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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester awarded Rolls-Royce Global Dealer of the Year

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester, based in Knutsford won the coveted Global Dealer of the Year award at the recent Global Dealer Conference held inNew York.

With 90 Rolls-Royce dealers across the world and a record breaking year for worldwide sales with over 3,000 cars sold there was strong competition facing the team in Knutsford however it was their unfaltering dedication to customer service and enthusiasm to grow the business that impressed the manufacturer the most.

Jon Crossley, Managing Director said, “At the beginning of the evening I was delighted to find out we had retained our title from 2010 as Regional Dealer of the Year for UK, Europe and South Africa, but then to have won the Global award in addition to this was a very special moment for us all. Having worked so well as a team and increasing our sales by 67% from 2010 it feels fantastic to know that Rolls-Royce is equally delighted with passion for the brand and the results we have achieved.

“With such a staggering amount of sales in places like the Far East (particularly China) these days, it is a real testament to our company that Rolls-Royce has awarded us with such a fantastic title as Global Dealer of the Year!

“Of course, Sir Henry Royce lived in Knutsford for a significant amount of time in his adult life, and infamously meeting Charles Rolls at the Midland Hotel inManchesterleading to the creation of Rolls-Royce. This is something that we are very proud to be a part of, dedicating our recently opened showroom onManchester Roadto Sir Henry Royce in a ceremony lead by the Mayor of Knutsford and attended by a host of our local customers.”

To find out more about Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester, please visit www.rolls-roycemotorcars-manchester.co.uk or call the team on 01565 700000

BEIJING DEBUT FOR THE ULTIMATE ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM EXTENDED WHEELBASE

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has returned to Auto China in 2012 with a world debut. The new Phantom Extended Wheelbase takes centre stage in the company’s largest market, where the majority of Phantom buyers commission this ultimate expression of a Rolls-Royce. The launch in Beijing follows last year’s global debut for Ghost Extended Wheelbase in Shanghai.

Phantom Extended Wheelbase completes the Phantom Series II family, following the debuts of Phantom Saloon, Phantom Coupé and Phantom Drophead Coupé at the Geneva motor show in March. The launch also comes as Rolls-Royce Motor Cars continues to grow in China, having opened three new showrooms this year, with five more to come in the near future.

“I am proud to present our new benchmark of automotive luxury in China,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “No other luxury product comes close to Phantom Extended Wheelbase in staging an object of exquisite beauty, effortless opulence and grand theatre. I am delighted that our discerning Chinese clients continue to value Phantom Extended Wheelbase so highly. And with the changes for Series II I am confident that it will continue to retain its position at the very pinnacle of the ultra-luxury goods marketplace for many years to come.”

Phantom Series II evolves the iconic Rolls-Royce Phantom which was launched on 1 January 2003 at the company’s new home and headquarters in Goodwood, England. And like other Phantom Series II models, Phantom Extended Wheelbase features significant improvements in design, drive-train and technology.

Encapsulating the changes that lie beneath is a striking new front-end design, complete with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures. Fully-LED headlamps as standard deliver a characteristic whiter light, and encompass technologies that automatically change the shape and direction of light beams according to road orientation and in response to different driving conditions.

New driver assistance technologies ensure that Phantom Extended Wheelbase retains its reputation for effortlessness. A modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controller, for example, controls a new satellite navigation system with functions that include 3D maps with landscape topography, guided tours and composite route planning.

Information, maps and video content are presented on a larger 8.8 inch control centre display, a feature underlined by eight programmable bookmarks presenting access to key functions at a driver’s fingertips. Front, rear and top-view camera systems further augment ease of manoeuvring. When reverse parking, for example, rear path prediction automatically deploys on the screen.

The word waftability has always been part of the Rolls-Royce lexicon, with models past and present being renowned for their magnificent ride experience. Phantom Extended Wheelbase reinforces the company’s reputation for both.

