Royal vehicles at Goodwood Revival made for a tribute to the late Queen
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) recently turned heads and touched hearts at the Goodwood Revival, where a convoy of nine royal vehicles circled the famous track in remembrance of Queen Elizabeth II on the first anniversary of her passing. This high-profile event fused British heritage with automotive history, giving attendees a taste of JLR's long-standing relationship with the British Royal Family.
The parade featured a well-curated selection of Defenders and Range Rovers that have been historically linked to the royals. Each of these vehicles was either part of the Royal fleet, JLR Classic collection, or private collections, and they spanned decades of British automotive craftsmanship. The event also showcased two early Series models, specifically the first Series I State Review vehicle and a Series I initially ordered by King George VI. This was the first time such a unique collection was ever gathered in one place.
Speaking on the occasion, Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer of JLR, expressed pride over the company's rich Royal associations. According to Hoornik, the parade was a fitting tribute to the late Queen, marking the first time that an extensive collection of Royal vehicles has ever been showcased in this manner. These Royal associations aren't just a thing of the past for JLR; they continue to be a significant part of the brand's identity. The DNA of the original Series Land Rovers, which kicked off JLR's relationship with the Royal Family, is still evident in modern-day Land Rover brands: Defender, Range Rover, and Discovery.
What’s more, the event didn't just feature a parade; there were also static displays of historic Royal Land Rovers. Among them was a Series I State Review vehicle that had a custom rear platform and had once accompanied Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip on a Commonwealth tour. Another spotlight was on a 1974 Range Rover State Review vehicle, which was in use until 2002 and had a specially modified rear with foldaway seats and a lectern containing concealed umbrellas.
The Goodwood Revival event is not just a trip down memory lane but also a showcase of how automotive design and functionality have evolved over the years. From early Series models with their sheer utility to the latest Range Rovers that offer an unmatched blend of luxury and off-road capability, JLR’s presence at the event was a manifestation of its enduring relevance and prestige in both automotive history and royal affairs.
This parade at Goodwood Revival is a testament to JLR's commitment to preserving its heritage while looking forward to an exciting future. It’s this exact blend of past and present that keeps JLR at the pinnacle of luxury vehicles, and why it holds a Royal Warrant as an official supplier to the British Royal Family. In paying homage to Queen Elizabeth II, JLR reminded us of the power of legacy—both royal and automotive.
