Rolls-Royce to expand Goodwood HQ as demand for bespoke cars grows

But making individually tailored cars, while profitable, is a labour-intensive process that requires time and space. At the same time, like other manufacturers the company is preparing for a future in which conventional cars will be phased out and replaced by electric models.

Rolls-Royce said the extension of its factory would “create additional space for the increasingly complex and high value bespoke and coachbuild projects sought by clients who define luxury as something deeply personal to them”.

It added that the plan would “also ready the manufacturing facility for the marque’s transition to an all-battery electric vehicle future”.

The carmaker has already been granted planning permission for the expansion of the Goodwood plant, which was built in 2003 and initially housed 300 workers. There are currently more than 2,500 people working on the site.

“This represents our most substantial financial commitment to Goodwood since its opening,” said the Rolls Royce chief executive, Chris Brownridge.

“It is a significant vote of confidence in the Rolls-Royce marque, securing our future in the UK,” he added.