A new 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential enhance already exemplary driving dynamics, perfectly complementing the V12 direct injection engine. Fuel consumption improves by 10 per cent on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions for the Extended Wheelbase fall from 388 to 349 g/km as a consequence.

It takes 60 pairs of hands and more than 450 hours to design, construct and craft every Rolls-Royce Phantom. At the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood there are around 1,000 employees, including craftspeople working in wood and leather shops, making the world’s finest cars. And just two robots in the paint shop to provide a seamless quality of finish. Only the finest materials are used and these are painstakingly prepared so their inherent beauty is displayed to best effect.

Rolls-Royce proudly continues the grand tradition started centuries ago by the coach-building industry: at least five layers of paint and clear lacquer coating are applied to each Phantom, seven if the car is two-tone. Between each layer technicians sand the body by hand. Following application of a final coat, the body is meticulously hand polished for five hours to achieve the glassy lustre normally associated with a grand piano.

Any chosen paint colour can be specified. Initially, this could be chosen by the client through the Phantom iPad App, capturing the colour of a favourite tie or lipstick for example and applying it to their virtual car.

In keeping with Rolls-Royce traditions single or double coach-lines can also be applied, by hand of course. Each five metre line takes three hours to apply using only the finest squirrel and ox hair brushes.

Wooden features blend the skills of cabinet makers and boat builders with modern technology. Depending on the specification, up to 43 wooden parts are used in every Phantom, each constructed from up to 28 layers of wood. These are interspersed with thin sheets of aluminium for strength and to prevent splintering in an impact. Multiple layers are pressed, bent and hand-finished before craftsmen cut and apply matched veneers, which are subsequently detailed, lacquered and hand polished.

All veneers come from one log and these are carefully selected and laid out so that the grain detailing is mirrored across the interior of each car.

Only the finest hand-selected hides from Alpine bulls are chosen for Rolls-Royce. The healthy environment and open meadows without thorn or barbed wire result in far fewer natural marks. The leather is drum pigmented to allow the durable Rolls-Royce leather to retain its famous soft and supple feel, giving a rich, uniform colour while maintaining the natural feel, softness and grain. Each of the 450 leather parts that comprise an interior is cut by laser before being hand sewn by the artisans in the company’s own workshop.

Rolls-Royce customers expect their cars to be as unique as their own fingerprint and the Bespoke service delivers on these high expectations. More than eight in ten Rolls-Royce Phantom models delivered globally to clients in 2011 included some element of bespoke design from individual paint colours, veneer inlays, tread plates and coach lines, to the most flamboyant and individual of whole vehicle designs.

One of the most popular Rolls-Royce bespoke features specified by Phantom Extended Wheelbase clients is the starlight headliner. This integrates more than 1,600 tiny fibre optic lights, which are hand-woven into the leather roof lining to create a beautiful starry sky.

GHOST SIX SENSES CONCEPT ELEVATES THE SPIRIT OF ECSTASY TO A NEW LEVEL OF SENSORY INDULGENCE

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars proudly presents the Ghost Six Senses concept, a highly-bespoke luxury model that encapsulates the richness of experience that comes as standard with any Rolls-Royce and takes it to a new level of sensory indulgence.

Approaching this luxurious Rolls-Royce and opening its coach doors immediately ignites the senses for sight, taste, touch, sound and aroma. And the sense of surprise and delight continues as guests encounter the lavish use of soft, sumptuous leathers, finest veneer detailing and special bespoke enhancements.

“The Ghost Six Senses concept is a luxurious environment designed for the most discerning of individuals,” commented Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce CEO. “It delights the senses and draws you into somewhere that transcends the interior of a car. Relax for a few moments and you will experience something that is hard to define, but which our customers understand so well.

“It can be likened to an aura, a sense that the stunning hand-made interior embodies something of the heart and soul of each proud craftsperson involved in its creation. That’s a uniquely Rolls-Royce sixth sense that this car presents so elegantly.”

