Is this electric hearse the most respectful funeral car ever?

We might not want to think about it, but each and every one of us is going to need a funeral car one day. Sorry, not the kind of optimism you normally get on TopGear.com is it?

Anyway, much like us, even the humble hearse can’t escape the inevitable. You guessed it, we are of course talking about electrification.

The car you see at the top of this page is the Nissan Athena Electric Hearse, which owners Co-op Funeralcare claim is the first EV of its kind. Or first ever to serve in Scotland at least, where it’ll operate out of a base in Edinburgh.

Based on the chassis of a Nissan Leaf, the Athena’s extended exterior is made from recycled composite materials, further boosting its eco credentials.

It’s made by a company called Wilcox Limousines, a British coachbuilder established in 1948 that also makes hearses based on the Mercedes E-Class, the Bentley Flying Spur, Jaguar XF and Volvo S90.

Co-op Funeralcare has also welcomed a new electric Maxus Ambulance onto its fleet. “We are excited to be bringing our fully electric Nissan hearse and private ambulance to Scotland to offer dignified, elegant and environmentally friendly services for families and communities in the area,” said Nic MacLennan, head of operations for Co-op Funeralcare in Scotland.

“The way people choose to say goodbye is changing and those who have worked hard to reduce their carbon footprint in life, are also passionate about reducing their impact on the planet when they pass away. We’re committed to leading the way in helping the bereaved and their loved ones have a final farewell that does not adversely impact the environment.”

Alternatively, you could also inquire about that Tesla Model S hearse from a couple of years ago.