But before you assume this is just another high-gloss press release from the House of Flying Spur Envy, let’s ask what matters: Is this the start of something revolutionary—or simply a monument to opulence?

What’s new at Goodwood?

Let’s begin with the headline. Rolls-Royce is injecting more than £300 million into its Goodwood manufacturing facility—the largest investment since its doors opened in 2003. Back then, the factory had a modest staff of 300 and produced one car a day. Today? The workforce has swelled to over 2,500, churning out up to 28 hand-built vehicles daily. That’s not mass production—it’s precision craftsmanship with a payroll.

This isn’t just about building more cars. It’s about building more Rolls-Royces. The expansion will allow for even more elaborate Bespoke and Coachbuild commissions—think gold-threaded ceiling embroidery or a droptail rear deck designed to match your yacht.

Yes, really.

Why now?

You might be wondering: is this the best time to make such a lavish investment?

In 2024, Rolls-Royce delivered 5,712 vehicles globally—its third-best year on record. But here’s the kicker: Bespoke content value per vehicle rose 10% year-over-year. In plain English, customers spent more per car than ever before, and they’re not just choosing leather shades—they’re commissioning one-off artwork.

The Phantom Extended alone saw the highest level of Bespoke orders in company history. In other words, the well-heeled aren’t just back—they’re bored of the Bentley and craving the couture.

Is this about EVs?

Yes. And no.

The expanded Goodwood facility is being retooled with full electrification in mind, prepping for future battery-electric vehicles. But Rolls-Royce, ever the dandy in a world of joggers, isn’t diving in with a shout. It’s gliding into EVs with the Spectre, which in 2024 became the second-most requested model globally and the most in Europe.

This isn’t just a Tesla-fighter. It’s an Aston-Martin silencer. A Lucid humbler. A statement that luxury doesn’t have to be loud—though it certainly helps if it’s weighty, gilded, and silent as a confession booth.

Who’s buying all of this?

Surprisingly (or perhaps not), the answer is: everyone with taste and no budget cap. North America remained Rolls-Royce’s largest market by volume, with Europe, the Middle East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific all setting new records.

Emerging markets like Malaysia, Thailand, and the Netherlands posted explosive growth, while stalwart markets like the UAE, Germany, and Japan saw unprecedented demand for Bespoke.

The Middle East took the lead in highest average spend per car, proving that if you have oil, you might as well have a vehicle with 18-carat gold bonnet trim.

What is the client experience like now?

In a world where customer service has been reduced to chatbots and “please hold” loops, Rolls-Royce has gone in the opposite direction: Private Offices. These ultra-exclusive commissioning salons expanded in 2024 to five global locations, including Seoul and New York. Clients enter with a concept, and leave with a car that can’t be replicated—unless, of course, they own the patent.

Private Office commissions command a 25% premium over even standard Bespoke orders. But they come with a sense of theatricality that makes shopping at Harrods feel like a trip to the corner shop.

Even the brand’s Whispers app—its members-only digital concierge—saw a 55% increase in 2024. It’s Uber Black meets MI6, with fewer wait times and considerably better tailoring.

So, is this just a celebration of excess?

Not entirely.

Rolls-Royce isn’t simply building cars. It’s crafting cultural artifacts—each with its own VIN and provenance. The 2024 Arcadia Droptail Coachbuild commission was less a car, more a rolling sculpture. Rolls is doubling down on rarity, not reach.

With the Phantom approaching its centenary in 2025, this expansion underscores a broader mission: to preserve the soul of motoring while future-proofing the art form. In a time when cars are trying to be smartphones on wheels, Rolls-Royce is insisting that luxury still has a place in the garage—and it doesn’t need a subscription fee.

Enjoyed this article? Stay in the driver’s seat with more automotive insights! Follow @NikJMiles and @TestMiles on social media for the latest news, reviews, and behind-the-scenes exclusives. Don’t miss out—join the conversation today!

