As of now, Rolls-Royce has not explicitly announced plans to discontinue its iconic V12 engines, but several factors indicate that the brand will likely transition away from them in the future as part of its broader shift towards electrification and sustainability.

Key Points Regarding Rolls-Royce’s V12 Engine Future:

1. Electrification Shift:

Rolls-Royce has committed to becoming fully electric by 2030, which means that internal combustion engines (ICE), including the V12, are expected to be gradually phased out in favor of electric drivetrains. This shift is part of the brand's broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions while delivering the same levels of performance, luxury, and refinement.

• The Rolls-Royce Spectre, an all-electric coupe set to be released in 2023, marks the first step in the company’s transition to fully electric vehicles, and other models, including the Cullinan SUV and the Phantom, are expected to follow suit with electric versions.
• Electric V12 Alternatives: In place of the V12, Rolls-Royce will likely introduce electric motors that offer instant torque and unmatched refinement. These electric drivetrains could deliver even smoother performance, aligning with Rolls-Royce's emphasis on comfort and luxury.

2. V12 Engines in Current Models:

Rolls-Royce's V12 engines continue to be an essential part of the brand’s current lineup, including in models like the Phantom, Cullinan, and Wraith. The V12 engine is widely recognized for its smoothness, power, and silence, which are key characteristics that define the Rolls-Royce driving experience.

• The V12 engine offers refinement and power delivery that is hard to replicate with smaller engines. This allows Rolls-Royce cars to perform effortlessly, even in larger and heavier models, while maintaining a level of luxury and comfort that is unparalleled.

3. Performance Considerations:

• The V12 engine has been a hallmark of Rolls-Royce’s performance and luxury. Its sheer power and smoothness align with the brand’s ethos of effortless performance. Rolls-Royce is unlikely to forgo performance entirely; rather, it will seek new ways to deliver the same or even greater levels of performance using electric motors that can offer instantaneous power without compromising refinement.
• Electric motors offer advantages over traditional engines in that they deliver maximum torque from the very first revolution, making them ideal for the smooth and powerful driving experience that Rolls-Royce is known for.

4. V12’s Legacy and Emotional Appeal:

The V12 engine has an emotional appeal, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its engineering and refinement. Rolls-Royce has built a legacy around producing some of the most iconic V12-powered luxury vehicles, and they are likely to continue producing and selling V12-powered models for some time before fully transitioning to electric powertrains.

• However, as the automotive industry moves toward electrification, it is unlikely that Rolls-Royce will continue to produce traditional V12 engines beyond a certain point. The brand is focused on adapting to the changing demands of the luxury car market and environmental sustainability while keeping its reputation for performance and luxury intact.

5. Phasing Out V12 Engines:

Rolls-Royce is known for taking a careful approach to change, so the transition away from V12 engines will likely be gradual. The company might continue to offer V12-powered cars alongside electric models for some time to cater to buyers who still value the V12 experience, while simultaneously preparing its lineup for a fully electric future.

Conclusion:

While Rolls-Royce will likely continue producing V12 engines for the immediate future in models like the Cullinan and Phantom, the company is firmly committed to a fully electric future by 2030. As a result, we can expect the V12 to be phased out over the next decade in favor of electric drivetrains that can meet the performance and luxury expectations of Rolls-Royce customers while also aligning with the brand's sustainability goals. The transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles will mark the next chapter in Rolls-Royce's commitment to effortless power and refined luxury.