Herbie fully charged for a new purpose

At Canberra Memorial Parks (CMP), our electric vehicle has a very different mission. The custom-built electric hearse is helping families farewell loved ones with dignity while supporting CMP’s commitment to sustainability.

Introduced following the opening of the Memorial Hall, Herbie transports deceased people to cremation and burial services, ensuring the same level of care and respect throughout the entire funeral journey.

The project began in May 2025, with Herbie arriving in April 2026. CMP worked closely to customise the vehicle, incorporating the organisations colours to brighten the vehicles overall appearance, lowering the rear height to align with coffin trolleys, adding traditional hearse-style windows, redesigning the rear door, and fitting the interior with rollers, cushioning and secure coffin-locking mechanisms.

A pastel green coloured electric hears is parked beside a building and a rock garden feature which has the words Memorial Hall and Indigo Lounge carved into it.

Now in operation, Herbie has been warmly received by families, visitors and funeral directors alike. Visitors often stop to admire the vehicle, with many describing the vehicle as unexpectedly charming. Funeral directors have also welcomed the flexibility Herbie provides, particularly when their own hearse is unavailable.

For burial services, families can walk behind Herbie without being exposed to vehicle exhaust fumes, creating a more peaceful experience. Its near-silent operation also helps preserve the calm atmosphere of the cemetery grounds.

As the funeral industry increasingly embraces environmentally conscious services, Herbie represents another step in CMP’s broader sustainability journey. Quiet, practical and purpose-built, it shows how tradition and innovation can travel side by side. Herbie is helping families say goodbye in a way that honours both their loved ones and the world they leave behind.