The race to create the perfect SUV is no secret, given that the lion’s share of the market falls in this category. Porsche has bolstered the new Cayenne lineup so extensively, even though an all-new electrified SUV will debut in 2026. Even in the more mainstream classification, BYD’s localised strategy includes an ATTO 3 engineered to target those looking for more “bargain basement” deals.

If we go to extreme lengths in search for SUVs operating the superluxury sphere, Rolls-Royce comes to mind with the Cullinan. Bespoke Cullinans already exist since the model's inception in 2018, but its latest creation seems to stretch limits way beyond wildest dreams. Dreams do become reality for those who can afford it - all 62 examples have been spoken for. Here are five facts we need to know about the Rolls-Royce Cullinan “Blue Shadow”:

Inspired by spacecrafts

The finish of the thermal tiles used to shield homebound Space Shuttles from the intense heat of atmospheric re-entry are recalled in the satin-tinted grille surround and aero bumper insert sets. And the Spirit of Ecstasy is created using 3D printing techniques, finished with a layer of blue-tinted lacquer revealing the titanium’s grained texture.

Badged like no other

The Black Badge infinity logo and ‘Blue Shadow’ Private Collection name are engraved on the Spirit of Ecstasy base and infilled with Charles Blue. Completing the exterior aesthetic, Blue Shadow’s wheels are darkened using a translucent lacquer.

Hello, halo

The Kármán line is a mysterious invisible boundary 62 miles above the Earth’s surface, where outer space begins. This transition from blue sky to the inky darkness of space is captured on Blue Shadow's unique painted fascia and door panels. These were created using six layers of paint, combining five different shades of blue with a deep black hue.

Stars for days

The Starlight Headliner contains a total of 1,183 ‘stars’ (799 white and 384 blue). Each star is individually placed in the leather canvas through perforated holes, chalked and punched by hand. These fibre-optic ‘stars’ have a “twinkle” effect, too.

Earth, on your seats

In a first for Rolls-Royce, the front and rear seats feature a unique perforated artwork, inspired by the view of Earth from space. Formed from a multitude of tiny perforations in the leather, the pattern conjures up the impression of organic, ever-shifting clouds swirling over the continents and oceans.

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