Do You Know BMW Owns Rolls Royce?

The automotive world was forever changed in 1998 when BMW acquired the rights to one of the most prestigious luxury car brands, Rolls-Royce. This strategic move not only solidified BMW’s position in the ultra-luxury segment but also ensured that Rolls-Royce continued to thrive with modern engineering while maintaining its heritage of opulence and craftsmanship. Here’s a closer look at how BMW became the driving force behind Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

How BMW Acquired Rolls-Royce

In the late 1990s, Rolls-Royce was owned by Vickers, a British engineering company, which decided to sell the luxury car division. BMW and Volkswagen engaged in a fierce bidding war for ownership, with Volkswagen ultimately winning by purchasing Rolls-Royce and Bentley for £430 million. However, there was a catch—Rolls-Royce’s brand name and logo were not included in the deal.

BMW had already been supplying engines and parts to Rolls-Royce and had a separate agreement to use the brand’s trademarks. In a clever maneuver, BMW secured the rights to the Rolls-Royce name and logo for just £40 million, effectively making them the rightful owner of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars starting from 2003. Volkswagen retained Bentley, creating a clear distinction between the two legendary brands.

BMW’s Influence on Rolls-Royce

Since taking full control in 2003, BMW has invested heavily in Rolls-Royce, leading to the creation of state-of-the-art production facilities and the introduction of new, ultra-luxurious models.

  • Goodwood Production Facility: BMW built a dedicated manufacturing plant in Goodwood, England, where every Rolls-Royce is handcrafted to perfection.

  • Modern Engineering: BMW incorporated advanced technology and efficient powertrains while ensuring that the essence of Rolls-Royce—unparalleled luxury and hand-built craftsmanship—remained intact.

  • New Models: Under BMW, Rolls-Royce launched the Phantom, Ghost, Wraith, Dawn, and the Cullinan SUV, each redefining luxury in its own way.

A Winning Combination

BMW’s ownership of Rolls-Royce has proven to be a masterstroke, allowing the brand to maintain its exclusivity and legacy while embracing modern innovation. The German automaker’s expertise in performance and reliability complements Rolls-Royce’s heritage of elegance and sophistication, making this partnership one of the most successful in the luxury automotive world.

Today, Rolls-Royce continues to set benchmarks in the ultra-luxury car segment, all while operating under BMW’s guidance. The seamless blend of tradition and innovation ensures that Rolls-Royce remains the pinnacle of automotive excellence for years to come.

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