The most-populous country on the globe is a world leader in all kinds of categories.
However, some readers may be surprised to find out that China led the world in the purchases of Rolls-Royces.
That’s correct. A country that has a hybrid mix of nearly every “ism” in the world can now boast that it is the world’s biggest buyer of one of the most famous brands of cars ever made.
And one of the mos luxurious brands.
Although BMW, which owns Rolls-Royce, did not list the numbers of vehicles sold in each country, the top-five breakdown shows the United States as second:
- China
- United States
- United Kingdom
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
In case you didn’t know, the company founded by the legendary Henry Royce ceased being a British company in 1999, although many people remain employed at Rolls-Royce in the United Kingdom.
Germany-based BMW said sales of Rolls-Royces increased 31 percent in 2011 over the previous year — from 2,711 to 3,538 cars delivered to customers.
Those sales may not sound like much in terms of the volume of cars, but 2011 was the highest annual sales year in the 107-year history of Rolls-Royce.
In fact, the previous best year was 1978 when 3,347 Rolls-Royces were sold in what was called the “Silver Shadow II era.”
That’s not bad in an era of global economic uncertainty, especially when one considers that Rolls-Royces are ultra-luxury vehicles.
It is also worth noting that Rolls-Royce is not interested as much in volume as it is in quality. Each Rolls-Royce is a work of art.
The photo of the very fine 2011 Phantom Drophead Coupe in this post shows why Rolls-Royce is increasing its sales. Quality, an artistic style and innovation have led to increased sales of the Ghost and Phantom model families.
“Strong sales growth was reported across the globe, with notable results seen in Asia Pacific (up 47 percent), North America (up 17 percent) and the Middle East (up 23 percent),” according to BMW.
“The United Kingdom performed well, reporting 30 per cent growth in the year. In Continental Europe, Germany and Russia were the largest growth markets, each more than doubling sales compared to 2010.”
The good news for Rolls-Royce means expansion into other markets.
“We had an outstanding year in 2011 and we should take a moment to reflect on this Great British success story,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, chief officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “Our business is in excellent shape.
“We are developing our dealer network, moving into new markets like South America, expanding our manufacturing operation in West Sussex to meet global demand and have plans to develop our product range.
“At the core of this extraordinary success is a dedicated, committed and, above all, passionate workforce.”
When I go to car shows, automotive museums, etc., among my favorite cars are Rolls-Royces. I’m sure some current models will eventually find themselves in museums in future years.
“The company’s portfolio includes the pinnacle Phantom family products — Phantom, Phantom Extended Wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé — and the more recently launched Ghost range,” according to Rolls-Royce. “Demand for all variants was strong. Interest in Ghost — including Ghost Extended Wheelbase, launched to wide acclaim in April — accounted for the lion’s share of 2011 growth.”
What makes many Rolls-Royces even more special is the customized work, and today cars are no different.
“2011 also marked a record for the Rolls-Royce Bespoke personalization program, a service with Rolls-Royce’s legendary hand-craftsmanship and attention to detail at its core,” Rolls-Royce said. “Nearly every Phantom family model leaving the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood came with some element of bespoke personalization, from unique paint colors, interior detailing and embroidery, to exquisite whole vehicle designs including champagne sets, humidors and picnic sets.
“Bespoke sales were also enhanced by two exceptional collections in 2011, the Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Collection and striking Year of the Dragon Phantom commissions. More Ghost clients have requested Bespoke cars, creating many exceptional examples across this model range.”
Rolls-Royce recently announced plans to expand its manufacturing plant at Goodwood in the United Kingdom, where more than 1,000 workers are employed.
“This will help the company meet further growth in worldwide sales and satisfy demand for highly personalized Ghost and Phantom models,” Rolls-Royce said.
Expansion was scheduled to begin this month.
