In Conversation with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars: Exclusive

Today is a big day for Rolls-Royce and the Indian car market with the launch of the Phantom Series II. We took this opportunity to have a conversation with the Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Mumbai, Sharad Kachalia on their plans globally and in India along with a few words on the Phantom Series II.

1. Rolls-Royce has been a symbol of prestige and is known for pristine cars, how does the new Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II take this legacy forward?

With the new Phantom Series II, Rolls-Royce has brought in a new design element yet they have kept the ever so popular and loved Phantom family alive by retaining the basics. Sharad Kachalia said, “The Phantom is already a well known car and the Series II will take its legacy forward and in a big way.” With the new technologies like the Adaptive headlamps, new all LED headlamps, and the BMW sourced 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox etc. the new car already states that Rolls- Royce is set to take one step ahead with their already almost perfect products. Seems like Sir Henry Royce quote, “to take the best that exists and make it better” is taken seriously even now.

2. What importance does the Indian car market hold for Rolls-Royce?

Mr. Kachalia stated that the Indian car market has been very important for Rolls-Royce since the days of Maharajas and even now Rolls-Royce sees the current buyers as the current Maharajas. With the first ever presentation of the Phantom Series II in India, it seems Rolls-Royce is ready to establish a personal relationship with its Indian audience.

3. With Maybach out of business, Rolls-Royce will definitely want its share of the market. What is Rolls-Royce planning to do to be able to fulfill that?

Without disclosing any details, Mr. Kachalia said that “Maybach has been knocked out and Rolls- Royce is the only player left, which says a lot about the company and its products.”

4. The recent slump in the auto industry has it affected everyone present here. What do you as a Super Premium Car Co have to say?

“The recent slump in Indian car sales has no significance to Rolls-Royce as its buyers are a different class of people.” said Sharad Kachalia.

5. Who does Rolls-Royce see as a threat/potential threat in India?

Mr. Kachalia answered to this question, stating that Rolls- Royce, as a brand sees no other as a threat or a potential threat. It is a well established fact that this segment is ruled by customers who are brand loyalist and we can safely say that Rolls-Royce, with its 108 year old legacy does have a very special and specific responsive target audience.

6. What are the near future plans for Rolls- Royce in India?

Mr. Sharad disclosed that Rolls-Royce is planning for two more dealerships in India which will also be owned by Navnit Motors. The first of these will open in Ahmadabad within the next four months followed by a dealership in Pune.

And before we call it a wrap on this launch today, we also have the glimpse of the launch event for you, straight from the Grand Hyatt, Mumbai.