Queen Elizabeth II was well-known for her enthusiasm for Land Rovers and was regularly seen driving a Range Rover. The Royal Family received many automobiles from the Indian-owned company, including the one President Obama drove while in the United Kingdom.
However, King Charles III has chosen to continue with Audi. His preference for the four-ring brand’s vehicles isn’t due to his German heritage, as he has also been seen in a specially-built Bentley based on the Mulsanne, originally made for Queen Elizabeth II. Bentley, like Audi, is part of the Volkswagen Group.
Audi is not providing vehicles for free; the Royal Family is paying for them, likely through lease agreements. Buckingham Palace doesn’t give Audi preferential treatment.
A Royal Warrant, which Audi holds, requires a company to supply the Royal Household for at least five years before they can apply to use the Royal Arms. In Audi’s case, this award indicates King Charles III’s satisfaction with their collaboration.
As Prince of Wales, Charles was responsible for granting Royal Warrants, a duty that will pass to Prince William in 2025. The Royal Household works with many suppliers to meet its needs.
These companies can join an association that promotes community involvement and supports charitable events, including the Plowden Medal for conservation efforts. Sustainability is a key criterion for the Royal Warrant, which suits Audi’s plan to phase out internal combustion engines in favor of all-electric vehicles.