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is the world’s leading luxury goods manufacturer. And while the world of luxury presents many objects of desire that captivate one or more senses, it takes one of these hand-built cars to awaken all five.

Sight

Beautiful and elegant, a Rolls-Royce Ghost is a sign of impeccable taste, a luxury car that is instantly pleasing to the eye. Ghost Six Senses’ pearlescent Carrara White finish complements new forged alloy wheels while eyes are immediately drawn to rich interior detailing upon entry through its coach doors. The deep lustre of the Walnut Burr veneer complete with diagonally-oriented, brown oak cross-banding, are designed to hint at the extraordinary power at the driver’s disposal.

Sound

For more than 100 years the sound of silence has driven the Rolls-Royce brand. But 21st century Ghost and Phantom models also present an auditorium in which the most advanced systems can deliver music in the most impressive fashion. The concept audio system in Ghost Six Senses richly fills the spacious rear cabin thanks to its upgraded amplifier and the inclusion of ‘exciter’ speakers housed in the leather headlining that help raise the centre of sound closer to a passenger’s ear.

Aroma

The finest interior materials create scents that are unique to Rolls-Royce. The rich aroma greeting Ghost Six Senses’ occupants comes from the most supple natural soft grain leather in enveloping, hand-crafted seats, as well as in the car’s leather headlining, with added hints of the woody spice in the walnut veneer.

Taste

Bathed in light from a panoramic sunroof, the rear cabin urges occupants to relax in style. For the ultimate taste experience the most refreshing chilled drinks or vintage champagne can be served from Ghost Six Senses’ coolbox, in flutes featuring a delightful sound-wave etching.

Touch

From cool chrome and sumptuous leather to the finest veneers, a Rolls-Royce is the most tactile way to travel in ultra-luxury. Ghost Six Senses takes this concept further with the inclusion of natural grain leather for the first time. Deep pile lambswool rugs encourage occupants to submerge feet, while opening the boot effortlessly with remote opener, reveals a further lambswool lining to cosset luxury bespoke luggage.

“Ghost Six Senses redefines a simple truth,” added Torsten Müller-Ötvös. “A Rolls-Royce is always so much more than the sum of its beautiful parts.”

ROLLS-ROYCE ACHIEVES IMPRESSIVE MIDDLE EAST SALES IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2012

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced today that the company has achieved a record first quarter in the Middle East, with sales increasing by 30 per cent regionally, compared with the same period in 2011. Saudi Arabia in particular has witnessed exceptional growth, with the UAE, Qatar, and other markets achieving healthy growth rates, fuelled by high market demand for Phantom and Ghost models.

This impressive performance can be attributed in part to the success of Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase models, supported by the personalisation possibilities available from the company’s Bespoke programme. Last year, Bespoke achieved its highest revenue per Ghost model in the Middle East to date, and customers in the region are regarded as the most prolific clients of the service. Two-tone, a bespoke Ghost option offered for the first time this year, complements the popularity of two-tone Phantom models. Additionally, nine out of 10 Phantom models that are delivered in the region contain an element of Bespoke.

Commenting on the strong results, James Crichton, Regional Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East, Africa and Latin America said: “These impressive results, both regionally and in individual markets, reflect the marque’s commitment to its customers and also highlights the level of luxury and personalised refinement that our customers strive for and demand.” He continued, “This has also been evident in the exciting response we have received for Phantom Series II, which was recently introduced in Geneva.”

Phantom Series II was launched in Geneva in March. The Phantom Series II family of cars – including Phantom Saloon, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé – have been thoughtfully updated with contemporary yet timeless design enhancements that frame the introduction of cutting-edge technologies which significantly improve the car’s drive-train, ease-of-use and connectivity. A striking new front-end design, complete with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light aperture, features full-LED headlamps as standard. New driver assistance technologies include a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controller. A new 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential further improve the Phantom’s signature waftability and perfectly complement the V12 direct injection engine. Fuel consumption improves by 10 per cent on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions for the Extended Wheelbase fall from 387 to 349 g/km as a consequence.

