FuneralCar were recently blessed with the opportunity to transform LDV South Africa’s first G10 panel van into a hearse; indeed a stunning transformation. After conversion we headed out to start showcasing this elegant lady, the first of her kind in South Africa, to friends in the industry and welcomed their valued feedback.
Our first stop was at a funeral parlour in Midrand. The team were taken aback by the space, the features and most of all the hearse conversion by FuneralCar and pricing of the hearse was incredibly well received, considering the size of their fleet.
This vehicle is truly going to be a game changer in the market, was a sentiment they re-iterated. Following on from our visit, the parlour had opportunity to utilise the vehicle over a weekend for funerals, and it left a strong impression on both them and their clients. One of the drivers noted the exceptional value provided by all the additional features. A notable comment was that she offers a smooth driving experience and outperforms a leading competitor currently in their fleet. Orders to add LDV G10 hearses to their fleet have been received.
Next up was a parlour in Tzaneen, where we showcased this elegant vehicle. The feedback from the team was overwhelmingly positive. The van’s overall appearance and feel are perfect for a hearse, particularly when the black panel van is prepped for conversion upon arrival in the country (no extra cost for black paintwork). They noted that it would lead a procession beautifully, with family vehicles following. They also appreciated the standard features and cost savings of both the vehicle and conversion, making it a compelling option for them and other funeral homes.
Afterwards, our team traveled to Hoedspruit for an overnight stay before heading to another funeral parlour in Nelspruit the next morning. With an impressive fuel efficiency of 8.2L/100km, the van made its presence known, signalling a need for refuelling. On low fuel, we managed to reach a station after about 85 kilometres along a remote stretch of road. Not bad considering the long journey from the previous day.
At this funeral parlour, the team were thoroughly impressed. Their feedback mirrored that of the parlour in Tzaneen, highlighting the vehicle’s value with its conversion. The drive is smooth, automatic, and offers ample space, with a dignified look that compliments any funeral procession. As FuneralCar we were delighted to receive a call from this prominent parlours owner, confirming orders they would be placing for the G10 hearse.
Last but certainly not least, we visited a prominent funeral group in Centurion, where we had the opportunity to showcase the vehicle to the fleet team. She received much admiration from the Fleet Manager and team. They expressed that the LDV G10 Hearse offers fantastic value for money, making it ideal for parlours both in terms of cost and overall market appeal.
Additionally, they praised the conversion from FuneralCar, highlighting the sleek design, elegance, and high quality offered at a very fair price. To be told your hearse conversion looks like it came from the OEM ex factory is an incredible honour, and was sincerely well received.
They also appreciated the attention to detail, noting that we did not compromise on the quality of materials, and that our team took pride in delivering the final product. They remarked on the smooth stainless steel edges that are safe to handle, as well as the pull-out floor, which is easy to manoeuvre and particularly well-suited for funeral services.
We continue to showcase this special new lady on the market to friends in the industry, and have been so encouraged by the warm response she is receiving.
Mention must be made of LDV South Africa’s commitment to providing well-priced and well suited quality vehicles for the service of the funeral industry in Southern Africa. Their passion and commitment to the funeral industry are tangible, and it is our honour as FuneralCar to have been appointed as LDV SA’s only approved builder for the funeral industry.
Finally, as FuneralCar, our thoughts on this remarkable newcomer to the funeral industry. After driving her for nearly 1,000 kilometres, we can confirm that the ride is smooth, the cabin is spacious, and the seats are comfortable, complete with armrests that provide support during long journeys. Aircon is standard. Tow bars and roof rails can be fitted as an option. Additionally, there is plenty of room for small handheld luggage, and the fuel efficiency makes her a strong competitor in the marketplace.
Boasting a 2.0L turbo engine with decent torque, coupled with a good payload capacity for caskets and related equipment. The LDV G10 is praised for her comfort and suitability, particularly in the 8-speed automatic variant. It comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, a reverse camera, and rear parking sensors. She also features dual sliding side doors, rear barn doors, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The new LDV G10 hearse is a formidable contender; having arrived on the market in South Africa as the best priced new hearse in its segment.
All in all, we wholeheartedly endorse the LDV G10 hearse with two thumbs up (or in true FuneralCar style two shoes up), whether you’re adding her to a fleet or using her as a standalone vehicle for smaller parlours. Don’t just take our word on it, be sure to come check her out at FuneralCar.
For more information on this newcomer to the industry, and for quote requests (at specially negotiated pricing for the funeral industry) please contact:
Loren-Lee McDonnell
National Sales Manager | LDV South Africa
+27 (78) 544-2620
loren-lee@ldvauto.co.za
