From a small idea to a very large reality, this month sees the formal launch of our Land Rover Defender hearse. It’s the newest addition to our fleet and since it’s introduction, it’s been a popular choice for families up and down the country who want a unique, personal and meaningful final journey.
Our Land Rover Defender hearse is the first funeral car to boast features that go beyond any ordinary Land Rover hearse. A fusion of funeral director requirements with the expertise of independent Land Rover specialists https://www.engine710.co.uk
The two Scottish businesses – both leaders in their fields – spent considerable time exploring how hearses worked before identifying a donor 110 station wagon to begin this unique transformation.
The Nuts and Bolts
- Refurbished to create a Defender 130 station wagon featuring:
- Customised low deck capable of displaying coffins in full, along with floral tributes on top – a key part of the visual requirement of modern hearses
- Maximum length to accommodate standard length coffins
- Panoramic glass on both roof and sides to optimise the light and visual appeal of the coffin and flowers
- LED strips typically found in a modern hearse
- Fully opening back door, extending the 90 degree reach of the typical station wagon to enable easy transition of coffins in and out of the hearse
- Additional storage for printed client keepsakes, Orders of Service, umbrellas or other items required on a funeral
- Optimill hinges throughout to extend the longevity of the Land Rover Defender, a car known to rust quickly
- Electric windows, air-con and an upgraded stereo – for drivers who are often taking long trips to remote, and previously less accessible, locations
- Five doors allowing easy access down the side of a coffin for additional floral tributes or other keepsakes
Director Andrew Purves had been toying with the idea of a Defender for some time, drawing on his personal experience as a Land Rover fan. He said: “I know how important this car is to people and I believed countless others like me would go to great lengths to have the Land Rover for their last trip because it means so much to them in life.”
That sentiment was affirmed by a Peebles based family who were the first to use our Land Rover hearse. They said: “The minute we heard it was a possibility, we were thrilled as we’ve had Defenders all our life. It was a fitting tribute to my husband and dad: down to earth, hardy; a car that honoured so many happy memories. He’d have been chuffed.”
William Purves is no stranger to disruption in a sector known for its traditions. In 2012, we introduced a silver fleet of hearses and limousines replacing the standard black. It was a bold move.
To this day, the directors remember initial reactions both internally and from families they served. Initial scepticism gave way to appreciation and now the signature look of William Purves is admired and recognised in all the communities they serve and beyond.
Defenders are part of the family. Andrew concludes: “The launch of the new Land Rover has been met with such enthusiasm – we know what a difference it has made to those who’ve used it since it’s launch and now it’s fully available for our funerals, or for other funeral directors to hire for their families.”
Find out more at https://www.landrover-hearse.co.uk or follow us on Facebook for regular stories and updates.
