Rolls-Royce engineers record car sales

Rolls-Royce reported record sales in the first half of the year, helped by Chinese buyers.

Sales worldwide in the first six months increased by 33% compared with the January to June period in 2013, with strong growth in Asia Pacific (up nearly 40%) and in the Middle East (up by more than 30%).

Rolls-Royce, which is owned by the German carmaker BMW, said demand had been strong for the Wraith, a chunky, gas-guzzling two-door car priced at more than £210,000. It also reported strong orders for the Ghost series II, an updated version of its "entry-level" saloon car that arrives at dealers later this year, and "good demand" for the Phantom, a top-range model that sells for up to £360,000.

In Europe, demand for Rolls-Royce cars rose by more than 60%, with sales doubling in Germany. The US also recorded double-digit growth.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars chief executive, Torsten Müller-Otvös, said: "This is an excellent half-year result and demonstrates the continued confidence that our customers have in our company and our fine cars. We are on target for another record year in 2014."

The BMW Group also reported strong sales for BMW and Mini cars around the world. Combined sales were up 18% in Asia, 5% in the US and 2% in Europe, helping the group to sell a record-breaking 1m-plus cars in the first half of 2014.