Rolls-Royce

History

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was founded in 1904 when Charles Rolls and Henry Royce joined forces to create the world's finest luxury automobiles. The brand gained worldwide recognition as a symbol of British elegance and craftsmanship. After BMW's acquisition in 2003, every vehicle is handcrafted at the 42-hectare Goodwood factory in West Sussex, a process taking approximately six months.

EV strategy

With the Spectre, Rolls-Royce presented its first fully electric flagship. It has since taken back the goal of going electric-only from 2030: CEO Chris Brownridge points to changed legislation and to the V12 being part of the marque's history, and at Goodwood electric cars and V12s run down the same line. Electric work continues regardless: the open two-seater Project Nightingale was shown in April 2026, limited to 100 cars, with deliveries from 2028.

Good to know

• Each Rolls-Royce is built by approximately 60 craftspeople over six months, featuring hand-stitched leather and hand-painted pinstripes.
• The bodywork comprises over 500 parts, all hand-welded together.
• Every Rolls-Royce engine is designed to retain at least 10% power reserve for superior acceleration.
• The iconic roof-mounted 'Spirit of Ecstasy' emblem is one of the world's most recognized automobile symbols.