Who Owns The Rolls Royce Car Company

Alright, gather 'round, folks. Let's talk about Rolls-Royce, the granddaddy of luxury cars. You know, the ones that make you feel like you're driving a cloud on wheels. But who's actually behind the wheel of this massive, shiny beast of a company? Let's find out, shall we?

Once Upon a Time in England...

Let's rewind to the late 1800s, when two chaps, Charles Rolls and Frederick Henry Royce, decided to join forces and create something extraordinary. Imagine them in their waistcoats and top hats, shaking hands and saying, "Let's make cars that are whisper-quiet, incredibly luxurious, and so exclusive that only the crème de la crème can afford them." And boom! The Rolls-Royce we know today was born.

Now, you might think that the company is still owned by these two Victorian gentlemen, but alas, time waits for no one, not even the rich and famous. So, let's fast-forward to the 20th century and see who's been driving this luxurious bus since then.

From British Hands to German Pockets

In 1998, the British company Rolls-Royce Motors was sold to Volkswagen, the German automotive giant. Imagine it like this: Volkswagen was walking down the street, spotted Rolls-Royce, and said, "Wow, I want to be just like you when I grow up. Can I buy you?" And Rolls-Royce, being the elegant soul it is, said, "Well, I am quite expensive, but if you insist..."

But here's the twist: Volkswagen didn't get to keep the Rolls-Royce name or the famous Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet ornament. No, no, no. Those were kept by the original Rolls-Royce company, which was spun off into a separate entity. It's like when you split with your partner, but you both still share the same friends. Awkward, right?

Is Bmw Owner Of Rolls Royce

An Indian Summer for Rolls-Royce

Fast forward to 2003, and Rolls-Royce finds itself a new home with BMW, the Bavarian carmaker. Picture this: BMW was at a party, saw Rolls-Royce sitting alone in a corner, and said, "Hey, want to dance? I promise I won't step on your toes." And so, they started a beautiful friendship.

But why did Rolls-Royce leave Volkswagen? Well, it's like when you break up with someone because they don't appreciate your fancy taste in cars. Volkswagen wanted to make more affordable cars, while Rolls-Royce was like, "Nah, I'm good. I'll stick to being exclusive, thanks." So, they went their separate ways, and Rolls-Royce ended up with BMW.

Rolls Royce Past Ceos at Nicole Hoover blog

And They Lived Happily Ever After...

And that, my friends, is the story of how Rolls-Royce found its forever home with BMW. Today, Rolls-Royce is based in Goodwood, England, where it continues to make cars that are the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. It's like the prom king and queen of the automotive world, always dressed to impress and never afraid to show off a little.

So, the next time you see a Rolls-Royce Phantom gliding down the street, you'll know that it's BMW who's footing the bill. And who knows? Maybe one day, you'll be lucky enough to drive one. Until then, we can all dream, can't we?