In 1884, a self-taught engineer named Henry Royce established a small business in Britain with only 70 pounds (approximately $100) – 50 of which were borrowed. Initially, Royce Limited produced only electrical motors and generators, eventually building its first motor car in 1904. That same year, Royce met Charles Rolls whose company sold quality cars in London.

At their first meeting, Royce took Rolls for a spin in the car. Legend has it that as he climbed aboard, Rolls asked Royce to “start her up.” Royce replied, “My dear fellow, she’s already running!” Soon after, they reached an agreement that Royce Limited would manufacture a range of cars to be sold exclusively by CS Rolls & Company. The success of these Rolls-Royce cars led to the formation of the Rolls-Royce Company just two years later – in 1906.

The charter included a provision that the company should produce engines for use “on land or water or in the air.” That same year, Rolls-Royce launched the Silver Ghost - immediately hailed as “the best car in the world” - and opened its first U.S. office, a sales office on Broadway in New York City.

Meanwhile, Charles Rolls had been introduced to the Wright brothers and become passionate about flight. Until his untimely death in 1910, in the crash of his Wright Flyer, Rolls worked hard to persuade his partner to venture into the aviation business. Royce however continued to concentrate on the design and continual improvement of the cars.

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