The company said that 56 percent Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase models were sold with bespoke design in 2011.

“It is always our goal to exceed our clients’ highest expectations and fulfill their innermost desires,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce CEO. “With highly bespoke Phantom and Ghost models, we are able to achieve this. The passion with which our bespoke craftspeople create these beautiful cars is reflected in some truly outstanding examples delivered across the globe last year.”

Rolls-Royce announced earlier this year that it is expanding its bespoke operations to meet growing demand. The company also plans on expanding its plant, partly due to the increase in bespoke cars.

- By: Omar Rana

Last year proved to be a strong one for Rolls-Royce as the prestigious automaker recently announced that it has reached a record high in annual sales, the highest it is 107 year history.

Up 31 percent from the previous year’s sales, 3,538 units were sold in 2011, compared to 2010’s 2,711 units delivered. The previous record, set in 1978, was for 3,347 units sold.

“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 Executive 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.”

The Ghost and Phantom models sales helped contribute to the overall increase, with the biggest jumps in sales found in Asia Pacific, with a 47% increase, the Middle East, up by 23%, and North America, which saw a 17% increase.

Looks like Rolls Royce is going to be tough to budge from the top of the ultra-luxury segment in upcoming years, especially with the added success of its Rolls-Royce Bespoke program.

By: Alexandra Koken

You might find it hard to believe that it’s not only the mass automakers that have recalls. Special uber-luxury brands like Rolls-Royce also recall vehicles once in a blue moon – as is the case today with Rolls-Royce. The brand is recalling almost 600 Ghost sedans in the Untied States due to a circuit board heating issue.

The recall comes as BMW issues one covering 32,000 8 and 12-cylinder turbo engines. The Rolls-Royce Ghost, which shares components with the BMW 7-Series and is powered by a 6.6 liter twin-turbo V8, is also being involved in the recall.

The recall consists of 1,900 2010 model-year Ghost units – 589 of those are in the United States.

Get your cars fixed!

- By: Omar Rana

Source: CNNMoney

Rolls-Royce announced today that it will be entering the South American market for the first time in its history. The company’s CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos is currently visiting the region to meet with future dealers, customers, prospects and of course the press.

“I am delighted to announce our plans for entry into the South American market,” said Muller-Otvos. “Brazil and Chile have seen impressive economic growth, with an increasing demand from discerning customers for pinnacle luxury products. Rolls-Royce is growing very successfully in a number of fast-growing emerging markets and it is therefore appropriate that we have a strong presence in Brazil and Chile.”

Rolls-Royce sales during the first nine months of 2011 have been up 41 percent. The company says there has been strong demand for both Phantom and Ghost models. The company is beefing up production at Goodwood in West Sussex to meet the increasing demand in the Ghost and Phantom.

I wonder who these people are that are demanding Ghost and Phantom model in this economy.

- By: Omar Rana

Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Mueller-Oetvoe said that he sees the company achieving record sales this year and is optimistic on growth for the next year.

“I have not seen any reluctance to consider buying a Rolls-Royce,” Mueller-Oetvoes told Reuters. “I do not feel that sentiment is deteriorating in the luxury market.”

The United States is Rolls-Royce’s largest market. It sold about a third of its cars in the U.S. last year – however, Mueller-Oetvoes said he sees bigger growth potential in Asia, and especially in China.

Last year, Rolls-Royce delivered 2,711 units – up 171 percent compared to the year before.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

Last we heard anything about the Rolls-Royce Phantom EE – aka 102EX - it was reported that study groups showed that the company’s customer base had no interest in electric uber-luxury vehicles. However, that doesn’t mean Rolls-Royce is just going to give up on it.

“The 102EX is on a tour around the globe,” said Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW AG at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. “The car is a test bed that allows us to gather data and customer feedback in order for us to make an informed decision on alternative powertrains for Rolls-Royce.”

As of right now Rolls-Royce customers are mainly fancy the Phantom. The Rolls-Royce Ghost has brought in new customers with 80 percent not having owned a Rolls-Royce previously.

