Despite the automotive world’s accelerating shift to electric vehicles, Rolls-Royce will keep producing its legendary V12 engines beyond 2030. The luxury marque has softened its earlier commitment to go fully electric by that year, revealing strong demand for large-displacement combustion engines and eased emissions regulations have persuaded the company to extend the life of its twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V12, internally known as the N74.
Initially introduced in 2008, the N74 powers Rolls-Royce’s flagship lineup-the Ghost, Cullinan, and Phantom-and remains a hallmark of the brand’s heritage. Recent tweaks have brought the venerable engine up to speed with the stringent Euro 7 emissions requirements, ensuring compliance without compromising the uniquely smooth and powerful driving experience Rolls-Royce clients expect. This reversal comes after former CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös had pledged a full electric vehicle (EV) transition by 2030, a stance now reconsidered by his successor, Chris Brownridge.
In an interview, Brownridge emphasized the diversity of customer preferences, stating, ”For every client that loves an electric vehicle, there is one who does not. We recognize some clients would rather have a V12 engine. The V12 is part of our history.” This shift also recognizes that the original decision to discontinue internal combustion engine (ICE) models was based on circumstances that have evolved significantly.
Market data supports the decision: Rolls-Royce’s 2025 sales were still dominated by V12 models. The Cullinan alone accounted for nearly 60% of total deliveries, with 3,291 units sold. While the electric Spectre coupe managed just over 1,000 units, slipping behind the Ghost, its sales declined 47% compared to the previous year. Clearly, while electrification is growing, the ultra-luxury clientele remains attached to the traditional power and character of the V12 engine.
BMW Group, which manufactures the V12 engine at its Hams Hall plant in the UK, celebrates the plant’s 25th anniversary this year. This engine remains exclusive to Rolls-Royce, with no plans to bring it back to BMW’s 7 Series facelift, the upcoming ALPINA G72, or the next-generation X7 derivatives. Those models will focus on inline-sixes, V8s, and, increasingly, electrified powertrains.
Rolls-Royce’s willingness to maintain the N74 well into the next decade highlights the niche but resilient market for ultra-premium combustion engines. While many luxury brands push aggressively toward electrification, Rolls-Royce illustrates that for a segment of buyers, tradition and the magic of a V12 engine remain irreplaceable.