Wallace Wyss –
It was quite a surprise to see a Mercedes-Benz hearse as part of the procession carrying Queen Elizabeth II. Specifically, a Mercedes-Benz E-Class hearse, crafted by the esteemed German coachbuilder Binz, was chosen to transport the Queen’s coffin from Balmoral Castle to Edinburgh in Scotland. This selection has sparked some discussion, especially given the historical context between Britain and Germany.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Hearse by Binz carrying Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin, highlighting the unexpected choice of a German vehicle for a British royal occasion.
Binz, the company behind this Mercedes Hearse, boasts a long and respected history dating back to 1936. Initially, they specialized in horse-drawn ambulances and hearses. However, recognizing the shift towards motorized transport and luxury vehicles, Binz began converting high-end Mercedes-Benz cars in the 1950s. Their expertise in coachbuilding and modifications for specialized vehicles has made them a prominent name in the industry.
Interestingly, while the Mercedes hearse played a role in Scotland, the journey from Buckingham Palace in London to Westminster Hall featured a different hearse altogether – a Jaguar hearse. This vehicle was not an off-the-shelf model but was specially designed by The Royal Household and Jaguar Land Rover, receiving personal approval from the Queen herself. Finished in Royal Claret, a distinctive deep red color reserved for official royal vehicles based at Buckingham Palace and used by the royal family for official duties, the Jaguar hearse represented a strong statement of British automotive engineering.
The bespoke Jaguar hearse, painted in Royal Claret, used for transporting Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin in London, showcasing British automotive design and royal tradition.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class hearse by Binz is engineered with an extended wheelbase. This modification is crucial not only for accommodating the coffin but also for maintaining two rows of passenger seating, a feature often required for ceremonial vehicles. Binz’s commitment to quality is further underscored by their use of the same body panel suppliers as Mercedes-Benz, ensuring seamless integration and maintaining the vehicle’s original aesthetic and build integrity. This attention to detail makes the Binz Mercedes hearse a vehicle of exceptional quality and finish.
Reflecting on royal hearses of the past, it’s worth noting the Daimler hearse used for Princess Diana’s funeral, a British marque. More recently, Prince Philip’s funeral procession included a Land Rover Defender hearse, a vehicle he himself was involved in designing, emphasizing a personal and practical choice.
Searching online for “royal hearses” reveals a rich history and a diverse collection within the Royal Family’s vehicle fleet. This includes a Rolls-Royce Phantom VI hearse, a vehicle seemingly well-suited for such solemn occasions with its dignified presence.
The choice of a German Mercedes hearse, even for a segment of the Queen’s final journey, raises questions about national symbolism. Considering the immense sacrifices made by Britain during the World Wars against Germany, the optics of using a German vehicle to carry the coffin of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch might seem incongruous to some. It prompts reflection on tradition, modernity, and international relations in the context of national mourning.
While speculating about potential reasons, it’s unlikely to be due to reliability issues. Rolls-Royce Phantoms, despite their prestige, are not immune to breakdowns, as famously illustrated by images of the Royal Family awaiting assistance after a Phantom malfunction.
Perhaps the selection of the Mercedes hearse is less about national identity and more about practicality, availability, or a pre-existing arrangement. It’s important to remember that reconciliation and moving forward are vital in international relationships. However, for those who deeply identify with “Traditional England” – the embodiment of “stiff upper lip” and enduring British heritage – the sight of a German Mercedes hearse in such a prominent role might be a surprising note in an otherwise meticulously planned and symbolically rich event.
It’s a point of discussion, and your perspectives are welcome.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
AUTHOR: Wallace Wyss, author of numerous books on automotive history. He is available for oil painting commissions of classic and exotic cars. Contact him for art inquiries at [email protected].
Below are images captured from television coverage of the Queen’s funeral, showcasing the vehicles used to transport the Royal Family members. These were all British-made cars, uniformly finished in the same Royal Claret color as the Jaguar hearse. The deep, dark red hue was particularly striking on television.
Mike Gulett, Editor
Rolls Royce limousine in Royal Claret, part of the Royal Family’s motorcade at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, representing British luxury and heritage.
Bentley
Rolls Royce limousine carrying members of the Royal Family, with noticeable weight in the rear, during the funeral procession for Queen Elizabeth II.
Jaguar limousine in Royal Claret, transporting royal family members, during Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, further emphasizing the use of British vehicles.
[1] It’s important to note that while Rolls-Royce and Bentley are British brands with rich histories, they are currently owned by German companies (BMW and Volkswagen Group respectively), and Jaguar is owned by Tata Motors, an Indian company.
Mike Gulett, Editor
