A luxury Range Rover once owned and driven by the late Queen Elizabeth II is going under the hammer later this month, offering a rare opportunity for car collectors and royal fans alike.
The 2006 Range Rover L322, a supercharged V8 model, is believed to be the only one of its kind owned by the Royal Household, according to Iconic Auctioneers, who are handling the sale at the upcoming Silverstone Festival in the UK.
Delivered new for Her Majesty’s exclusive use on April 25, 2006, the vehicle remained in royal service until April 2009. During that time, it was reportedly driven by the Queen herself on several occasions, including to the 2007 Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The Range Rover, originally registered as BJ06 ZGM, boasts a Jaguar-derived 4.2-litre supercharged V8 engine and includes several subtle but telling modifications fitted specifically for royal use. These include side steps, mud flaps, a rear dog guard, and rear grab handles for easier entry and exit, practical additions for a monarch known for her hands-on approach and love of driving.
Photos reveal a blue tint on the front and rear lights, likely linked to the discreet flashing blue light system used by the Royal Family during official travel. More covert additions include secure communication rewiring and security equipment embedded throughout the vehicle.
Despite the challenge of verifying royal vehicle ownership through official channels, the auction house states that photographic evidence ties the car directly to Queen Elizabeth II, including images of her entering and exiting the SUV at high-profile events.
“This 2006 Range Rover L322 was delivered new on 25th April 2006 for the exclusive use of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” the listing reads.
“As with all vehicles of this nature, it is almost impossible to clarify early ownership with various authorities.
“Queen Elizabeth II can be seen in attendance and departing the vehicle at the 2007 Royal Windsor Horse Show, verifying the provenance to be both genuine and distinguished.”
Now with less than 120,000 miles (193,121 km) on the odometer and just under 18,000 miles (28,968 km) driven since leaving royal service, the Range Rover remains in superb condition. It’s expected to fetch up to $143,950 AUD (£70,000 GBP) at auction.
Queen Elizabeth II’s lifelong love of cars was no secret. Throughout her reign, she amassed a personal fleet of British-made vehicles, from practical Land Rovers to stately Bentleys and Rolls-Royces, many of which she drove herself.
This uniquely modified Range Rover, described by Iconic Auctioneers as having “genuine and distinguished” provenance, offers more than a slice of automotive history, it’s a chance to own a vehicle that quite literally carried the crown.
Images: Auctioneer / Wikimedia
