Rolls-Royce Considering Plug-in Hybrid Model
As emissions regulations worldwide continue to become more strict, even luxury automakers such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley are turning towards plug-in hybrid models.
According to Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos, we shouldn’t be surprised to see a Rolls-Royce plug-in hybrid model in the near future. The CEO acknowledges that such a model isn’t essential in terms of consumer demand, but rather legal regulation on emissions.
SEE ALSO: Bentley to Offer Plug-In Hybrids Across Model Range
With massive models like the Phantom delivering only 11 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, it’s almost no surprise that Rolls-Royce has to find a way to increase that fleet fuel economy figure. Previously, the British automaker unveiled a 102EX Phantom concept that was a pure electric vehicle, but the response was underwhelming at best. But while an EV surely didn’t seem compatible with the ultra-luxury brand, a plug-in hybrid makes sense in today’s world. The brand could also turn towards parent company BMW and its hybrid technology, especially through its i sub-brand that has developed the i3 and i8.
[Source: The Detroit Bureau]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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