How Does a Hearse Work?

How Hearses are Made

Typically, a variation of a partially built luxury car will be shipped to a hearse manufacturer. The front end and chassis of the car are usually already built and pretty much stock, but much of the back end is assembled by the hearse manufacturer. It will have a large enclosure to carry the coffin, along with a decorative appearance including curtains on the windows and ornamental metal designs near the back.

Hearse Specializations

Hearses have many specialized features aside from their novel appearances. They generally have heavy-duty chassis designed to handle the weight of heavy coffins. In addition, many have lower suspensions than normal cars for easier coffin loading and unloading. They also have tables that can be extended from the back when it is time for the coffin to be removed. Modern hearses also have flashing lights on them like ambulances. When the procession is going through the city, other drivers will know to yield to the hearse and the cars following it.

Modern Variations

Anything that can carry a coffin can technically serve as a hearse. Therefore, many modern hearses are built around specific interests. Motorcycle sidecar hearses are sometimes used at funerals for motorcycle enthusiasts, for example. Hearses are also popular with some collectors. Some enjoy restoring old hearses to vintage condition, while others like to deck them out in morbid and fanciful designs.