What Makes an Armored Car More Secure than Other Cars?

If you're interested in obtaining an armored sedan, armored SUV, or another type of armored vehicle, here's what you need to know about the protection you'll receive.

They're retrofitted with ballistic protected bulletproof glass Armored cars are more secure thanks to the use of bulletproof glass, otherwise known as ballistic transparent material. This material is typically constructed by layering polycarbonate material and special glass in a uniquely manufactured process. This process uses cutting-edge technology to provide nearly perfect optical viewing, even when the transparent material is as thick as 75 mm. It allows the driver to operate the vehicle without compromising the safety or well-being of those inside. Even if the opaque body of the vehicle is armored and resistant to different bullets, there is still the risk of projectiles impacting through the three-inch thick windows. The Beast, which is the armored sedan made for POTUS, is made with armor up to five inches thick.

They're much heavier
Depending on what protection level your vehicle has been retrofitted for and how comprehensively or certifiably it was armored, its final weight could be 800 to 2,000 pounds heavier than the standard unarmored version. To support this added weight, armored cars typically have the most powerful engine available for the model used and are retrofitted with a heavy-duty suspension system and brakes. It is also recommended to use the highest payload tires when available.

They're built to ram through things
Most people have noticed that bulletproof vans and trucks, particularly Cash-In-Transit (CIT) armored vehicles, are equipped with heavy-duty bull bars and bulky bumpers. This is intended to allow the armored vehicle to remove barricades on the road and pass through most barriers that block its path. This is essential should one’s armored vehicle get trapped and life is at stake. Personal protection armored cars and SUVs often have reinforced bumpers in a low-profile manner unnoticed to layman eyes. And, of course, they usually have a few more bells and whistles that enable their armored sedans and SUVs to withstand greater threats. Your average car would not likely survive the impact of passing through a barricade that an armored sedan or SUV would.

The drivers are highly trained Special training in operating and maneuvering an armored vehicle is strongly recommended. Not just anyone can drive an armored BMW or bulletproof truck, at least not when carrying VIPs or important cargo. In many instances, especially when transporting dignitaries, VIPs, and presidential personnel, the armored car driver is expected to stay with the vehicle until they complete the mission and arrive at their destination.

Armored cars are unique, especially when used within specific industries and usage. However, there are certain standard automobiles that can be outfitted with different levels of armor for everyday use that are referred to as personal protection type armored vehicles.

When you are ready to invest in an armored car, contact us for more information.