A closer look at some of the custom-made cars used by heads of state, monarchs, and religious leaders around the world.
Whose Car Is That? One-Off Automobiles Of World Leaders
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Visibility rather than security was apparently the major design consideration for the car of Japan’s Emperor Naruhito. Toyoto created a one-off open-topped version of its luxurious Century limousine for the enthronement parade of Japan’s symbolic leader in Tokyo in November 2019 (pictured). The car was expected to be spotted in public again during an appearance of the emperor to celebrate the Olympic Games in Tokyo.
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Pope Francis has ridden in various cars during foreign visits, but perhaps the most unique “popemobile” is this Madagascar-made Karenjy vehicle used in September 2019. Karenjy, which means “stroll” in the Madagascan language, is an African company known for boxy trucks that can handle rough local roads. A team of 15 workers spent five months building the vehicle. It includes a swiveling seat, Vatican flags, and gold versions of Pope Francis’ coat of arms on its rear doors.