“After 2010, we will probably see another year of record sales in 2011,” Reithofer said. “Many markets contribute to this success – and by the way, Germany has seen the strongest sales growth in Europe in the first half of 2011.”

- By: Omar Rana

Due to a significant growth in customer demand, British ultra-luxury brand Rolls-Royce has announced that they will be expanding their “Bespoke“ operation. Based at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ home in Goodwood, West Essex, UK, the operation calls for an increase in staff including designers, engineers, project management staff and more. This increase will double Rolls-Royce’s staff by the end of 2011.

The expansion can be dialed down to heightened demand in specific and very personalized features in Rolls-Royce’s lineup of hand built masterpieces. Because customers are asking for more specific options and features, Rolls-Royce’s current staff was found to be insufficient in keeping up with the demand.

“The ability to bespoke one’s vehicle has always been at the heart of Rolls-Royce so it is very encouraging to see that after more than one hundred years at the very pinnacle of the automotive world, our Bespoke services are still very much in demand from customers all over the world today,” said Jolyon Nash, a member of the Sales and Marketing Team at Rolls-Royce.

Rolls-Royce Bespoke Options:

- By: Chris Chin

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced today that it has officially opened the doors to its latest dealership in Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Now we don’t cover every automaker’s dealer opening, but this is Rolls-Royce and that’s a big deal.

“We continue to invest in a Malaysian market buoyed by the country’s economic growth and growing appetite for super-luxury cars,” said Paul Harris, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Asia Pacific Regional Director. “Our presence signals our commitment to providing service support for current and future customers, many of whom are new to the brand.”

The new 224 square meter showroom holds just three Rolls-Royce cars, with a lounge that allows customers to configure their car using color, wood and leather samples from the plant at Goodwood, West Sussex.

The number of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars showrooms in the Asia Pacific region is currently 18.

- By: Roman Bronfenbrener

Looking for a used Rolls-Royce but a bit hesitant to throw a couple hundred thousand without a certified pre-owned program? Well, lucky for you Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today announced details for its approved program for pre-owned cars.

“Each car has to meet exacting criteria set by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars,” Rolls-Royce said. “Factory-trained technicians conduct a painstaking inspection procedure, including a full road test, to ensure that every Provenance car reaches the highest standards prior to delivery. Cars must have been maintained in strict adherence to Rolls-Royce servicing requirements to be considered and are only sold through the international network of authorised Rolls-Royce Motor Cars dealers.”

Along with that strict criteria, Rolls-Royce offers the reassurance of an independently obtained vehicle history and unlimited mileage verification, together with a minimum 24 month warranty, fully inclusive servicing and 24-hour roadside assistance.

“We are delighted to announce the latest details for Rolls-Royce Provenance,” said Jolyon Nash, Director, Sales & Marketing, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “Our customers expect the very best motor cars in the world and we are pleased to be able to offer the same support and peace of mind for approved pre-owned cars that we offer for new vehicles.”

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost

Rolls-Royce of North America’s president David Archibald says that the uber-luxury brand could more than double sales in the second-quarter of 2011, in large part because of the company’s new Ghost model.

The Rolls-Royce Ghost, which is priced lower than the Phantom at $246,500 in the U.S., helped Rolls-Royce hit a record in global sales of 2,711 in 2010. That’s up 167 over the previous year, Archibald said.

“One of the things that Ghost has brought is a more viable business case in more cities,” he said.

Click here for more news on the Rolls-Royce Ghost.

Archibald said that Rolls-Royce will add more dealers in China, increasing the number of showrooms to 11 by the end of 2011. China will end up having more Rolls-Royce dealers than any other country but the United States. The U.S. is still Rolls-Royce’s largest market. The company has plans to add four new U.S. dealerships in 2011.

Currently, the BMW-owned brand has 81 dealerships worldwide.

Refresher: The 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost is powered by a 6.6L V12 twin-turbo making 563-hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox, 0-60 mph in the Ghost comes in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Prices start at $245,000.