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In the increasingly bizarre chess match of international tariffs, the automotive industry is again caught in the crossfire. President Donald Trump has hinted at reinstating steep tariffs on imported vehicles​ and parts ​i​n 90 days—and that move, if implemented, could send shockwaves through Detroit and beyond.

The problem? Some of America’s most “American” vehicles aren’t actually built in America.

Let’s start with a shocker.

Isn’t the Dodge Charger Daytona EV American?

Not exactly. The Charger Daytona—the bold new EV that Dodge swears is the spiritual successor to the Hellcat—isn’t being born in Michigan. It’s being built in Windsor, Ontario. Canada. That’s right. The muscle car of the electric future might be taxed like a foreign luxury sedan, which, in practical terms, means American buyers could end up paying Porsche prices for a Dodge.

How bad could it get?

Try $75,000 for a base model. And the high-performance Scat Pack version? That could swell to nearly $94,000—more than the final, fire-breathing V8-powered Charger Hellcat ever cost. This is no longer speed for the masses; it’s speed for the mildly wealthy.

And that price jump isn’t just a sticker shock. It’s a cultural crisis.

Muscle cars have always thrived on democratic horsepower—raw speed without the Range Rover badge. If tariffs return, they could sabotage what the Charger Daytona EV stands for: American muscle, electrified for everyone.

But isn’t it just one car?

If only. The Ford Bronco Sport? Made in Mexico. GMC Sierra? Also built south of the border. The Mustang GTD—Ford’s glorious, track-focused answer to German sports cars—is assembled in Canada. In all, dozens of models are suddenly at risk of being priced out of the market, not because buyers don’t want them, but because a 25% tariff would make them financially irrational.

Why not just build them in the U.S.?

Easier said than done. Automakers like Stellantis (which owns Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and more) do have U.S. factories, but reshuffling supply chains isn’t like rearranging IKEA furniture. It would take billions of dollars, years of lead time, and untold headaches to retool operations and avoid tariff exposure. And frankly, they might just decide it’s not worth it.

So​, what makes the Daytona EV so special?

It’s fast—really fast. 670 horsepower. 0–60 in 3.3 seconds. And it has a 600-watt synthetic exhaust system that growls like a T-Rex with Bluetooth. Yes, it’s fake sound. But somehow, it works. More importantly, this EV has a rare trait in the electric world: honesty.

During my drive, for every mile I traveled, the range dropped by exactly one mile. No EV range anxiety, no inflated estimates, no fine print. Just raw accuracy.

It’s the first time I’ve driven an electric car that behaves like an internal combustion vehicle—predictable, tactile, and surprisingly emotional.

But will people pay that much for a Dodge?

That’s the multi-billion-dollar question. Dodge fans don’t just want speed—they want value. The brand’s entire identity is built on affordable horsepower. At nearly $100K, the Charger Daytona loses that magic.

Even worse, if this EV flops, it could send the wrong message to other automakers: muscle cars don’t sell, EVs are a gamble, and maybe we should all just build another crossover. Yawn.

Is this just political theatre, or should we worry?

The threat is very real. Tariffs are like bad sequels—just when you think they’re over, they come back with worse dialogue and higher costs. And if they do return, automakers will face a harsh choice: absorb the cost, raise prices, or cancel the models altogether.

The Charger Daytona EV isn’t just a car. It’s a litmus test. Can American automakers make electric vehicles exciting, accessible, and profitable? Or will protectionist policies price innovation out of reach?

Final thoughts?

Some say the Charger Daytona EV is sacrilege—a muscle car without muscle. I disagree. It’s one of the best EVs I’ve ever driven. A genuine thrill ride, with the soul of Detroit and the specs of Silicon Valley.

But it’s hanging by a thread. If tariffs return, this car—along with others like it—could vanish before it even hits showroom floors.

And that would be a loss not just for Dodge fans, but for anyone who believes driving should still be fun.

