The importance of spare parts for 4×4 vehicles is demonstrated by an upcoming exhibition in California that will feature Land Rovers used by the Royal Family. The display will take place on 18 August at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, which will be the finale of 2024 Monterey Car Week, an annual celebration of automotive excellence.
The classic Land Rover display will feature ten vehicles that have close links with the Royal Family, either because they have been used to carry out official duties or have been put to work on the Royal estates as part of the household fleet. The display is being organised by Land Rover Classic, who specialises in restoring vintage vehicles.
The display has been arranged to pay tribute to HM Queen Elizabeth II. Some of the vehicles will be on loan from the British Motor Museum, and some will be from private collections or sourced directly from the Royal fleet, and it will be the first time they have been displayed in the US.
The collection will feature two of the earliest Land Rovers used by the Royals, including a 1954 Land Rover Series I State Review Vehicle with a custom rear platform that was used to accompany the late Queen and Prince Philip on a tour of the Commonwealth. A 1954 Land Rover Series I commissioned by King George will also feature in the display.
Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer, JLR, said: “We take pride in our long‑standing royal connections, which go back to the very beginning of our business.”
“Sharing this unique collection of vehicles with passionate enthusiasts at a globally renowned event such as Pebble Beach demonstrates our appreciation for this unique relationship, which extends to this day.”
Sandra Button, Chairman of The Pebble Beach Concours D ’Elegance, said: “Welcoming these historic vehicles to the Pebble Beach Concours show field gives us the opportunity to celebrate the Land Rovers and Range Rovers that played a significant role in the life of one of the world’s most admired women, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.”
Occasionally, vehicles that have previously been owned and used by the Royal family appear for display on the open market, although none of the Pebble Beach collection are currently available for sale. Usually, any customisation or sign that the vehicle has been in Royal use is removed from the vehicle before it goes on sale.
Land Rovers have proved to be incredibly tough and enduring vehicles since they were first introduced in 1948. It remains the world’s most popular 4×4 over 70 years later, although they have evolved from utilitarian agricultural vehicles to high end luxury vehicles favoured by celebrities, politicians, and indeed the Royal family.
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