Rolls-Royce at the 2012 London Olympics

Three Rolls-Royce motor cars, each sported newly-designed badges for the first time in the company's 108 year history, served as chariots during the closing ceremony event, titled 'A Symphony of British Music'. The new badges, designed by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design Team, replaced the traditional double R-R for the first time since the company started in 1904.

Each Phantom Series II Drophead Coupé was finished, appropriately, in English White, silently conveyed three modern British artistes - Jessie J, Taio Cruz and Tinie Tempah - during the event, with the artistes were hidden from view as the cars crossed the auditorium, before being revealed as each convertible roof gracefully descended. Each Phantom II was driven by a specially-trained Rolls-Royce employee.

The new grille badge (a requirement of LOCOG, which doesn't allow corporate branding under the non-commercial terms of the Games) featured the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy with patriotic Union Flag replacing the traditional flowing gown of the 'Graceful Little Goddess'. The steering wheel centre featured a traditional laurel wreath and torch in place of the R-R badge, and the self-righting wheel centres featured the words 'London 2012' surrounded by the Olympic motto, 'Citius, Altius, Fortius' ('Faster, Higher, Stronger').

The badges were complemented by unique door sill plates identifying each car as 'One of Three', creating perhaps the most collectable (and unobtainable) Rolls-Royce Bespoke items ever produced. It's likely the three Phantom IIs will remain in the possession of Rolls-Royce for special display or ceremonial work only and NOT be offered for sale to the public.

"I am delighted that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was invited to take part in celebrating the success of the Games and it is appropriate that we should recognise this occasion with a fitting tribute," said Torsten Muller-Ötvös, Chief Executive.

"These unique cars were hand built at the Home of Rolls Royce at Goodwood by our dedicated and passionate workforce and the whole team can take great pride in their part in making history for our company."

Images: Rolls-Royce - BMW Group