The post These Cars Could Vanish If Tariffs Hit Again appeared first on ROI TV.

What distinguishes the Spectre in the Rolls-Royce lineage?

At first glance, the Spectre asserts its presence with the largest Pantheon grille ever crafted by Rolls-Royce. Flanking this imposing grille are the most expansive doors the marque has produced, ensuring an entrance as grand as the vehicle itself. Yet, beyond these dimensions, the Spectre remains quintessentially a Rolls-Royce—handcrafted with meticulous precision at the Goodwood facility. The transition to electric power is but a footnote; the essence of luxury and craftsmanship remains uncompromised.​

How does the Spectre’s interior reflect bespoke craftsmanship?

Stepping inside, one is enveloped in an ambiance that showcases the pinnacle of bespoke artistry. The Iceland Moss green accents harmoniously contrast with black open-pore wood inlays, offering a tactile and visual feast. Rolls-Royce’s bespoke program allows patrons to infuse personal touches—be it matching the interior to a cherished hue or even the shade of a beloved pet’s fur. This level of personalization transforms the Spectre from a mere vehicle to an intimate extension of one’s identity.​

What performance capabilities does the Spectre offer?

Beneath its elegant facade, the Spectre houses an electric powertrain capable of delivering approximately 266 miles on a single charge. While some may raise an eyebrow at this range in today’s EV landscape, it’s essential to recognize that the Spectre isn’t about numbers; it’s about the experience. The seamless acceleration, whisper-quiet cabin, and the signature ‘magic carpet ride’ ensure that every journey is both serene and exhilarating.​

Does the Spectre signify a shift in Rolls-Royce’s brand identity?

Some traditionalists might argue that electrification could dilute the brand’s heritage. However, the Spectre challenges this notion. It embodies the evolution of luxury, where sustainability meets opulence. The electric drivetrain enhances the driving experience, offering instantaneous torque and unparalleled smoothness. In essence, the Spectre is a Rolls-Royce first and an electric vehicle second.​

Is the Spectre a prudent investment?

With a price tag hovering around $450,000 to $500,000, the Spectre positions itself in the upper echelons of the luxury market. However, considering Rolls-Royce’s standing as not just the premier luxury car brand but arguably the pinnacle of luxury brands globally, the Spectre offers more than just transportation. It provides an unparalleled blend of heritage, innovation, and personalization. For those with the means, it’s not merely a purchase but an acquisition of a legacy.​

How does the Spectre drive?

Behind the wheel, the Spectre delivers an experience that is both familiar and revolutionary. The hallmark serenity of a Rolls-Royce cabin is elevated by the absence of an internal combustion engine. The immediate power delivery ensures effortless acceleration, making every drive a testament to the harmonious marriage of tradition and technology.​

What does the Spectre signify for the future of luxury automobiles?

The introduction of the Spectre marks a pivotal moment in automotive history. It signifies that sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive. As the automotive industry gravitates towards electrification, the Spectre sets a benchmark, illustrating that it’s possible to embrace modernity without forsaking heritage. It challenges other luxury marques to elevate their offerings, ensuring that the essence of luxury evolves with the times.​

In conclusion, the Rolls-Royce Spectre isn’t just a car; it’s a statement. A statement that luxury, sustainability, and personalization can coexist harmoniously. It invites discerning individuals to not just witness the future but to drive it. And as I reflect on those childhood memories of the Tower of London, it’s evident that the Spectre, much like the crown jewels, is destined to become a timeless icon.​

The post This $500K Rolls-Royce EV Feels Like Pure Magic appeared first on ROI TV.

What’s the Big Deal?

This merger could create the world’s third-largest automaker, with combined resources to dominate the EV market. Honda and Nissan hope to outpace rising Chinese brands like BYD and Nio.

Why Now?

Two significant factors are at play: China’s dominance and the need for scale. Let’s examine each one.

China’s Dominance

Thanks to cutting-edge EV technology and software innovation, China has overtaken Japan as the world’s largest auto exporter. Honda and Nissan? They need a united front to stay relevant.

