The increase in armored weight usually ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 pounds for standard civilian protection packages, with the protection level, vehicle size, and the materials used for armoring taken into account. In addition to advanced ballistic glass and high-strength ballistic steel, Alpine Armoring’s engineers use lightweight armoring materials, including composite materials such as ceramics, Kevlar®, Dyneema®, Spectra®, and various types of polyethylene, to minimize impact while maximizing protection of their armored vehicles.
Understanding the difference in armor level weight is crucial – A4 (CEN B4) protection against handguns adds less weight than A9 (B6+) protection against AK-47 rounds or A12 (B7+) armor-piercing resistance. Armored door weight contributes significantly, with reinforced structures adding 150 to 300+ pounds per door, depending on the protection level and vehicle type. Advanced composites reduce the weight of armored vehicles while maintaining their protection standards.
Alpine Armoring calculates armor additions to keep the armored vehicles within their Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), ensuring safe operation. Exceeding GVWR compromises vehicle balance and handling, braking performance, and overall safety. Our armored vehicle suspension upgrade systems include advanced technologies such as hydropneumatics, torsion bars, and/or coil springs. These heavy-duty components effectively manage the added weight of armored vehicles, while brake system reinforcement ensures optimal stopping power. Run-flat inserts enable continued vehicle mobility after tire damage while handling increased loads from custom armor design specifications.
The impact on armored vehicle performance includes changes in fuel efficiency after armoring – typically, an 8-15% reduction corresponds to a 10% weight increase. Advanced lightweight materials help reduce the added weight by up to 40% compared to traditional ballistic material solutions. Our custom armor design balances protection with performance, ensuring vehicles remain practical for daily use. Contact Alpine Armoring for specific weight calculations based on your vehicle model and desired protection level – our engineering team provides detailed specifications for informed decision-making.