ROLLS-ROYCE STRENGTHENS NORTH AMERICAN COMMUNICATIONS TEAM WITH THE APPOINTMENT OF KRISTINA MARCHITTO

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is delighted to announce the appointment of Kristina Marchitto as Corporate Communications Manager for North America. Kristina reports directly to Richard Carter, Director of Global Communications.

An experienced PR professional with a track record in communications, Kristina will be based in the Rolls-Royce North America office in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. Her extensive communications portfolio includes segment producer credits for Fox Television News and more than six years working at the highest levels within a luxury lifestyle PR agency, based in New York.

“I am delighted to welcome Kristina Marchitto to our global communications team,” said Richard Carter. “Kristina joins us at an exciting time for Rolls-Royce, as we recently re-launched our pinnacle Phantom family of cars to wide acclaim. Her expertise and extensive contacts within luxury lifestyle media will complement and augment the excellent relations we already have with our colleagues in the North American automotive press.”

Kristina can be contacted on 001-201-307-4378 or by email at:

kristina.marchitto@rolls-roycemotorcars.com

ROLLS-ROYCE SUPPORTS YOUNG JOURNALIST TALENT

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was delighted to welcome aspiring young automotive journalist, Callum Jeffery, aged 11, to the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood.

Callum attends Trosnant Junior School in Havant, Hampshire and writes a regular automotive page – ‘Callum’s Cars’ – for his school newspaper, ‘The Trosnant Times’. Callum, a confirmed car fanatic from an early age, took the initiative to write to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, requesting an interview for the newspaper.

Callum spent a day touring the company’s head office and manufacturing plant, interviewing key Rolls‑Royce personnel across the business, including the Bespoke design team, product specialists, skilled craftsmen and women and, of course, the Rolls-Royce CEO. He was also able to see how the world’s leading super luxury cars are hand built, each to specific customer order.

Andrew Ball, Corporate Communications Manager and Callum’s host for the day, said, “It was a pleasure to meet Callum and I was impressed by his professionalism. He is undoubtedly a talented young man and I have no doubt that he has a bright future in the exciting world of automotive journalism.”

Rolls-Royce has a strong record of nurturing young talent, with industry-leading apprenticeship and graduate programmes and a successful industrial placement scheme. Potential candidates for all Rolls-Royce Motor Cars positions should apply online at:

www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/careers.

ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST RAISES THE TWO-TONE IN GENEVA

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

While the launch of Phantom Series II has been making headlines centre stage at the Geneva motor show, a very special Rolls-Royce Ghost has also been winning admirers in the company’s exclusive on-stand guest lounge. Clients, dealers and media guests have been delighted by the presentation of one of the first examples of a two-tone Rolls-Royce Ghost, a bespoke option offered for the first time this year, complementing the popularity of two-tone Phantom models.

Finished in Infinity Black, with a Cassiopeia Silver upper two-tone, the Geneva Ghost features an interior design scheme that perfectly reflects the two-tone theme. Seashell headlining and sumptuous black leather frames black stained ash veneer into which steel pinstripes have been carefully crafted. The final luxury touch is lambswool floor mats into which feet are easily lost at the end of a hard day walking the Geneva halls.

“Whether Ghost or Phantom, any Rolls-Royce is a work of art, taking its place in our clients’ luxury collections alongside yachts, helicopters and fine jewellery,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “So I am delighted that we are now able to offer two-tone options for Ghost as well as for Phantom, features that once again extend the palette upon which a Rolls-Royce masterpiece can be painted.”