The Need for Scale

In the U.S., Nissan is losing ground, and Honda’s reputation isn’t bulletproof. Their answer? Team up to create possible cars like the RoLine, which would blend the Nissan Rogue and Honda CR-V.

What’s in It for You?

Pooling resources could save billions, boosting efficiency in everything from EV production to R&D. However, success isn’t guaranteed—look at DaimlerChrysler’s failed attempt at synergy.

The EV Challenge

Neither automaker has genuinely cracked the EV market. Who knows? We could see cars like the Leafsight, a potential merger of the Nissan Leaf and Honda Insight, combining eco-friendliness with cutting-edge hybrid tech.

Beyond the Numbers

Numbers don’t tell the whole story. What about vision? Let’s look at the vehicles they’re planning.

Future-Ready Ecosystem

Beyond EVs, Honda and Nissan aim to create a future-ready ecosystem with autonomous driving, AI integration, and possible models like the CivicZ—a sporty yet practical hybrid coupe combining the Nissan Z with the Honda Civic.

More Choices for You

And for you? More choices, like the possible rugged Pathline, merging Nissan Pathfinder capability with Honda Ridgeline versatility.

The Road Ahead

The merger’s success hinges on synergy. If Honda and Nissan can harmonize operations and cultures, vehicles like the AltAccord could dominate their segments.

Is This a Revolution or a Gamble?

So, is this the start of something revolutionary or another corporate gamble? Time—and the road ahead—will tell.

Betting Big on the Future

From EV innovations to bold new designs, Honda and Nissan are betting big. Whether it’s Leafsight for sustainability or the Pathline for adventure, the future of these combined brands could redefine the way we drive.

You can follow Nik Miles for more insights and updates on the automotive industry.

NIK Miles

Auto Reporter/Influencer

The post Honda and Nissan Are Teaming Up—Here’s How It Could Revolutionize Your Next Car appeared first on ROI TV.

Political Polarization on the Decline

Recent research by AutoPacific reveals that only 8% of EV rejectors now cite political beliefs as their main reason, a decrease from 10% in 2023. This shift signals a move toward practicality over politics among American car buyers, as considerations of cost, infrastructure, and convenience become more influential.

Elon Musk: A Catalyst for the GOP’s EV Interest?

Elon Musk’s endorsement of the GOP in the 2024 election has potentially reshaped Republican views on EVs, especially given his status as the face of Tesla. His influence may play a crucial role in encouraging right-leaning consumers to embrace electric vehicles, bridging the traditional political gap in the automotive space.

A More Politically Diverse EV Market

AutoPacific’s study shows that 46% of prospective EV buyers are Democrats, 28% are Republicans, and 24% are Independents or third-party affiliates. This balanced interest suggests that EVs are moving beyond political identities, attracting a wider array of consumers from across the political spectrum.

Current EV Ownership Trends

The data reveals that 54% of current EV owners identify as Democrats, with 30% identifying as Republicans. For plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) owners, 60% are Democrats and 26% are Republicans. These numbers highlight a shift toward more diverse political representation within the EV community, reflecting the expanding appeal of EVs beyond traditional demographics.

The Real Roadblocks: Cost and Charging Infrastructure

While political reasons for rejecting EVs are diminishing, practical concerns remain. Charging infrastructure and vehicle costs are the primary obstacles for consumers. This underscores the ongoing need for expanded charging networks and affordable EV options to make electric vehicles accessible to a broader audience.

AutoPacific’s Study: An In-Depth Analysis

AutoPacific’s comprehensive study, conducted in June 2024 with over 12,000 respondents, examined EV adoption, reasons for rejection, ownership experiences, and attitudes on topics from cost to environmental concerns. With its longstanding reputation in the automotive industry, AutoPacific provides valuable insights for understanding EV trends.

A Bipartisan Future for EVs?

