Bitchin' Rides' Dave Kindig Takes on a Unique Challenge: A Custom Hearse!

In a recent episode of Bitchin’ Rides, Dave Kindig and his team at Kindig-it Design took on one of their most unique challenges yet: customizing a hearse. This project deviates from their usual repertoire of classic cars and muscle vehicles, offering a rare opportunity to showcase their creativity and technical prowess in a different light.

Source: Instagram

The client for this project sought a hearse that maintained the somber gravitas of the original vehicle but with a signature Bitchin’ Rides twist—sleek, modern, and undeniably cool. Hearses, by nature, are designed for one primary purpose, so transforming one into a head-turning custom build presented several unique challenges, both mechanically and stylistically.

The first stage of the project involved extensive planning. Hearses are typically larger and longer than standard cars, which meant the team had to account for the extended wheelbase and unique proportions when designing custom body modifications and performance upgrades. Dave Kindig’s approach is always to blend classic aesthetics with modern performance and technology, and this project was no different.

Once the design was set, the tear-down process began, where the team stripped the vehicle down to its frame. From here, they started rebuilding it from the ground up, incorporating a custom suspension system, which is essential to maintaining smooth handling and ride quality for such a long, heavy vehicle. Custom wheels and tires were also part of the upgrade, ensuring the hearse not only looked amazing but drove like a dream.

Source: Instagram

One of the highlights of the build was the paint job. As with all Bitchin' Rides projects, the paint plays a huge role in the vehicle’s transformation. For the hearse, Kindig chose a deep, glossy black finish, accentuating the vehicle's stately presence. The meticulous work on the body ensured that the paint laid perfectly flat, giving the hearse a mirror-like shine.

The interior of the hearse received just as much attention. Kindig and his team wanted to give it a luxurious, modern feel while still respecting the vehicle's purpose. Plush leather seating, custom upholstery, and updated electronics were all incorporated. The challenge was to make the interior both comfortable and functional, with enough space to maintain its original use but still deliver the Bitchin' Rides flair.

As with any Bitchin’ Rides episode, the final reveal was the moment everyone had been waiting for. The finished hearse was nothing short of stunning, with its sleek lines, flawless paint, and modernized performance features. It stood as a testament to the team's ability to take on even the most unconventional requests and turn them into works of art.

Dave Kindig and his team at Kindig-it Design have become renowned for their ability to breathe new life into classic vehicles, and this hearse project was no exception. The success of this build shows the team’s versatility and innovative approach to custom car building, whether it’s a vintage muscle car, a European classic, or, in this case, a hearse​.