We have a good future potential in India

Rolls-Royce considers India a strategic market and will look to expand its dealer network as demand picks up in certain regions.

- Smita Tripathi

Nothing spells luxury like the Rolls-Royce. India has had a long association with the luxury vehicle as it has been the car of choice for the Indian Maharajas. Timelessness and exclusivity are trademarks of a true luxury brand, and Rolls Royce epitomises both. Only 3,785 completely hand-built cars were sold across the globe in 2015, which is the second-highest sale in the company’s 112-year-old history. This year, sales are expected to rise worldwide, with the first two quarters accounting for 1,684 units. Asia Pacific is the largest growth region, and it grew 13 per cent in 2015. Rolls-Royce recently launched the Dawn in Chennai. Sven J. Ritter, regional sales manager, Asia Pacific, Rolls- Royce Motor Cars, discussed as to why India is an important market for the company, how the brand is becoming more contemporary and what makes them unique. Excerpts:

How important is India as a market?

In the Asia-Pacific, India is a strategic market, where we have seen standard growth in the past few years and we have a good future potential here. South India is the biggest growing region for us

In 2004, our first dealership was opened in Delhi, and then in Mumbai, where we launched the Phantom. Since then, we have added Ghost, Wraith and now the Dawn.

Globally, the US is our largest market. In Asia, it’s China, and then Japan. But if you don’t include China, then India is one of the top five markets in the Asia-Pacific.

Who is your target customer here?