Who Makes Rolls-Royce Cars? The Ultimate Guide

Rolls-Royce cars are currently made by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the BMW Group. This has been the case since 2003, following a complex acquisition and restructuring process that separated the Rolls-Royce brand from Vickers plc and then from the Rolls-Royce aerospace division. The legacy of engineering excellence, however, remains firmly at the heart of every vehicle bearing the Spirit of Ecstasy.

The BMW Acquisition: A History of Luxury Redefined

The story of how BMW came to own Rolls-Royce is one filled with corporate intrigue and strategic maneuvering. In the late 1990s, Vickers plc, the then-owner of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, decided to sell the prestigious marque. BMW and Volkswagen both entered the bidding war.

Volkswagen emerged as the victor, acquiring Rolls-Royce Motor Cars for £479 million in 1998. However, this purchase did not grant them complete control of the Rolls-Royce brand name or the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament. These crucial assets were owned by Rolls-Royce plc, the aerospace division, who, critically, also had business dealings with BMW.

BMW leveraged its existing relationship with Rolls-Royce plc to secure the rights to the Rolls-Royce name and logo. Furthermore, BMW already supplied engines and other components to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

A complex agreement was reached whereby Volkswagen would own the Bentley brand (another jewel in the Vickers crown) and the Rolls-Royce factory in Crewe. BMW, after a transitional period, would take ownership of the Rolls-Royce brand and establish a new manufacturing facility. Thus, on January 1, 2003, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited, under BMW‘s ownership, began producing vehicles in a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in Goodwood, West Sussex, England.

The Goodwood Era: Handcrafted Excellence

The Rolls-Royce factory in Goodwood is more than just a production facility; it’s a center of craftsmanship where skilled artisans painstakingly handcraft each vehicle. The attention to detail is unparalleled, with options for bespoke customization allowing customers to create truly unique automobiles.

The modern Rolls-Royce lineup, produced in Goodwood, includes:

• Phantom: The flagship sedan, representing the pinnacle of luxury and refinement.
• Ghost: A more driver-focused sedan, offering a balance of performance and opulence.
• Wraith: A powerful and elegant grand tourer coupe.
• Dawn: A seductive and open-top convertible, perfect for enjoying the finer things in life.
• Cullinan: Rolls-Royce‘s entry into the SUV market, combining ultimate luxury with off-road capability.

These models are all underpinned by advanced technology and engineering, reflecting BMW‘s influence, while maintaining the handcrafted quality and timeless design that defines Rolls-Royce.

The Future of Rolls-Royce: Electrification and Innovation

Rolls-Royce is embracing the future of automotive technology, with a commitment to electrification. The brand has already introduced its first all-electric model, the Spectre, signaling a shift towards sustainable luxury. While retaining the core values of craftsmanship and bespoke personalization, Rolls-Royce is poised to lead the way in the electric luxury vehicle segment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who owns Rolls-Royce now?

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited is owned by the BMW Group. This has been the case since January 1, 2003.

2. Where are Rolls-Royce cars manufactured?

Rolls-Royce cars are manufactured in Goodwood, West Sussex, England. The state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to producing meticulously handcrafted vehicles.

3. Did Volkswagen ever own the Rolls-Royce brand?

Volkswagen acquired Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in 1998, but they did not acquire the rights to the Rolls-Royce name or the Spirit of Ecstasy. These rights were retained by Rolls-Royce plc and subsequently acquired by BMW.

4. What is the Spirit of Ecstasy?

The Spirit of Ecstasy is the iconic hood ornament that adorns every Rolls-Royce car. It represents the spirit of speed, grace, and beauty.

5. What is bespoke customization on a Rolls-Royce?

Bespoke customization allows customers to personalize their Rolls-Royce vehicles to an unparalleled degree. This includes selecting unique colors, materials, and features to create a truly one-of-a-kind automobile.

6. What models of Rolls-Royce are currently in production?

The current Rolls-Royce model lineup includes the Phantom, Ghost, Wraith, Dawn, Cullinan, and Spectre.

7. Is Rolls-Royce going electric?

Yes, Rolls-Royce is committed to electrification. They have already launched their first all-electric model, the Spectre, and plan to electrify their entire lineup in the future.

8. What is the price range of a Rolls-Royce?

Rolls-Royce cars are among the most expensive vehicles in the world. Prices vary significantly depending on the model and the level of bespoke customization, but they typically start in the hundreds of thousands of dollars and can easily exceed $500,000.

9. How many Rolls-Royce cars are made each year?

Rolls-Royce production is intentionally limited to maintain exclusivity. While the exact numbers fluctuate, they typically produce several thousand vehicles per year.

10. What is the relationship between Rolls-Royce and Bentley?

Rolls-Royce and Bentley were once part of the same company, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. However, after the acquisition by Volkswagen and BMW, the brands were separated. Volkswagen retained ownership of Bentley, while BMW acquired Rolls-Royce.

11. Where was Rolls-Royce previously manufactured before Goodwood?

Before moving to Goodwood, Rolls-Royce cars were manufactured in Crewe, England. This factory is now used by Bentley.

12. How long does it take to build a Rolls-Royce?

The time it takes to build a Rolls-Royce varies depending on the complexity of the bespoke features. However, even a standard model takes significantly longer to build than a mass-produced vehicle due to the extensive handcrafted processes involved. It can take several weeks, even months, to complete a single Rolls-Royce.