This "RFQ is part of an ongoing evaluation process, which is intended to provide the company with options as it positions itself for the future," says James Guyette, president and CEO of Rolls-Royce North America, in a statement. The eight identified states have 60 days to submit a bid to Rolls-Royce.

The company provided little additional detail as to why these eight states were invited to submit a bid, the size of the investment or even the specific nature of the manufacturing activity. Also, it is unclear whether it is seeking to build one or more factories. The company did not return calls.

In the statement, the company said all of its global business sectors (civil aerospace, defense aerospace, marine and energy) have identified growth opportunities and the company was seeking to establish new facilities that would provide "greater capacity, strengthened business continuity as well as increased global competitiveness."

The RFQ is based on comprehensive business criteria that Rolls-Royce developed. Factors the company is most likely weighing include quality of infrastructure, similar manufacturing operations in the area, a trained work force and possibly a generous tax incentive package provided by the state and municipality.

Some of the potential US sites are already home to Rolls-Royce operations, with its North American headquarters based here. It manufacturers aircraft engines in Indiana and recently broke ground in Mississippi to build a test facility. Another Mississippi-based plant builds ship vessel engines.

In June, American Honda Motor Co. announced plans to build an automobile plant in Indiana. As reported by GlobeSt.com, the company was also considering Ohio, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. Indiana offered Honda a $41.5-milion incentive and $44 million in state investment in infrastructure improvements.

Instant Insights /

Rolls-Royce Scouts Eight States for New Site

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