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, EVs are at a critical juncture, possibly entering a new era of bipartisan appeal. The data points to a future where EV adoption transcends political lines, appealing to consumers who prioritize innovation, sustainability, and practicality. With influencers like Elon Musk leading the charge, EVs may soon become a shared aspiration across the political spectrum.

So, whether you’re a Democrat, Republican, or Independent, the time to consider an EV might be now. After all, when it comes to the future of mobility, we’re all in this together—charging toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The post Electric Avenue: Are EVs Finally Crossing the Political Divide? appeared first on ROI TV.

The Numbers That Matter: Horsepower, Range, and Bono

Let’s start with the bits that make car enthusiasts perk up: under the diminutive bonnet, the Fiat 500e hides a 117-horsepower motor that delivers 162 lb-ft of torque. If that sounds modest, it’s because it is. The 500e will whisk you from 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds—just enough time to finish humming along to “The Sound of 500,” the car’s acoustic melody composed by an Italian maestro. Yes, you read that right: Fiat decided this EV needed a bespoke soundtrack, audible as it accelerates to 20 mph, because why not? Italians know a thing or two about flair, after all. And speaking of flair, the (RED) edition trim involves none other than Bono from U2. Apparently, if you can’t impress with speed, distract with celebrity.

Range Anxiety, Anyone?

With a 42-kWh battery pack, the 500e offers a range of—brace yourself—149 miles. If you’re reading this in Los Angeles, you’re probably scoffing at the thought of not making it from Santa Monica to Glendale and back without a charge. However, Fiat insists this compact EV is designed for the urban jungle, where parking spaces are tighter than your favorite jeans post-lockdown. It’s not about distance, darling; it’s about style. To preserve what little range you have, the 500e comes with three drive modes: Normal, Range, and Sherpa. Yes, Sherpa. Named after the Himalayan guides, this mode caps your speed at 50 mph and switches off the heated seats as if you’re about to ascend Everest on a single charge.

Driving Fun, but at a Cost

Despite its humble power figures, the 500e is light on its feet, weighing just under 3,000 pounds. It’s agile, and with its regenerative braking in Range mode, you can achieve one-pedal driving, adding to the fun factor as you dart through city traffic. The suspension, however, is less forgiving—expect to feel every pothole like an Italian soap opera scene. Fiat has opted for Goodyear summer tires or Pirelli all-seasons on glossy black 17-inch aluminum wheels, but that’s small comfort when your spine’s absorbing the jolts of imperfect roads.

Tech and Features for the City Slicker

Tech-savvy urbanites will appreciate the standard equipment: a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Oh, and Amazon Alexa integration, because you simply must order that artisanal coffee while en route to your local farmer’s market. There’s even a home charger box or charging credits through Free2move thrown in to sweeten the deal.

Inside, the Fiat’s redesigned interior adds more storage to the console and door panels, a welcome upgrade for anyone who’s ever struggled to find a place to stash their oat milk latte. The climate control system also includes preconditioning so you can set the perfect temperature before hopping in. Who needs to feel the weather outside when you can create your own?

Final Thoughts: A Marmite Situation

The 2024 Fiat 500e, with its cheeky Italian attitude, is the very definition of a Marmite car—you’ll either adore it for its quirky charm or find it about as useful as a chocolate teapot when it comes to range. Sure, it lacks the power and speed of competitors like the Hyundai Kona Electric, but the Fiat 500e is clearly playing a different game. It’s not here to dominate highways; it’s here to turn heads in the city, making even the simplest errand feel like a European holiday.

Just be prepared to charge it often, or risk feeling like Bono’s less famous roadie—stuck in the background while others cruise ahead. Still, with its fun handling, tech-laden cabin, and a smattering of celebrity glitz, the Fiat 500e is as much a conversation piece as it is a car. Just don’t plan on driving it to your countryside estate anytime soon.Nik J MilesEverything You Need To Knowliinks.co/testmiles

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