The brand hasn't operated independently since 2003. That was the year that BMW Group purchased full control of the automaker. While this hadn't affected business much, CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös told Go Auto that the company "would never exist anymore" without them. BMW provided valuable support when it came to regulatory requirements, technical systems, and other under the hood help.
Müller-Ötvös when on to clarify that, even though they had BLW's support, a Rolls-Royce vehicle retains its unique engineering and design. The two companies use separate power trains, for example.
They're also not following the same business ideals. BMW is one of the biggest promoters of autonomous and electric technology. Meanwhile, both ideas have taken a backseat among the Rolls-Royce planning team. Müller-Ötvös stated that he considers the brand a "follower" with the technology. He expects that the company will only start investing in the ideas after they become more commonplace.
"we are not selling a car here: we are selling a luxury good."
At the end of the day, I still can't afford a Rolls-Royce.
