A few days ago, I got the opportunity to drive a wedding couple to church with my electric 1954 Renault 4CV. Here are some pictures, experiences and observations during the day. It was a very special day indeed, not only for the wedding couple, but also for me as a wedding driver. It was my first time doing something like that, like it was for the wedding couple. And for the car, too!
And on a more general note: Not many weddings in the whole wide world have probably seen the involvement of an electric classic car. There’s one well-known leading case however: The British Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan – they drove off in an electrified 1968 Jaguar E-Type Concept Zero! A good omen for an exciting day.
I got up quite early in the morning to decorate the car, with ribbons, bows, balloons and of course a beautiful flower bouquet on the front boot of the car! The flower bouquet is fixed with a very strong suction cup and holds very strong, even though the speed will be limited anyways.
The last few technical checks: Air, brakes, brakes… wait: What was that sound on the left back drum?
Oh no: The piston on the wheel brake cylinder got pushed out too far and got stuck, so the brake wouldn’t release. What a bad luck. It always happens on these days! The time pressure instantly rose and I had to work out a quick solution, and eventually managed to push the piston back and seal the cylinder off in a way that it would securely hold the pressure of the brake fluid. A few tests later the brake activated and released as it should, and a last minute start to the church was possible.
The drive to the church went very smooth. Doesn’t the little car look super proud?
After church, I drove the couple to their reception. On the way, we came across the horses of the bride. What looks like a casual encounter on the road was of course a well-timed surprise that was meticulously planned and executed by her friends from the horse stable.
Upon arrival at the reception, the couple was met by two chimney sweepers in full attire – a symbol that is supposed to bring luck to the couple according to some cultures.
Later on that day, the time came to bring the Renault 4CV back home. Another smooth drive towards its barn. And then another funny highlight: Pulling up to a public charger with the fully decorated electric classic car! Imagine the eyes of the people in the other car at the station, they must have thought to be living a surreal dream!
All in all it was a fantastic experience on a lovely day. The car really made a statement and a difference. The symbolic significance of the drive in the classic electric car will probably only be fully understood and realised over time… but it will be a great memory for the wedding couple in any case!
