Speed Reading — Level 6 — 200 wpm 

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The luxury automobile maker Rolls-Royce has reported record sales for 2013. The company said it's the fourth consecutive annual sales record. It sold 3,630 cars last year, with a strong surge in demand in the Middle East and China accounting for a good portion of the buoyant sales. The Middle East saw a sales increase of 17 per cent last year, while sales in China went up by 11 per cent. Rolls-Royce sold cars in more than 40 countries last year, including new markets. Plans are in place to continue this global expansion. The company CEO said: "We have reported a strong year and have maintained our position at the pinnacle of the super-luxury market." Super-luxury means cars costing over $272,000.

The CEO said people buy a Rolls Royce because they want to have a brand that is unrivalled in its image of luxury. He said: "It's the ultimate treat; the reward for hard work. We see that clearly from our customers. Around 80 per cent of our cars are bought by businessmen and women, most of whom have started and run their own businesses. The rest are bought by sports stars and film stars." He added that it's not just the super-rich who were snapping up the cars. He said: "What's interesting now is that we are seeing a new group of individuals who have built up mid-sized businesses and they also want to treat themselves to the magic carpet ride." Businesswomen now account for ten per cent of sales.

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