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase

Making its debut at the 2011 Shanghai Motor Show for rich folks that need more space, the Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase has rolled in with a little more room on the inside.

“This latest Rolls-Royce is a model of outstanding design and unrivalled luxury,” said CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos. “Ghost Extended Wheelbase delivers all the poise and dynamism enjoyed by discerning Ghost owners, with the indulgent experience of an extended wheelbase car. It is the very best of both worlds.”

Click here for more news on the Rolls-Royce Ghost.

The Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase adds on 170mm to the car’s wheelbase, which the company says more-than doubles knee-room compared to the standard Ghost.

Power still comes from the 6.6L twin-turbo V12 engine making 563 horsepower with a maximum torque of 575 lb-ft. That allows the Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase to go from 0 to 62 mph in just 5 seconds.

The Rolls-Royce Ghost will be built to order and is available in only limited numbers for 2011 until full production kicks off in 2012.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase:

- By: Omar Rana

Rolls-Royce Ghost - BMW Concept M5

Even though BMW had just recently revealed the all-new BMW M5 Concept, there’s much speculation as to what the German make has planned for the next couple years.

Some journalists were invited to Munich for an update on BMW’s latest efforts. Next to the F10 M5, a number of updated 1er hatchbacks were spotted lurking around BMW’s R&D center in Munich. Due for a mid-cycle refresh, the differences seem to limited to new front and rear fascias that mimic the new 5er. Other differences noticed, especially on other recently updated BMWs, is the taller and more upright nose to meet new pedestrian safety requirements. Included are bigger, wider kidney grilles and updated headlights.

Also spotted was a fully camoed 3er, which because of its extensive camo suit and non-production taillights, was a little harder to render. It was parked next to a five-door 1er and due to the obvious proportions of being slightly longer than the 1er, a short trunk and short front and rear overhangs. Rumors were that the new 3er would be revealed at the Frankfurt auto show later this year, but BMW immediately debunked this rumor.

Additionally, even though the new 6er was just fully revealed earlier this year, another 6er prototype was spotted with an all-glass roof, which we assume could be a Mercedes “Magic Sky” glass roof competitor that like the Benz version, changes transparency either automatically or at the touch of a button.

Alternatively, BMW announced that the new X1 crossover is put on indefinite hold because of unexpected demand in other markets, which has its plants running at capacity. To fix this, BMW’s working hard around the clock to meet the demands of the US market. Equally, BMW plans on replacing the current straight-six with a 245hp turbocharged 2.0L four-banger that offers a better torque curve, a quick 0-60 time (.7 seconds to be exact), and better fuel economy than the current straight-six. BMW’s legendary straight-six will remain an option however.

More diesel models are also in the works as the current X5 is selling more diesel models than the gasoline V8, and the current 335d makes up 10-15% of 3er sales. A 335d xDrive is also in the list of things to work on for the German mark, as well as more efficient 2.0L turbocharged diesel four-banger models.

Lastly, a camouflaged Rolls-Royce Ghost was spotted, probably suggesting a mid-cycle refresh in the works complete with new taillights, headlights, and even a new grille and front fascia.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: WOT

Rolls Royce Abu Dhabi Dealership

900 square meters is a lot of space to display five cars – but not for Rolls-Royce. The brand has just opened its largest dealership in the world in the Umm Al Nar area of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Torsten Muller-Otvos, CEO of Rolls-Royce, was on hand to unveil the new facility.

“The new 900 square meter showroom provides space for displaying five Rolls-Royce motor cars, a coffee bar and a customer configuration lounge including color and trim samples,” Rolls-Royce said in a statement. “The showroom is also directly linked to a new dedicated Rolls-Royce service facility.”

Click here for more news on Rolls-Royce.

“The showroom opening in Abu Dhabi represents one of a line of new and expanded Rolls‑Royce showrooms which have been unveiled throughout the Gulf region in the last 18 months,” Muller-Otvos said. “These investments underline the continuing confidence that the company sees in the Rolls-Royce brand across the Middle East”

The Middle East region is a very important driver in the global growth of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Last year the region contributed over 15% of our global sales.

