June 5.06.1998, XNUMX | Rolls-Royce absorbed by Volkswagen

The history of the acquisition of the elite brand Rolls-Royce by German capital is unusual. 

On June 5, 1998, Volkswagen received approval to purchase Rolls-Royce Motor Cars for $703 million, but owner Vickers reserved the Rolls-Royce trademark and logo to remain in their hands. Volkswagen acquired the Crewe plant and the rights to build cars, but Vickers was still able to own the Rolls-Royce marque it used by licensing it to BMW.

The Bavarian brand was the main supplier of Rolls-Royce. It was his twelve-cylinder engines that powered, for example, the Silver Seraph model. Due to a takeover of the company by a competitor, the contract could be terminated, and Volkswagen could not quickly develop a drive suitable for Rolls-Royce.

Both companies have begun negotiations on how to break the impasse. As a consequence, Volkswagen agreed to sell the rights to the logo and Spirit of Ecstasy.

Until 2003, Rolls-Royce was built under the leadership of Volkswagen, equipped with BMW engines, and in the meantime, the Bavarian concern was preparing a completely new model, as well as a plant and all administrative premises.

The Crewe plant, which remained in VW hands, became Bentley Motors Limited, and BMW established a new company, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Added by: 3 years ago,

a photo: Press materials