People who run the
risk of getting shot at in public often turn to companies that offer
bulletproof mobility solutions. One such brand is AddArmor, founded by Special
Ops and other law-enforcement veterans who specialize “in turning vehicles of
all kinds and prices into mobile safe-rooms”, as they put it.
This particular
example is a US$ 350,000 Cadillac Escalade equipped with the Executive Protection
Package, which adds further customization within the cabin, focusing not just
on security, but luxury features, too. After all, those rich (and important
enough to have such enemies) individuals appreciate their comfort.
The vehicle uses
special 5 cm thick ballistic glass capable of stopping high-powered
rifle rounds, not to mention 9 mm and .44 Magnum rounds. Opt for the Full
Protection Package and you’ll get a windshield with anti-fog/de-icing elements,
embedded antennas for GPS and radio, and solar coatings.
In order to make
sure that performance doesn’t take a hit, AddArmor used carbon-composite panels
that are said to be 10 times stronger than ballistic steel and weigh 60 percent
less, offering the Escalade 360-degree protection. Its engineers then raised
the SUV’s roof by 11 cm to increase headroom, before adding an
Alcantara suede headliner and LED lighting.
Also available is a
32-inch smart TV integrated into the retractable divider, a 360-degree camera
system, onboard Wi-Fi, DirecTV, Apple TV and HBO, Sony surround sound system
and iPod/iPhone compatibility. Equally impressive are all the countermeasures
that can be deployed if the vehicle comes under attack. For starters, you have
access to gun ports so that you can retaliate if somebody opens fire on you.
Then there is the anti-jamming satellite communications system, active
mine/explosion detection, 360-degree night vision camera and a global ‘911’
phone and data system monitored by a Global Special Operations Command Center
(GSOC), wherehighly trained personnel will stay with you on the line until the
threat has been mitigated.
This particular
Escalade is also equipped with red/blue law-enforcement emergency lights, a
siren and PA system, hidden lockboxes, run-flat tires, a heavy-duty suspension
and larger brakes.
