[Asia Economy Reporter Suyeon Woo] Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced on the 13th that it has unveiled 20 Rolls-Royce cars that have shone over the past 20 years to celebrate its 20th anniversary of establishment and production.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has been producing vehicles for 20 years since launching its headquarters and manufacturing plant in Goodwood, UK, in 2003. Goodwood, the Home of Rolls-Royce, is the only place in the world where Rolls-Royce cars are designed and handcrafted. It is also the headquarters overseeing Rolls-Royce’s business in over 50 countries worldwide.
In 2003, Rolls-Royce produced only a single model, the 7th generation Phantom. Since then, 20 models and derivative models have been born. Rolls-Royce explained that the current lineup reflects the evolution and innovation in design, technology, materials, and manufacturing methods sustained over the past 20 years.
Rolls-Royce completed the Phantom family by consecutively launching the Phantom Drophead Coupe in 2007 and the Phantom Coupe in 2008. In 2010, it released the Ghost, which led the renaissance of Rolls-Royce. The Ghost combines two characteristics: 'owner-driven,' where the owner drives the car themselves, and 'chauffeur-driven,' where a driver is employed separately. Thanks to this, it became the best-selling model since Rolls-Royce’s founding in 1904.
The product range further expanded with the launch of the most powerful model, the Wraith, in 2013. In 2016, the stylish drophead model Dawn was introduced. In 2018, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Cullinan, known as the 'Rolls-Royce of SUVs.' The Cullinan is currently the highest-demand model in the Rolls-Royce lineup.
As demand from younger customers increased, Rolls-Royce created the 'Black Badge' brand, featuring bolder expressions and enhanced driving performance. Currently, all models except the Phantom are also offered in Black Badge versions, accounting for more than one-third of the brand’s total sales.
The 20 cars unveiled this time also include Rolls-Royce’s innovative experimental vehicles called 'EX' models. Following Rolls-Royce tradition, these models bear the 'EX' designation and a distinctive red 'RR' badge, which were used to maintain secrecy for models under development until the 1950s.
Additionally, two Coachbuild vehicles showcasing ultimate bespoke capabilities are included. Rolls-Royce launched an independent Coachbuild division, the highest bespoke manufacturing method, to provide rare services. In May 2021, the first Coachbuild model, the Boat Tail, was unveiled. These models, made only by handcrafted individual orders, inherit the coachbuilding tradition from the brand’s early days while incorporating the latest design sensibilities, engineering, and manufacturing technologies.
Torsten M?ller-?tv?s, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said, "The 20 models produced over the first 20 years at the Home of Rolls-Royce are the result of such dedication and adventurous spirit," adding, "These vehicles were made possible because Rolls-Royce understood and responded to the ever-changing demands and tastes of customers over time."
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