Rolls Royce Abu Dhabi Dealership:

- By: Omar Rana

Rolls-Royce Ghost

According to reports coming out of the UK, Rolls-Royce is gearing up three different variants of the new Ghost sedan. All three variants are due to go on sale within the next three years. The three variants will include a long-wheelbase model, a Ghost coupe and a Ghost drophead coupe.

For the long-wheelbase model, all the extra length is added after the B-pillar, requiring a new roof and longer rear doors. The wheelbase is expected to grow by 5 or 6 inches. The long-wheelbase Ghost will be the first of the three models to arrive on the market.

Click here for more news on the Rolls-Royce Ghost.

The Ghost coupe and the Ghost Drophead Coupe will join the lineup shortly after.

The automaker is also studying the possibility of greener models. “We will evaluate alternative propulsion next year,” Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos told AutoCar. “We want to find out what our customers expect.”

We’ve previously heard rumors of a Ghost Hybrid in the works as well.

Refresher: The 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost is powered by a 6.6L V12 twin-turbo making 563-hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox, 0-60 mph in the Ghost comes in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Prices start at $245,000.

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

Rolls-Royce Ghost Diva by Fenice Milano

One of the prime complaints about the Rolls Royce Ghost has always been its way of flying under the radar. To fix this, the bland and nondescript English car has taken on an Italian flair, courtesy of Fenice Milano. The design kit includes three colors: bronze, white, and navy blue. It also includes new hoodsm fendersm and grids lined in gold. Hey, if you”ve got a Rolls Royce, you might as well get it in gold. And because the trim on the RR Ghost isn”t worthy of its newly gold-emblazoned exterior, Milano”s given that a steroid shot too: both the dashboard and passenger compartment are in leather and wood, with two options.

The interior has a healthy splash of 24K hold as well, with profiles and inserts that have been hand shaped by artisans (which are now only found in Italy). The seats are redesigned, as they were previously unbearable, and the pop-out picnic table and drink holder is, again, lined with gold.

ECU upgrades and suspension optimization mean that none of these desperately needed upgrades will fall prey to the Rolls Royce”s unpredictable, nearly intolerable ride quality, and that this car will finally live up to the Rolls Royce name its original manufacturers clearly did not deserve.

Make the jump for the press release and the high-res gallery.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Diva by Fenice Milano:

Press Release:

‘DIVA’ FENICE MILANO: ELEGANCE AND RACINESS FOR A CAR WITH A STRONG PERSONALITY

Everlasting synonym of class, elegance and perfect English style, Rolls Royce has become through the years the brand of celebrities and of all major international politicians.

In 2009, to meet the market’s modern request, the renowned English manufacturer launched the Ghost model. The ‘baby’ Rolls (it is only 540 cm long) has a less formal look compared to her bigger sisters, but it doesn’t abandon the typical pride of the flagships boasted with the ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’, the famous little statue on the front. Moreover its sporty character is supported by the 12V engine 570 Hp that make of her the more powerful Rolls ever built, able to accelerate from 0 to 100 Km/h in only 4,9 seconds.

The ‘Diva’ by Fenice Milano is based on this jewel produced in a limited quantity. Thanks to an important internal and external restyling, the ‘Diva’ adds a touch of Italian elegance and style, together with technical and performance improvements, able to make this car a true masterpiece with a strong personality.

To begin with the exterior, ‘Diva’ is proposed in three elegant versions with a bi-colour livery: from the classic blue navy, to the delicious bronze and the luxury limited edition white golden pearlescent varnishing that includes particles in 24K gold. For the navy-blue version, the bonnet and fender are in white golden pearlescent varnishing and chromed frontal grid; while for the white version the bonnet, fender and grid are in 24K gold. For the bronze version, instead, three combinations are available: bonnet, fender and grid in 24K gold, or bonnet and fender in white golden pearlescent varnishing and grid in 24K gold or chromed bronze grid.

