The sight of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class hearse carrying Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin from Balmoral to Edinburgh caught many by surprise. Built by renowned German coachbuilder Binz, this Mercedes-Benz hearse served as the initial vehicle in the solemn journey, highlighting a blend of modern automotive engineering and time-honored tradition.
Binz, a company with a rich history dating back to 1936, began its journey crafting horse-drawn ambulances and hearses. Transitioning into automotive conversions in the 1950s, Binz established itself as a specialist in transforming luxury vehicles, particularly Mercedes-Benz models, into bespoke creations. Their expertise in extending wheelbases while maintaining the original vehicle’s integrity is evident in the hearse chosen for this significant royal occasion. Binz prides itself on using the same body panel suppliers as Mercedes-Benz, ensuring a seamless and high-quality finish that aligns with the luxury brand’s standards. This dedication to quality and detail has made Binz a trusted name in specialized vehicle manufacturing.
However, it’s noteworthy that for the subsequent procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall in London, the Queen’s coffin was transferred to a Jaguar hearse. This Jaguar hearse, distinctively finished in Royal Claret – the official color of royal vehicles – was a bespoke creation designed by The Royal Household and Jaguar Land Rover, bearing the personal approval of the Queen herself. This shift to a British-made vehicle for the London leg of the journey underscores the Royal Family’s embrace of both international craftsmanship and national heritage.
The use of a Mercedes-Benz hearse, while initially unexpected by some, opens up a broader conversation about the evolution of royal transportation and the globalized nature of even the most traditional institutions. Historically, royal hearses have reflected the automotive landscape of their time. Many recall the Daimler hearse used for Princess Diana, a British marque, and Prince Philip’s Land Rover Defender hearse, a testament to British engineering. The Royal Family’s collection reportedly includes a Rolls Royce Phantom VI hearse, showcasing the long-standing association of British luxury brands with royal occasions.
The selection of a German-made Mercedes-Benz hearse for the initial part of Queen Elizabeth’s final journey prompts reflection, particularly given the historical context of Britain and Germany. While some might view it as a surprising choice considering past conflicts, it also symbolizes reconciliation and the modern, interconnected world. It raises questions about “optics” and public perception, especially for those who deeply value British tradition. Is it simply a matter of practicality, reliability, or perhaps a subtle nod to the global reach of the British monarchy in the 21st century? Or could it be, as some might jest, a concern about the dependability of older British models?
Ultimately, the use of both a Mercedes-Benz and a Jaguar hearse for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral processions highlights a blend of pragmatism, tradition, and perhaps even a touch of unexpected symbolism. It leaves us to consider the evolving nature of royal representation in a world where even the vehicles of state occasions reflect a complex tapestry of history, international relations, and modern choices. The final vehicles chosen to transport the Royal Family after the funeral service were indeed British – Rolls Royce, Bentley, and Jaguar – all in the same Royal Claret as the Jaguar hearse, reinforcing the enduring image of British automotive excellence within the Royal Household.
