Rolls-Royce Commits Over £300 Million to Goodwood Expansion as 2024 Marks Historic Achievements
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled plans for an investment exceeding £300 million to expand its renowned manufacturing facility at Goodwood. This substantial financial commitment underscores the company’s dedication to producing some of the most complex, personalised, and valuable luxury motor cars in its history, as well as preparing for its transition to an all-battery electric vehicle (BEV) future.
A Landmark Year for Rolls-Royce
The year 2024 was marked by significant milestones for Rolls-Royce, with the introduction of four new models: the Cullinan Series II and Ghost Series II, along with their respective Black Badge variants. The company delivered 5,712 motor cars globally, making it the third-highest annual sales figure in its history. North America and Europe led the balanced global sales performance.
Rolls-Royce also achieved a record result in Bespoke content, with a 10% year-on-year increase in the average value per motor car. This growth reflects the growing demand for highly personalised, bespoke vehicles, reinforcing Rolls-Royce’s position as an authentic luxury house.
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented: “In 2024, Rolls-Royce reaffirmed its position as an authentic luxury house by crafting the most complex, personal, and valuable motor cars in its history. This momentum necessitates a £300 million-plus investment to extend the Home of Rolls-Royce. It’s our most substantial financial commitment to Goodwood since its opening in 2003 and a significant vote of confidence in the Rolls-Royce marque, securing our future here in the UK.”
Expanding Bespoke and Coachbuild Capabilities
The Goodwood facility extension will support the growing complexity and ambition of Bespoke and Coachbuild projects. This investment will provide the infrastructure needed to meet the rising demand for personalised luxury vehicles, tailored to reflect the unique identities of clients.
Since its opening in January 2003, the Goodwood plant has evolved significantly. Initially employing around 300 people and producing just one motor car per day, the facility now produces up to 28 motor cars daily and employs over 2,500 people. These include highly skilled manufacturing and craft specialists, supported by approximately 7,500 individuals within the UK supply chain.
Celebrating 120 Years of Excellence
The announcement of this landmark investment coincided with Rolls-Royce’s celebration of the 120th anniversary of the first meeting between its co-founders, The Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls and Henry (later Sir Henry) Royce, in May 1904. Planning permission for the expansion was granted in 2024, and site preparation and landscaping work are now underway.
This investment marks a pivotal chapter in Rolls-Royce’s journey, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and the continued evolution of the Rolls-Royce legacy.