12 Interesting Facts About Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a British luxury automobile manufacturer, a wholly owned subsidiary of BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) since 1998. While BMW owns the car manufacturing business, Rolls-Royce plc, a separate entity, continues to own the rights to the Rolls-Royce brand for aircraft engines.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars operates from its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Goodwood, England, where it crafts its luxury vehicles largely by hand. The brand’s history of luxury, performance, and meticulous craftsmanship is legendary, and under BMW’s ownership, the marque has maintained its reputation as a leading luxury car manufacturer in the world.

Market Position:

In 2023, Rolls-Royce achieved record revenues of over €6 billion, driven by strong demand for bespoke models, particularly in markets such as the Middle East, China, and the United States. Despite limited production numbers, Rolls-Royce remains a leader in the super-luxury car segment, selling vehicles that often exceed $400,000 each.

Interesting Facts About Rolls-Royce:

1. Spirit of Ecstasy: The famous Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, depicting a woman leaning forward with her arms outstretched, was first introduced in 1911. It has become one of the most recognizable symbols in the automotive world and is a signature feature on all Rolls-Royce models.
2. The Most Silent Cars: Rolls-Royce is renowned for producing some of the quietest cars in the world. The Rolls-Royce Phantom is known for its acoustic insulation, with over 300 pounds of soundproofing materials used in its construction.
3. First SUV: In 2018, Rolls-Royce introduced its first-ever SUV, the Cullinan, named after the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever discovered. The Cullinan combines Rolls-Royce luxury with off-road capability and has become one of the brand’s best-selling models.
4. Rolls-Royce Phantom: The Phantom is Rolls-Royce’s flagship sedan and has been in production since 1925, making it one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history. Each Phantom is painstakingly handcrafted and takes months to build.
5. Rolls-Royce’s Flying Lady: The Spirit of Ecstasy is known as the “Flying Lady,” but it has security features as well. If tampered with or struck, the ornament retracts into the hood, safeguarding it from theft or damage.
6. Longest-Running Model: The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, first introduced in 1906, was in production for almost two decades. The Silver Ghost was hailed as the “best car in the world” for its engineering precision and reliability, helping establish Rolls-Royce’s reputation for quality.
7. Rolls-Royce Wraith: The Wraith, a two-door coupe introduced in 2013, is the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever produced. It boasts a 6.6-liter V12 engine with 624 horsepower, offering immense power combined with the luxury the brand is known for.
8. Luxury Performance: While Rolls-Royce vehicles are associated with luxury, they also offer impressive performance. The Rolls-Royce Dawn, a convertible model, can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, despite its heavy build.
9. Most Expensive Model: One of the most expensive Rolls-Royce cars ever built is the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, introduced in 2021. Priced at over $28 million, the Boat Tail is a fully customized model built for an extremely wealthy client, featuring a design inspired by luxury yachts.
10. Rolls-Royce Ghost: Introduced in 2009, the Ghost is designed to be a slightly more accessible model compared to the Phantom, yet it still maintains Rolls-Royce’s impeccable luxury and refinement. The name “Ghost” pays homage to the Silver Ghost, a legendary model from the brand’s early days.
11. Iconic Features: Rolls-Royce cars come with iconic features such as coach doors, which open in reverse, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit. This feature has become a hallmark of the brand’s design.
12. Record Sales: In 2023, Rolls-Royce set new records with over 6,000 cars sold globally. The demand for ultra-luxury vehicles remains strong, particularly in markets like the Middle East and China, where buyers seek the prestige and customization offered by Rolls-Royce.

Famous Owners of Rolls-Royce:

1. Queen Elizabeth II: Rolls-Royce has a long association with British royalty. Queen Elizabeth II used a Rolls-Royce Phantom VI for official engagements for several decades.
2. Elton John: The British music legend has owned several Rolls-Royce cars, including a Phantom. He’s auctioned some of his collection for charity over the years.
3. David Beckham: The football icon has been seen driving a Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe, one of the brand’s most luxurious models.
4. Jennifer Lopez: The pop star owns a Rolls-Royce Phantom that she frequently uses for her high-profile appearances.
5. Floyd Mayweather: The boxer has a vast collection of luxury cars, including multiple Rolls-Royces such as the Phantom, Ghost, and Wraith.