A second upper two-tone Rolls-Royce Ghost has recently been commissioned for delivery to a client based in the Middle East. This striking colour scheme starts with Baynunah Brown, with Arizona Sun bathing the car’s bonnet, window surrounds, roof and luggage compartment. A gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy and double coach-line in gold finish the design.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars celebrated a record sales result in 2011 with 3,538 models delivered to clients worldwide, beating the previous sales record held in 1978 when 3,347 units were sold, a period during which Rolls-Royce was under different ownership. 2011 also marked a record for the Rolls-Royce Bespoke personalisation programme, a service with Rolls-Royce’s legendary hand-craftsmanship and attention to detail at its core. Nearly every Phantom family model leaving the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood came with some element of bespoke personalisation, from unique paint colours, interior detailing and embroidery, to exquisite whole vehicle designs including champagne sets, humidors and picnic sets

“TAKE THE BEST THAT EXISTS AND MAKE IT BETTER” PRESENTING THE ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM SERIES II

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

In the first half of the 20th century, Sir Henry Royce famously urged his employees to strive for perfection in all that they did – and “to take the best that exists and make it better”. Today Rolls-Royce Motor Cars continues to embrace the finest principles of its founding father by proudly presenting Phantom Series II at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Reflecting the new world in which we live, this pinnacle family of cars – including Phantom Saloon, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé – have been thoughtfully updated with contemporary yet timeless design enhancements that frame the introduction of cutting-edge technologies which significantly improve the car’s drive-train, ease-of-use and connectivity.

“From launch in 2003, the Rolls-Royce Phantom established itself as the benchmark in automotive luxury, a reputation it has held ever since,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “These cars are timeless in their appeal, but technology moves rapidly and we cannot afford to stand still.

“Today I am delighted to present Phantom Series II, a family of models that feature significant improvements in design, drive-train and technology. As a consequence of these changes, we will continue to present with pride the best motor cars in the world, which re-confirm Rolls-Royce’s position at the very pinnacle of the ultra-luxury goods marketplace.”

New LED lighting:
Rolls-Royce Director of Design, Ian Cameron, likens the evolution of Phantom Series II design to a “familiar theme, lit in a different way”. And Phantom’s striking new front-end, with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures, perhaps best encapsulates the essence of the significant changes that lie beneath.

Rolls-Royce is the first to include full LED headlamps as standard on a production car. As well as delivering a characteristic whiter light, augmenting safety and preventing driver tiredness, these allow for the introduction of new technologies that better control lighting.

Curve light functionality, for example, uses electronically-controlled reflectors to focus headlamp beams in the direction of travel, providing greater illumination of the road ahead when cornering. Adaptive headlamps change the cone of light projected onto a road – effortlessly of course – in response to different driving speeds.

Effortless as standard
Every part of the Phantom experience should be effortless, so new driver assistance technologies and a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controller have been introduced for Phantom Series II. The new satellite navigation system has been fully updated with functions that include 3D maps with landscape topography, guided tours and enhanced points of interest, as well as composite route planning.

Information, maps and video content are presented on Phantom’s larger 8.8 inch control centre display, a feature underlined by eight programmable bookmarks presenting access to key functions at a driver’s fingertips. Front, rear and top-view camera systems further augment ease of manoeuvring. When reverse parking, for example, rear path prediction automatically deploys on the screen.

Waftability and sublime ride
The word waftability has long been part of the Rolls-Royce lexicon, with models past and present being renowned for their magnificent ride experience. Phantom Series II reinforces the company’s reputation for both.

A new 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential enhance already exemplary driving dynamics perfectly complementing the V12 direct injection engine. Fuel consumption improves by 10 per cent on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions fall from 388 to 347 g/km as a consequence.

History
Rolls-Royce Phantom Series I was launched on 1 January 2003, following a five-year development phase, under new ownership of the BMW Group. In addition to bringing a flagship Rolls-Royce to life, the company also built its state-of-the-art headquarters and production site on the historic Goodwood estate, in the heart of the English countryside. This unprecedented achievement was all the more impressive for a brand that shouldered a weight of expectation that came with the famous Rolls-Royce name and Spirit of Ecstasy as its mascot of excellence.

