Earlier this year, Rolls Royce confirmed the name and the production of a super luxurious SUV. The Rolls Royce Cullinan will use the new 7 Series platform and has been described by Rolls Royce as a “high-sided all-terrain vehicle”.

First test mules have just hit the road and will assist Rolls Royce engineers in developing a final suspension system that will deliver the brand’s hallmark ‘magic carpet’ ride not only on the road, but off-road, too.

“The first series of tests will focus on Project Cullinan’s on-road behavior from suspension throw to high-bodied stability, using the first iteration of the newly designed suspension system,” a source said. “The result will be “effortless…everywhere” – a strong hint as to the marketing line for the new vehicle.”

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The new G01/G02 7 Series platform is developed on the CLAR Cluster Architecture which is at the core of all future rear-wheel drive/xDrive BMWs.

With a rumored price around $400,000, the Rolls Royce SUV will try to lure new customers to the brand.

The British automaker aims for a market launch in 2018 and likely a concept unveil in 2016. Lamborghini Urus, Aston Martin DBX, and Maserati Levante are also slated for production in 2017, 2018, and beyond.

The Cullinan name makes reference to the largest gem-quality diamond ever found, but the final name has yet to be decided on.