ANOTHER sumptuous new Rolls-Royce made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, even though the company producing it is soon to lose the manufacturing rights. To further confuse circumstances, a decision has still to be made on the future of the models after BMW takes ownership of Rolls-Royce at the end of 2002, chief executive Tony Gott revealed.

Gott said it would be autumn before the Volkswagen-owned company decided if it wanted to continue building the current range from 2003. 'Much as we are unhappy at the prospect of Rolls-Royce leaving its traditional home, it is not crucial that we carry on with these cars. Our future lies with Bentley, and we are likely to need all the space we have to devote to the fresh line-up we are developing,' he said.

Sales and marketing director Adrian Hallmark said: 'The shape of the next-generation Bentleys has board approval and we're working on interior detailing and marketing. 'What has not been decided is what engines will go under the bonnets, but we do know that the range will start at a price which is up to 45% cheaper than the cheapest current Bentley range.'