Leading Irish refinish paint supplier, Crown Paints, has played a key role in providing a makeover for the original Popemobile, first used for the visit of Pope John Paul II and now set to be used in a special role during the visit of Pope Francis I.  

Crown supplied the paint for the unique vehicle which has been fully refurbished by Dublin based body builders Cafco Vehicle Solutions. The vehicle was painted in the Cromax CV system Imron Elite and like the original, this year’s Papal transport has been finished in Vatican Yellow, a colour that features in the huge Cromax colour formulation database.

The original Popemobile used by Pope John Paul II on his visit in 1979, was based on a Ford Chassis,  was specially designed by Matt O’Brien and John Mulhare and built by OBAM in Cork. The design was loosely based on a Roman chariot, with the 20 ft long vehicle providing plenty of space for the Pope and his entourage.

The vehicle was rebuilt in 2012 this time using a Mercedes Atego chassis and cab and was made available for private hire. When news of Pope Francis I visit to Ireland was first announced it seemed only logical that this special vehicle should be involved. It will be used to carry elderly and disabled attendees to the Mass in Phoenix Park. 

With the help of Crown Paints and the expertise of the team at Cafco Vehicle Solutions the 2018 version of the Popemobile is now looking resplendent in its unique Papal Yellow colour and ready to once again to carry play a key role in the Pope’s visit.