No, you can’t simply add bulletproof glass to your vehicle like you would with regular glass. It’s not that simple. Car projects require comprehensive ballistic glass installation, including structural modifications, because bullet-resistant automotive glass is significantly thicker and heavier than factory glass. DIY bulletproof inserts pose safety risks compared to professional installations, as improper installation compromises protection.
Armor levels determine thickness – A1 (CEN B1) level stops .38 Special rounds, while A12 (B7+) level withstands armor-piercing rifles. Bulletproof glass thickness and visibility increase with protection levels, ranging from 20mm (c. 0.79”) to 72mm (c. 2.83”). To ensure the car can safely support the added weight, several adjustments are needed. This usually means door reinforcement for ballistic glass, upgraded hinges, and modified window regulators.
The cost range for automotive ballistic glass varies by protection level and vehicle type. It costs between $10,000 and $18,000 for A4-level ballistic glass, while doubling or even tripling for comprehensive A9 (B6+) to A12 protection.
Can windows roll down with bulletproof glass?
Yes, Alpine Armoring's power windows can roll down, with the distance varying by vehicle model. We engineer each installation to allow the maximum travel permitted by the door volume, ranging from approximately 2 inches on luxury sedans like BMWs and Mercedes-Benz to 10 inches on GM vehicle makes, including Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC. This is made possible through heavy-duty motors and reinforced mechanisms. Alpine Armoring's engineering calculates weight distribution and performs stress analysis, ensuring the impact of bulletproof glass on vehicle performance remains manageable.
Is bulletproof glass legal to install?
Yes, it’s legal for civilians nationwide to install bulletproof glass, though local permits may apply. Materials Alpine Armoring uses for bullet-resistant vehicle glass include tempered and laminated glass, polycarbonate, acrylic, specialized plastics, and various interlayer films such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl-acetate (EVA), or polyurethane.
Contact Alpine Armoring for certified bulletproof car glass consultations.