Frequently Asked Questions
In the media and general public, references to "armored vehicles" often have a military subtext. However, in the industry that we are in, armored vehicles are non-military, but include law enforcement and commercial application, as well as personal use. This means a variety of Sedans, SUVs, Vans, and Trucks of different sizes for various commercial and law enforcement applications.
There are several Ballistic Standards in the world with different levels indicating different standards (see Alpine's Ballistic Standards). It can be confusing if a level is referred to as just a number or a letter, unless it is referenced to its respective standards. Alpine Armoring offers ten (10) clearly stated levels of protection, each corresponding to a major and internationally recognized ballistic standard.
No, we can’t just add ballistic glass. In order to add ballistic glass to a vehicle, we need to reinforce the door to support the added weight, along with the pillar, hinge and structure. This type of additional support will ensure the door opens & closely properly and doesn’t sag over time with use.
Depending on the protection level, anywhere from 600 – 1500 lbs. On heavier duty trucks the added weight would be much more. However, we always make sure the added weight is below the GVWR of the specific vehicle designed to be armored.
Suspension is almost always upgraded & reinforced. The brakes are sometimes upgraded depending on the make & model of the vehicle being armored and the additional weight being added.
We often keep an ample supply of STOCK armored vehicles for immediate shipping. A new SUV or Sedan would take about 4 to 8 weeks to finish. Exotic vehicles as well as SWAT trucks and Riot Control trucks take longer.
Normally, all of Alpine's armored vehicles come with a minimum one (1) year warranty on all armored parts and labor. In some cases, the original manufacturer does honor the warranty of the vehicles itself and that can be handled at a local dealer in the USA or anywhere in the world. However, many other manufacturers (Mercedes-Benz) consider the warranty of their vehicle void if the vehicle is armored.
Alpine Armoring Inc. no longer requires an Export License as a result of the new regulations published in the Department of Commerce Federal Register dated June 20, 2013, as long as the vehicles do not meet the new minimum thresholds or are not for off road military use. This does not apply to all vehicles Alpine Armoring Inc. offers, and is reviewed on a case by case basis.
Usually not. However, in some states (i.e. California) the local authorities require a special license by the operator (even for personal vehicles). Obtaining that license is normally easy with the proper justification provided to DMV. These laws can potentially be changed and are therefore subject to new guidelines. It is best to check with the local sheriff of the jurisdiction/state one resides in to find out what the latest laws are pertaining to operating an armored vehicle in that state.
All our sales are performed based on 50% deposit at the time of order and 50% due prior to shipping except for the US Government contracts and selected buyers with previous buying records. In some cases of foreign government purchases we also accept pre-approved Letter of Credit as form of payment. All the STOCK vehicles will have to be paid for via wire transfer prior to shipping. We don’t offer in-house financing, but are successful with lenders, banks, and credit unions of the client’s choice to finance.
Yes, we do offer special training for those who need it, especially for evasive driving and hijacking situations. However, for the average person, driving an armored car (SUVs and sedans) requires little training and a lot of common sense. Considering the vehicle's weight is nearly 20 to 40 percent heavier, the driver should use extra caution in stopping distances, when going around curves, and maintaining at or below the maximum road speed at all times.
There are grants available for different jurisdictions for different amounts through Homeland Security Grants. We also offer financing and lease package to any US law enforcement agency that may need financing to purchase a SWAT truck.
Yes, you can bulletproof virtually any vehicle with the right expertise and materials. At Alpine Armoring, we specialize in customizing vehicles to meet your specific security needs, ensuring that you and your loved ones stay safe in any situation. Whether you need a fully armored SUV, a luxurious bulletproof sedan, or a heavy-duty armored truck, we have the experience and technology to deliver the highest level of protection.
The cost of an armored vehicle varies widely based on the base vehicle, level of protection, and additional features. While it is a significant investment, the protection and security it offers can be invaluable.
In an increasingly unpredictable world, the demand for armored vehicles has surged, driven by a variety of reasons that emphasize the need for enhanced personal and asset protection. These can include personal security and protection, business and corporate security, protection in high-risk areas, enhanced family safety, transporting valuable goods, increased global instability, and peace of mind.
Bulletproof glass, also known as ballistic glass, is designed to provide varying levels of protection depending on its thickness and the materials used in its construction. The choice of bulletproof glass thickness depends on the specific security needs and threats faced by the vehicle's occupants. The choice of bulletproof glass thickness depends on the specific security needs and threats faced by the vehicle's occupants, and typically ranges from 20mm to 72mm thick.
Bulletproofing a car is a meticulous process that involves fortifying both transparent and opaque areas of the vehicle are fortified to withstand ballistic threats. Alpine Armoring employs advanced materials and technologies to ensure that every vehicle meets the highest standards of safety and performance. Whether you need protection against handguns or high-powered rifles, their custom solutions ensure that you and your loved ones remain safe in any situation.
Alpine Armoring uses an internal "A" scale, while the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) defines the "B" scale. The primary difference between the "A" and "B" levels lies in their application and the specific threats they are designed to counter. Alpine Armoring's "A" scale is tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients, offering a more customized approach to ballistic protection. In contrast, the "B" scale provides a standardized method of classification that is widely recognized across Europe, offering a clear benchmark for comparing the protective capabilities of different vehicles.
In the United States, there are no federal laws prohibiting civilians from purchasing or owning an armored vehicle. Always ensure that you are aware of and comply with the specific laws in your area before making a purchase.
Armored vehicles typically have a higher value than standard vehicles due to the cost of armoring and additional features. When insuring your armored car, it’s essential to provide accurate information about the vehicle’s value. Not all insurance companies offer policies for armored vehicles. It's crucial to find an insurer experienced in covering these types of vehicles.
Yes, you can have your own vehicle armored provided the vehicle meets basic eligibility requirements including low mileage, in excellent mechanical condition, and the vehicle will perform effectively even with the added weight of the armor.
Of the 195 countries recognized by the UN, 54 use Right Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles, also referred to as Left Hand Traffic (LHT). Examples include Australia, India, Japan, and the UK, whereas places like the US, Canada, Germany, and Nigeria are Left Hand Drive (LHD). View the complete list of countries or check out this map, with Left Hand Traffic (LHT) in dark blue.
