A new Rolls-Royce showroom was officially opened today in St Petersburg by Ian Robertson, the Chairman and CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. This is the second Rolls-Royce showroom in Russia, reflecting the importance of the Russian market to the continued development of Rolls-Royce in Europe.

The grand opening was marked by a cannon shot from the Petropavlovskaya fortress; a tradition to signal the most important events which take place in the city.

Ian Robertson said, “We are delighted to open for business in St. Petersburg, with this outstanding new showroom. Russia is a very important market for Rolls-Royce in continental Europe and we anticipate further growth, making it a key part of our future development plans.” He added, “Our dealer in Russia has many years experience in the luxury car segment in Moscow and so is uniquely positioned to provide a perfect service for our discerning clientele in St. Petersburg as well”.

The addition of this new showroom in St. Petersburg brings the total number in continental Europe to 19.

In 2007, Rolls-Royce will have a three model line-up, with the new convertible, the Phantom Drophead Coupé, set to join the two four-door models in Russia in the 4th quarter of 2007. The Phantom remains the best-selling super luxury car in the world, with sales in 2006 at a 16-year-high. A new Rolls-Royce model, priced slightly below the Phantom, will be launched around the turn of the decade.