[The Love Story of Oliver]
Hammond’s attachment to Oliver became one of the standout elements of the Botswana Special.

Hammond chose a 1963 Opel Kadett, which he named Oliver. While Jeremy Clarkson and James May mocked Hammond for his choice, considering it impractical for the harsh conditions of Botswana, Hammond’s attachment to Oliver was evident from the start.

Crossing the Makgadikgadi Pan: Oliver struggled with the extreme conditions of the salt flats, much like the other cars, but Hammond’s determination to protect and preserve his beloved Kadett stood out. Hammond’s efforts included constantly checking on Oliver and attempting to shield him from potential damage.

Okavango Delta: One of the most memorable moments was when Hammond took extraordinary measures to waterproof Oliver to cross the river in the delta. Despite the teasing from Clarkson and May, Hammond’s care and resourcefulness paid off, and Oliver successfully made it through the water crossing.

Emotional Connection/ Personification: Hammond’s tendency to anthropomorphize Oliver, treating the car almost like a pet or a friend, added a unique emotional layer to the special. He often referred to Oliver with affection, which resonated with viewers. The bond between Hammond and Oliver was a stark contrast to Clarkson and May’s more practical and less sentimental relationships with their cars. This dynamic added depth to the narrative and highlighted Hammond’s softer, more sentimental side.

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