Inside the console design has been maintained, but a few enhancements are provided, which due to the use of fine materials, make ‘Diva’ the most exclusive car available on the market. The dashboard and the passenger compartment are in biscuit?coloured leather and wood (teak or grey oak) and include white or bronze Alcantara profiles and inserts in 24K gold, whose outlines have been hand shaped by Fenice Milano’s artisans. The wheel, redesigned starting from the original one, has the crown covered in biscuit-coloured leather ant the central part in 24K gold and wood (teak or grey oak). Also the seats take inspiration from the original ones, but are redesigned following ergonomic principles and realized in white combined with biscuit?coloured pure leather (alternatively a version with biscuit?coloured pure leather coupled with bronze Alcantara seats is available), and like in the original car the picnic tables and the integrated minibar with glass holders have been maintained and realized in 24K gold.

As it happens for all Fenice Milano’s project, also for ‘Diva’ the aesthetic embellishments are coupled with technical interventions, able to improve the performances of the base model. The ECU upgrade, the suspensions adjustment and the optimization of the exhaust and suction system guarantee in fact notably superior performances and even more comfort onboard.

- By: Zain Haq

Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase in Gunmetal Metallic

We learned yesterday that Rolls-Royce is planning derivatives of its Ghost sedan lineup. While it won’t be showing any Ghost variants at the 2010 Paris Motor Show later this month, Rolls-Royce will show five bespoke designs to show off the extensive personalization program.

The collection includes a Phantom Extended Wheelbase in Gunmetal metallic with Sunrise leather interior and a Carrara White metallic Phantom Drophead Coupe with Hotspur Red leather interior. A Phantom Coupe and two Ghosts complete the lineup.

“Ghost is a more approachable Rolls-Royce that is bringing an entirely new type of customer to the Rolls-Royce brand,” said CEO Torsten Müller-Otovs. “But in Paris we are also demonstrating how we continue to strengthen our position as the pinnacle luxury brand thanks to the enduring appeal of Phantom family and the depth of our bespoke personalisation service.”

The display will also show Rolls-Royce’s exclusive four-person picnic set.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase in Gunmetal Metallic:

Rolls-Royce Bespoke Picnic Set:

- By: Omar Rana

Rolls-Royce Ghost

We’ve previously heard that Rolls-Royce will expand the Ghost model lineup with a convertible, coupe or even a hybrid variant. Well, according to Rolls-Royce Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, there will definitely be other Ghost versions – he’s just not sure which of the above mentioned models the firm will decide to produce.

“I”m quite confident that we”re going to see a Ghost derivative to come,” Rolls-Royce Chief Executive Officer Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes said in an interview with Bloomberg. “There”s still a lot of potential in the market” for a less formal Rolls model.

Mueller-Oetvoes said he is waiting on more feedback from customers before deciding on a timeframe and style for future Ghost derivatives. “We will definitely not end off in the tens of thousands of units,” he said. “That”s not the right strategy for us. Rolls-Royce always needs to stay very exclusive. We only build a car when there is a customer behind it.”

Click here for more news on the Rolls-Royce Ghost.

Refresher: The 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost is powered by a 6.6L V12 twin-turbo making 563-hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox, 0-60 mph in the Ghost comes in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Prices start at $245,000.

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Bloomberg

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost

The Rolls-Royce Ghost has helped the uber-luxury brand increase its sales and is expected to increase production to about 2,000 units in 2010 form 1,200 in 2009. With the help of the Ghost, Rolls-Royce sales in June increased more than fourfold worldwide and in the first half of 2010 sales were up by almost 200 percent, compared to the same period in 2009.

The company is now looking to offer derivatives of the Ghost. We’re not sure when exactly you’ll see them but look out for a convertible and coupe version of the Ghost very soon. A hybrid version has also been previously rumored.

No major changes to the Rolls-Royce Phantom lineup are planned.

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)