Conclusion




Cullinan is a car that has it all: luxury, history, and performance. It is a car that combines the best of Rolls-Royce with the best of SUVs. It is a car that can take you anywhere you want to go, in style and comfort. It is a car that is worthy of its name, which is derived from the most famous and valuable diamond in the world. Cullinan is a car that is truly a gem among cars.


FAQs




How much does Cullinan cost?




The base price of Cullinan is $325,000, but it can vary depending on the options and customization chosen. The Black Badge model costs $382,000.


How many Cullinans are produced per year?




Rolls-Royce does not disclose the exact number of Cullinans produced per year, but it has been reported that the demand for the car has exceeded the supply, and that there is a waiting list of several months for new orders.


How fuel-efficient is Cullinan?




Cullinan is not very fuel-efficient, as expected from a large and powerful SUV. It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 12 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.


How safe is Cullinan?




Cullinan has not been tested by any official safety agency, but it is equipped with various safety features such as airbags, seat belts, anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, night vision, surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, and collision warning.


How reliable is Cullinan?




Cullinan is expected to be very reliable, as Rolls-Royce has a reputation for building cars that last for decades. However, if any problem occurs, Cullinan comes with a four-year unlimited-mileage warranty and free maintenance. 44f88ac181


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