How Armored Vehicles Work: Technology, Security, and Certifications

How Armored Vehicles Work: Technology, Security, and Certifications Armored vehicles are not just reinforced cars; they are security solutions designed to protect passengers from attacks, kidnappings, and other threats. Politicians, business executives, diplomats, and public figures rely on advanced technology to ensure maximum protection. But what really makes an armored vehicle safe? And what details make the difference between a high-quality and a subpar armored car? Materials and Technology: Every Detail Matters One of the most critical components of an armored vehicle is the glass, often underestimated. High-quality bulletproof glass must provide adequate protection without affecting visibility or driver comfort. If made with low-quality materials, it can cause headaches, nausea, and eye fatigue over time due to optical distortions that alter depth perception and light refraction. That’s why we use only European-certified glass, ensuring maximum safety and driving comfort. Beyond the glass, the entire car body is reinforced with ballistic steel and advanced materials capable of absorbing the impact of gunfire or explosions. Tires also play a crucial role: armored vehicles are equipped with run-flat tires, allowing the vehicle to keep moving even after being punctured or shot, giving the driver time to reach a safe location. Waiting Times: Why Patience Is Required for an Armored Vehicle Purchasing a brand-new armored vehicle requires patience, as waiting times can range from 6 months to 3 years, depending on the model and level of protection required. Factory-armored vehicles, such as Mercedes Guard, BMW Protection Series, and Audi Security, undergo a meticulous manufacturing and testing process to ensure the highest level of security. For aftermarket armoring, waiting times may be shorter, but the process remains complex. The vehicle is completely disassembled, reinforced with special materials, and reassembled with high precision to ensure that the additional weight does not compromise performance or reliability. Protection Levels and Certifications: What Do BR4, BR6, and BR7 Mean? Armored vehicles are classified based on international standards that certify their level of protection. The most recognized certifications in Europe and the U.S. include: VPAM (Vehicle Protection Anti-Attack Measures) – A German classification system evaluating ballistic resistance. EN 1063 – The European standard for bullet-resistant glass. NIJ (National Institute of Justice) – The American standard for ballistic protection. BR (Ballistic Resistance) – A classification indicating an armored vehicle’s ability to withstand different types of firearms. Here’s what the BR levels mean: BR4 – Protects against small-caliber handguns like a .44 Magnum. BR5 – Resistant to high-caliber rifles like the 5.56 mm M16. BR6 – Can withstand assault rifles such as the AK-47, commonly used in attacks. BR7 – Maximum protection, capable of stopping armor-piercing bullets and military-grade threats. How Much Does It Cost to Maintain an Armored Vehicle? Owning an armored vehicle isn’t just about the initial purchase—it also involves significant maintenance costs. The additional weight of armoring, faster wear on components, and the need for specialized parts make running costs far higher than for a standard vehicle. The first factor to consider is fuel consumption. An armored vehicle is much heavier, meaning even high-powered engines struggle to maintain efficiency. For an armored SUV or luxury sedan, fuel efficiency can drop to 6-8 km/l (14-18 MPG) compared to 10-12 km/l (23-28 MPG) for a non-armored model. Brakes and suspension systems also wear out much faster. Armoring can add up to 2 tons of extra weight, requiring frequent brake replacements that can cost between €3,000 and €10,000 ($3,500 to $11,000 USD) per full brake change. Reinforced suspensions are crucial for handling the added weight and can cost up to €15,000 ($16,500 USD) over the vehicle's lifespan. Another major cost is run-flat tires, which are not regular tires but specially designed to withstand punctures and gunfire. Depending on the model and certification, a full set of armored tires can range between €5,000 and €12,000 ($5,500 to $13,000 USD) and usually wear out faster than conventional tires. Maintenance Cost Differences Between a B5/B6 and a B7 Vehicle B5 and B6 vehicles provide excellent protection while keeping maintenance costs lower than B7 vehicles, which are significantly heavier. A B5/B6 armored vehicle weighs between 2.5 and 3.5 tons, whereas a B7 model can exceed 4.5 tons. This extra weight drastically impacts brakes, suspension, engine performance, and transmission longevity. For a B7 vehicle, oversized brakes with reinforced calipers and discs are required, costing up to 50% more than those on a B6 model. The suspension system must also be reinforced further, increasing maintenance costs. Additionally, B7 models often include self-sealing fuel tanks and advanced chemical protection systems, which require periodic inspections and add extra expenses. In terms of annual maintenance costs, a B5 or B6 vehicle typically costs between €15,000 and €30,000 ($16,500 to $33,000 USD) per year, whereas a B7 vehicle can easily exceed €50,000 ($55,000+ USD) annually, due to higher wear and specialized replacement parts. Interesting Facts About Armored Vehicles There are several fascinating facts about armored vehicles that many people don’t know: Increased weight: A fully armored luxury sedan can weigh up to 2 tons more than its non-armored counterpart. This requires more powerful engines, reinforced suspension systems, and upgraded braking systems to maintain performance and maneuverability. Advanced locking systems: Some models feature automatic locking systems that prevent doors from opening even in an accident, ensuring passengers remain protected until security teams arrive. Chemical attack protection: High-end armored vehicles include air filtration systems to protect occupants from toxic gases and chemical attacks. Oxygen reserves: Some advanced models come with built-in oxygen tanks, allowing occupants to breathe safely in an emergency. Self-sealing fuel tanks: If punctured by gunfire, these tanks automatically seal to prevent explosions or fuel leaks. Conclusion: European Quality for Maximum Security Armored vehicles are the ideal solution for those who need to travel safely without compromising on comfort and performance. However, not all armored vehicles are the same—using low-quality materials and components can compromise security and even create health issues for long-term use. That’s why we rely exclusively on European-manufactured vehicles and components, ensuring the highest level of security in every detail. From certified ballistic glass to high-performance armored tires, every element is designed for superior protection. If you’re considering an armored vehicle for personal or professional use, choosing the right provider is essential to ensure a long-lasting and reliable investment. Security and quality are not optional—they are a necessity.

ARMORED VEHICLES & TRANSPORTATION