In 2005, Rolls-Royce launched Extended Wheelbase to complement Phantom Saloon. This was followed by the launch of unforgettable open-top motoring courtesy of Phantom Drophead Coupé in 2007 and the ultimate grand tourer – Phantom Coupé – which was launched in 2008.

New family members have added to Phantom’s considerable appeal and position as a luxury good without equal.

ROLLS-ROYCE SEEKS NEW APPRENTICES TO JOIN SUPER-LUXURY SUCCESS STORY

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced that the company is seeking candidates for its Apprenticeship Programme. The successful applicants will join the programme at the end of August 2012, working alongside skilled craftspeople in leather, wood, paint, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, assembly and finesse roles.

The company’s Apprenticeship Programme was successfully launched in 2006 and provides people aged 16-24 with the opportunity to train with the Goodwood-based manufacturer of the world’s best-selling super-luxury cars. The apprenticeships last for up to four years and combine on-the-job training with studying for nationally recognised qualifications. The programme has been designed in conjunction with the Learning Skills Council (LSC) and Chichester and Northbrook colleges.

The selection process is designed to guarantee recruitment of the very best candidates who could have the opportunity to further grow with the company following a successful apprenticeship period. Since the programme’s launch in 2006, more than 30 young people have been employed following completion of their apprenticeship. In 2011, the programme was extended to the business areas and the first business apprentice was recruited.

“We are delighted to announce that Rolls-Royce is seeking candidates for its Apprenticeship Programme. This demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the development and training of young people at the very highest levels of UK manufacturing”, said Andrew Ball, Corporate Communications Manager, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, speaking at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) launch event for National Apprentice Week. “Our new apprentices will join the company at an exciting time, with Rolls-Royce having recently announced record sales in the company’s 107-year history.”

In addition to the Apprenticeship Programme, more than 50 young men and women were employed with the company in 2011 on industrial placements ranging in duration from six to twelve months; further positions are likely to be available this year. The company also runs a successful graduate programme, with new positions made available each year.

MORE ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST CLIENTS TURN TO BESPOKE PERSONALISATION

May 4th, 2012

RollsRoyceOwnersClub

More than half of clients who specified a Rolls-Royce Ghost in 2011 turned to bespoke personalisation. The service, which includes anything from the application of unique paint colours, coach lines and tread plates to whole vehicle designs featuring champagne sets, humidors and picnic cabinets, helped drive Rolls-Royce to record sales last year.

In total, 56% of Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase models sold around the world featured bespoke design in 2011.

The move to highly personalised Rolls-Royce Ghost models follows an increase in sales of bespoke Phantom family cars last year. More than eight in every ten Rolls-Royce Phantom models passed through the hands of the team’s designers and skilled craftspeople, before being delivered to a client. In some markets in the Middle East every Phantom featured bespoke content.

“It is always our goal to exceed our clients’ highest expectations and fulfill their innermost desires,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce CEO. “With highly bespoke Phantom and Ghost models, we are able to achieve this. The passion with which our bespoke craftspeople create these beautiful cars is reflected in some truly outstanding examples delivered across the globe last year.”

The proportion of Phantom family cars with bespoke content delivered to Middle Eastern clients rose from 75% in 2005 to 99% last year, while in Europe the figure increased from 50% to 89%. In North America it rose from 30% to 84% over the same period and in Asia Pacific from 50% to 79%. In the United Kingdom, the third largest single market for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, the proportion of Phantom family cars featuring bespoke content increased from 60% to 88%.

In August 2011 Rolls-Royce announced an expansion of its bespoke operation to meet growing demand, doubling the number of bespoke experts working at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood by the end of the year. The company is also about to expand its manufacturing facility, partly due to the increase in demand for bespoke cars. Work will begin next month.