Rolls-Royce Embracing Hybrid Options

Rolls-Royce will turn to hybrid technology to remain relevant in a marketplace demanding stricter emissions standards, according to Asia-Pacific regional director, Paul Harris.

Speaking with TMR, Mr Harris said that while the carmaker's fuel use has improved immensely with the introduction of the Ghost and Phantom Series II, government pressure will force the introduction of alternative drivetrains.

“The biggest challenge for the brand is ‘is it socially acceptable to be seen driving a Rolls-Royce’? We’ll have to look at alternative drivetrains, possibly hybrid technology,” Mr Harris said.

He noted that diesel power, while fuel efficient, isn’t where the brand is heading, and that the push toward a hybrid-style car came through a study of the feedback from the 102EX full-electric Phantom concept.

“The 102EX was very polarising. Existing Rolls-Royce fans are V12 petrolheads, but journalists and customers new to the brand loved the electric experience," Mr Harris said.

"Phantom usage is usually short distance, which suits an electric car, but in some countries, such as Singapore, there’s no solid infrastructure for recharging.”