How Much Does It Cost to Maintain an Armored Vehicle?

Owning an armored vehicle is not just about purchasing it—it also requires significant maintenance to keep it in top condition. The added weight of the armoring, faster wear on components, and the need for specialized parts make operating costs significantly higher than those of a regular vehicle. One of the biggest factors affecting maintenance is weight. A standard luxury sedan weighs about 1,800-2,000 kg (4,000-4,400 lbs), while a factory-armored version can weigh up to 3,500 kg (7,700 lbs) for B6 protection and over 4,500 kg (10,000 lbs) for B7-level vehicles. This extra weight directly impacts fuel consumption, component wear, and overall vehicle performance. Fuel Consumption: How Much Does an Armored Vehicle Use? An armored vehicle is significantly heavier, meaning even high-powered engines struggle to maintain optimal performance, leading to higher fuel consumption. An armored SUV or luxury sedan can average 6-8 km/l (14-18 MPG), compared to 10-12 km/l (23-28 MPG) for a non-armored version. The most common engines used in these vehicles are V8 and V12, often with turbochargers or superchargers to compensate for the added weight. However, despite these modifications, an armored vehicle will always consume 30% to 50% more fuel than its standard counterpart. The Importance of Bulletproof Glass: Protection and Comfort One of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of an armored vehicle is the bulletproof glass. High-quality armored glass is essential not only for stopping bullets but also for ensuring clear visibility and comfort for long drives. Depending on the protection level, glass thickness ranges from 22 mm to 80 mm (0.87 to 3.15 inches), and a full set of high-quality armored glass can cost between €5,000 and €20,000 ($5,500 - $22,000 USD). A fascinating detail is that low-quality armored glass can cause headaches and nausea for drivers and passengers who spend extended periods inside the vehicle. Poorly manufactured glass creates optical distortions that strain the eyes and brain. This is why we use only certified European-made glass, ensuring maximum protection without compromising comfort. Brake and Suspension Wear: How Much Does Maintenance Cost? With an additional weight of 1,500-2,500 kg (3,300-5,500 lbs) compared to a standard car, the brakes and suspension systems in an armored vehicle wear out much faster. A complete brake replacement can cost anywhere between €3,000 and €10,000 ($3,500 - $11,000 USD), since it requires oversized brake discs and reinforced calipers to handle the increased mass. Suspensions also require frequent maintenance, and reinforced systems can cost up to €15,000 ($16,500 USD) over the lifetime of the vehicle. Run-Flat Tires: A Necessary Investment Run-flat tires are a crucial safety feature for armored vehicles, allowing them to continue driving even after being punctured or shot. However, they wear out faster than standard tires and can be quite expensive. The cost of a complete set of run-flat tires ranges from €5,000 to €12,000 ($5,500 - $13,000 USD), depending on the model and certification level. Some B7-level vehicles even use wheels with polymer inserts, allowing them to keep moving even if the tires are completely destroyed, increasing the chances of escape in high-risk situations. Maintenance Cost Differences Between a B5/B6 and a B7 Vehicle The maintenance costs of an armored vehicle depend heavily on its protection level. A B5 or B6 vehicle offers a high level of security while keeping weight relatively lower, which means reduced wear on components and lower maintenance costs compared to a B7 vehicle. A B5/B6 armored vehicle typically weighs between 2,500 and 3,500 kg (5,500-7,700 lbs), leading to fuel consumption of 7-10 km/l (18-23 MPG). The brake replacement costs range from €3,000 to €7,000 ($3,500 - $7,500 USD), and suspension maintenance can cost between €7,000 and €15,000 ($7,500 - $16,500 USD). The annual maintenance costs of a B5/B6 armored vehicle typically fall between €15,000 and €30,000 ($16,500 - $33,000 USD), making them a practical choice for individuals who need security without excessive upkeep expenses. A B7-level vehicle, however, is a completely different story. Weighing over 4,500 kg (10,000 lbs), it requires significantly stronger brakes, a reinforced suspension system, and a more powerful engine, all of which increase maintenance costs. Fuel consumption drops to 4-7 km/l (10-16 MPG), making it much less efficient than lower-protection models. Brake replacement costs can reach €12,000 ($13,500 USD), while suspension overhauls may cost between €12,000 and €25,000 ($13,000 - $27,500 USD). Additionally, B7 vehicles often include self-sealing fuel tanks and advanced air filtration systems, requiring regular inspections and adding to the total expense. Because of these factors, the annual maintenance cost of a B7 vehicle can easily exceed €50,000 ($55,000+ USD), making it a suitable choice only for those who require maximum protection and have the budget to support its upkeep. Conclusion: Balancing Security and Cost Choosing an armored vehicle means investing in personal security, but it’s important to consider maintenance expenses as well. A B5 or B6 vehicle strikes a solid balance between protection and manageable costs, making it a preferred choice for business executives, VIPs, and security-conscious individuals. However, a B7 vehicle is a necessity for those facing extreme risks, such as government officials, diplomats, and high-profile figures, who need the highest level of security available. While offering superior ballistic protection, B7 vehicles require significantly higher maintenance budgets, making them a long-term investment that should be carefully evaluated. If you’re considering which level of protection is right for you, working with industry professionals is the best way to ensure that your armored vehicle remains a secure and cost-effective solution over time.

ARMORED VEHICLES & TRANSPORTATION