According to the report, if disruptions continue, some vehicles intended for West Asian customers may be redirected to other markets such as Japan.Luxury carmakers are adopting alternative delivery methods for high-end vehicles in West Asia as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz affect shipping routes, according to a report by the Financial Times.
Italian carmaker Ferrari said it has paused most vehicle deliveries to Gulf countries after car carriers were unable to enter the region due to restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz. However, the company said a limited number of personalised vehicles are still being delivered by air.
Ferrari has also informed investors that some vehicles could be shipped to customers outside the region if buyers request alternative arrangements, the report said.
Air freight was already used in some cases before the conflict, particularly for limited-edition or bespoke models, with customers opting for faster delivery despite higher costs.
Air freight costs rise amid conflict
Industry executives said that the cost gap between air and sea transport has widened since the disruption began. Data from Freightos, cited in the report, showed that the average cost of flying cargo from Europe to West Asia has risen to about $2.96 per kilogram, roughly two-thirds higher than earlier levels. Transporting vehicles by air remains significantly more expensive due to size and handling requirements.
Other manufacturers are also modifying their delivery plans. Bentley Motors said it is fulfilling orders using vehicles already available in the region rather than shipping new units by air.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said it is working with logistics partners to maintain deliveries but did not specify transport methods.
Chris Brownridge, chief executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said that West Asia remains a key market and that the company is in regular contact with customers to ensure deliveries continue.
West Asia remains a key market
Although markets such as the United States and China generate higher volumes, West Asia remains important for luxury carmakers due to demand for customised vehicles. At Ferrari, personalised options account for around one-fifth of automotive revenue.
Volkswagen Group has also warned that tensions in the region could affect sales of its premium brands, including Porsche, Lamborghini and Audi.
While most existing orders have not been cancelled, some companies have reported a slowdown in new bookings. One European luxury carmaker has paused plans to expand its dealership network in Saudi Arabia and reported reduced showroom activity in Abu Dhabi.
According to the report, if disruptions continue, some vehicles intended for West Asian customers may be redirected to other markets such as Japan.
Wider pressure on luxury carmakers
The disruption comes as the global luxury car market faces challenges, including higher tariffs in the United States and slower demand in China. Many manufacturers had expected demand in West Asia to offset weaker performance in these regions.
Senior Automotive Executive, Andy Palmer said the industry is facing a difficult environment, with demand weakening across multiple markets at the same time, the report added.
