Inside the Exclusive Cars Driven by Modern Monarchs

Monarchies Still in Existence
Cars Driven by Royals Catching Eyes
Each Country Has unique features.

Kings who rule nations and cars. At first glance, these two words might not seem related. Typically, monarchies were more prevalent in the past, and cars were a product of industrialization. Hence, combining these two words might cause a slight sense of dissonance. However, surprisingly, that might not always be the case.

This is because monarchies, where kings and queens still exist, are still around. Notably, countries like the United Kingdom and Japan still have monarchs. Of course, these monarchs do not directly rule their countries, but the fact that they still exist even in 2024 can sometimes feel strange. During the modernization period in Korea, Emperor Gojong also drove a car. So, what types of vehicles did these royals drive?

The $12 million royal-certified Bentley
Ridden by the President of South Korea

Both the United Kingdom and Japan have excellent domestic car brands. The UK is notably the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, which led to rapid technological advancements. Charles III of the UK ascended to the throne after Queen Elizabeth passed away and made his appearance in a Bentley State Limousine during his coronation.

The Bentley State Limousine, a “Royal Warrant” vehicle that passed the rigorous inspection of the British royal family, stands out with its height of 69.7 inches, panoramic windows, and a unique driving mode that maintains a speed of 8.7 mph. It is one of only two such vehicles worldwide, estimated to cost about $12 million.

The Toyota Century Royal, with only four in existence in Japan

Japan, the country closest to us, is also a monarchy. The car Emperor Naruhito of Japan rode during his enthronement in 2019 was the Century, a luxury large sedan from Toyota. This top-of-the-line model, sold only in Japan, is considered the finest car in the country. The car officially used by the Japanese emperor is called the “Imperial Car.” The Century was chosen as the ‘Imperial Car’ after the Nissan Prince Royal, which had been used previously, became outdated.

Unlike the regular Century models, the royal exclusive model is called the Century Royal. The car’s logos and emblems are removed, leaving only the pattern symbolizing the royal family. It is said that only four Century Royals, including the hearse model, exist in Japan.

The “EoCha” driven by Gojong of the Korean Empire is now restored and displayed in a museum

There was a brief period when the king of our country, Korea, also drove a car. The 26th king of Joseon, the first emperor of the Korean Empire, was Gojong. He drove an ‘EoCha,’ famous for being the first car in Korea. He also drove a Royal Daimler Limousine, renowned as a state car of the British royal family.

Yes, it’s that Daimler, from Daimler-Benz. Daimler manufactured only ten luxury limousines at the time, one of which was used as Emperor Gojong’s EoCha. It is said to feature the royal crest of the Korean Empire, the five-petal plum blossom. After being restored, Emperor Gojong’s EoCha is reportedly housed in the National Palace Museum of Korea.