The global auto industry is undergoing a transformation unlike any in its history. Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a niche offering — they are rapidly becoming mainstream. With governments tightening emissions regulations, manufacturers committing to electric-only futures, and public sentiment shifting toward sustainability, a new era is unfolding.

So, what does this mean for exotic and ultra-luxury vehicles — especially those with powerful V8s, V12s, or bespoke combustion engines — like Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, or Lamborghini? As one of the premier Rolls-Royce showrooms in the UAE, we explore how mainstream EV adoption is likely to affect the value and desirability of exotic cars in both the short and long term.

1. A Shift in the Automotive Landscape

EVs have already made a dramatic entrance into the performance space. Brands like Tesla, Rimac, and Lucid have proven that electric drivetrains can outperform combustion engines in raw acceleration. Meanwhile, traditional luxury marques such as Bentley, Porsche, and even Rolls-Royce have begun launching electric models, with full electrification timelines in sight.

As EVs become the standard, exotic cars with combustion engines will become increasingly rare — and rarity, as history tells us, often drives value in the luxury market. However, the effect on pricing is nuanced.

2. Short-Term Effects: ICE Supercars Hold Strong

Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) supercars — especially those already rare or historically significant — are likely to hold their value or appreciate in the short term (3–5 years). Why?

  • Emotional connection: Petrol-powered supercars provide a visceral driving experience — the sound of a naturally aspirated V12, the feel of gear shifts, the tactile rawness — that EVs, no matter how fast, cannot replicate.

  • Collector demand: As electrification advances, collectors are actively acquiring the "last of the breed" — final editions of ICE models (e.g., the Ferrari 812 Competizione, Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae, or the Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge).

  • Limited production: Many exotic ICE vehicles were produced in small numbers. As production shifts to EVs, existing models become instant classics.

From a Rolls Royce showroom UAE perspective, we’ve seen clients increasingly interested in pre-owned Ghosts and Wraiths with V12 engines. Even with Spectre — our fully electric grand tourer — entering the market, demand for combustion-engine models has not declined; rather, some clients view them as collectible assets.

3. Medium-Term: Market Divergence

In the medium term (5–10 years), we anticipate a divergence in value between exotic ICE cars and mainstream combustion vehicles.

  • Mass-market ICE vehicles may lose significant value, due to regulation, taxation, and lack of future support (fuel, maintenance, etc.).

  • Exotic ICE vehicles, however, will likely occupy a different cultural and economic position: as investment-grade collectibles, symbols of a bygone era, and mechanical art pieces.

Take classic Rolls-Royce models, for example — their value has endured not because they are the most efficient or technologically advanced, but because they represent an ideal of luxury, craftsmanship, and timeless design.

Similarly, a V12-powered Phantom or Black Badge Cullinan may, by 2030, be considered an "analog luxury" icon — much like owning a mechanical Swiss watch in the digital age. Prices will reflect that status.

However, regulatory pressure could affect usability: low-emission zones, fuel restrictions, and taxes may make daily driving of ICE cars less convenient, pushing some buyers toward EVs for daily use while keeping ICE exotics for private collections.

4. Long-Term Outlook: Rarity Drives Value

Looking further ahead (10–20 years), exotic ICE cars could see strong appreciation in value — provided they meet the following criteria:

  • Limited production runs

  • Strong brand heritage

  • Manual transmissions or signature driving experiences

  • Clean mechanical condition and provenance

A V12 Rolls-Royce with coachbuilt details, for instance, could become a highly desirable asset for collectors who value craftsmanship and tradition over raw performance specs. We believe that in the world of ultra-luxury vehicles, emotional value will outweigh performance comparisons with future EVs.

In fact, by 2040, it’s likely that some petrol-powered exotics may be housed in temperature-controlled garages, displayed in automotive museums, or auctioned at elite collector events — in the same way vintage Bugattis and Duesenbergs are treated today.

That said, vehicles not considered "iconic" may depreciate or stagnate in value, especially if maintenance becomes difficult or government restrictions become severe.

5. The Role of EV Supercars

As EVs go mainstream, we’re seeing a new class of electric supercars and hyper-luxury vehicles emerge — Rimac Nevera, Lotus Evija, and even the Rolls-Royce Spectre are examples of how electrification is redefining performance and design.

These vehicles will command their own segment and pricing models. But for traditionalists and collectors, an EV cannot replace the legacy, sound, or feel of a combustion-powered icon. Rather than replacing demand, EV supercars will likely exist alongside ICE exotics, each appealing to different types of enthusiasts.

6. Rolls-Royce Perspective: Bridging Two Worlds

As a heritage brand, Rolls-Royce embraces both tradition and innovation. With the arrival of the all-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre, we are not abandoning what makes our vehicles timeless — we are evolving luxury itself.

But many clients still ask about the future of V12-powered Phantoms or Ghosts. Here's our insight:

  • V12 Rolls-Royce models, especially bespoke commissions, will retain desirability, especially if they’re in pristine condition and limited edition.

  • Pre-owned demand may increase as production shifts to EVs, and collectors seek to acquire "the last V12s" or unique specs.

  • Electrification adds value too — early Spectres may become future icons in their own right, as the first electric Rolls-Royce.

7. How to Position Yourself as a Buyer or Collector

If you're looking to invest or build a collection as the EV revolution accelerates, consider these strategies:

  • Buy rare ICE exotics now, before electrification becomes universal. Focus on final editions or models with historical significance.

  • Prioritise condition and provenance — service records, low mileage, and originality will matter even more as these cars age.

  • Diversify your collection — consider having both ICE and EV luxury vehicles to experience the best of both worlds.

  • Plan for long-term storage and maintenance — including parts sourcing and emissions compliance.

Final Thoughts

EVs are not a threat to exotic car prices — they are a turning point. For mass-market combustion vehicles, mainstream EV adoption may mean rapid depreciation. But for truly exotic and ultra-luxury vehicles, like a Rolls-Royce Phantom or a limited-edition Ferrari, EVs may actually increase the value and cultural status of ICE models over time.

At our Rolls-Royce showroom in the UAE, we see clients who are equally excited about the future of electric luxury and nostalgic about the heritage of V12 performance. As the market evolves, we are here to offer expert guidance, whether you’re acquiring your first Rolls-Royce or building a legacy collection.

The age of electrification is here — but the spirit of true automotive excellence is timeless.