German Motoring Giants Save Rolls-Royce and Bentley with Historic Deal

Strategic Insights -

A bitter battle for control of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has been won by Volkswagen, while BMW will acquire the Rolls-Royce trademark under a deal involving the two German motoring giants. The agreement has significant implications for the future of Rolls-Royce and Bentley, with Rolls-Royce Plc chairman Sir Ralph Robins emphasizing the importance of preserving and protecting the Rolls-Royce brand name. The deal also safeguards jobs at the Rolls-Royce headquarters in Crewe, Cheshire, with the latest luxury model, the Silver Seraph, set to continue production.

Key Takeaways:

  • Volkswagen has won the battle to acquire Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, while BMW will acquire the Rolls-Royce trademark.
  • The deal involves Rolls-Royce Plc, which has been unhappy with the prospect of the Rolls-Royce brand name being used by Volkswagen.
  • BMW will pay Rolls-Royce Plc £40 million for the right to use the trademark.
  • Rolls-Royce jobs at their headquarters in Crewe, Cheshire, have been safeguarded, and the Silver Seraph model will continue production.
  • The historic deal comes after a bitter fight between BMW and Volkswagen for control of the Rolls motor business.
  • Rolls-Royce Plc chairman Sir Ralph Robins has emphasized the importance of preserving and protecting the Rolls-Royce brand name.
  • The Silver Seraph model is a luxury car produced by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
  • Rolls-Royce Plc is the parent company of the Rolls-Royce brand, which is controlled by the aero engine makers.
  • BMW has been involved in a bitter fight for control of the Rolls motor business, with a £340 million offer rejected in favor of Volkswagen's £430 million bid.

Statistics:

  • The deal involves BMW paying £40 million for the right to use the Rolls-Royce trademark.
  • Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has been valued at £430 million, which is the amount of Volkswagen's bid.
  • The Rolls-Royce brand name is controlled by Rolls-Royce Plc, which has been unhappy with the prospect of it being used by Volkswagen.
  • The Rolls-Royce Motor Cars factory is located in Crewe, Cheshire, and employs a significant number of workers.
  • The latest luxury model, the Silver Seraph, will continue production as a result of the deal.

Sources:

  • "Great British car names Rolls-Royce and Bentley have been saved..." (Daily Telegraph, exact date not specified)
  • Rolls-Royce Plc website (exact date not specified)