In 1971 the original State Review Land Rover was to be replaced by the new Range Rover and for the next two years, memos, sketches and detailed drawings were sent between Land Rover and the Royal household.

State I started out as a regular Range Rover but fitted with a special body. The bulkhead behind the driver was moved forward and the fuel tank moved for more space. An extra exhaust silencer was fitted and moved away from the rear door, so the Royal occupants didn’t have the smell of the fumes.

Inside were foldaway seats and half-seats which could be used as supports when the Royal party was standing. Two umbrellas were concealed, ready for the British weather. Many of the special parts were made free of charge by outside suppliers, including the leather upholstery as well as some of the body panels, which were made of steel rather than aluminium.