Nissan Leaf hearse brings eco-consciousness to your last resting place

You can go to the grave knowing that your last ride was as green as possible.

People who have died in the UK can be buried in an electric car provided by Leverton & Sons’ funeral directors, Eco-Hearse. Although this Nissan Leaf specially converted is a unique way to transport a casket it would be a great final ride to honor someone who is especially eco-conscious.

The hearse conversion of the Nissan Leaf is performed by Brahms Electric Vehicles in England. The vehicle’s side is replaced by a transparent panel that allows mourners easy access to the coffin. The deck that holds the casket is almost the length of the vehicle. In fact, the driver is right next to it. The motor tilts the coffin upward or downward to allow for better viewing from the driver. Safety is not something you often think about when buying a hearse. However, this one features a horizontal crash beam and an airbag sensor to protect the deceased.

Green Car Reports reports that Brahms built three Leaf hearses, and sold two. Brahms converted Nissan’s EVs from used vehicles, which allowed the company to sell them at a lower cost than a traditional funeral vehicle.

Brahms isn’t the only company that wants to use a greener method of transporting a casket. A Dutch company unveiled last year, a modified Tesla Model S hearse. To make it easier to fit a coffin inside, the company added 31.5 inches (80 cm) to the wheelbase. The glass sides and higher roof allow mourners to see inside.

Other European companies offer alternative ways to ride the final ride, even though they are not as green. Last year, an Italian company displayed a Maserati Ghibli hearingse which looked fun and was a great way to get to the cemetery. Biemme Special Cars, a company from the same country, has been converting Rolls-Royce Phantoms over the years. It is an extremely luxurious way to reach the great beyond.