In the last few years, there has been a worldwide rise in the requirement for bulletproof vehicles. According to Valuates Reports, in 2018, the market size of these cars was valued at $15.96 billion, with a projection of an increase to $21.97 billion by 2026. As per data, this trend was apparent in Europe, and the market will continue to grow throughout the forecast period. In India, too, the demand for bulletproof vehicles is catching-up in the fourth gear. The country is witnessing a double-digit growth as per a 2019 AFP report that stated the annual worth of bulletproof cars market at $150 million (roughly ₹1,000 crores).
In fact, to meet the surge in demand for armoured vehicles leading automobile manufacturers have launched a wide range of bulletproof cars. For instance, Land Rover, in March 2019, released the 2020 Range Rover Sentinel with shielded glass and ballistic steel plate inside its body. Even other luxury car providers like Mercedes, Audi, BMW, Toyota and more offer in-house bulletproofing options.
One reason attributed to the advancement of bulletproof vehicles in India is the rising security challenges arising from the increasing agitations and crime rate. This has resulted in civilians’ belonging to an elite group, renowned and the new breed of industrialists, and public figures preferring such carriers. Riding or driving in an armoured passenger vehicle provides them with a greater sense of safety, security, and power.
But before thinking of purchasing or converting an existing car into a bulletproof carrier, let’s understand how these strong protective steel-bodies wheels are made.
For that, let’s get started with the basic know-how. First, an armoured automobile is heavier than a regular car. Thus, when converting an existing vehicle, ensure that the structure is sturdy to withstand the additional weight and still function well. Though this can be managed by adding extra hinges yet in comparison, these autos are bulkier. Second, make sure the modification into a bulletproof passenger car should be untraceable, both inside and outside.
Another point to remember is that various parts of the car will go through a rigorous transformation to ensure the passengers’ fool-proof protection. Hence, always opt for a company with the expertise, experience and technology. For instance, JCBL is one such firm that has a team of dedicated professionals who first design materials required using a 3D modelling system and then do independent tests to secure shielding from any probable danger.
Moreso, during conversion, from the glass to the tires, engines, frame, doors, etc., everything goes through a layer of added protection. To explain further, a bulletproof vehicle uses specialized self-supporting or self-sealing run-flat tires that can temporarily carry the weight of the car under lower tire pressure.
Engine power also plays an integral role in the modification process of a bulletproof car. Thus, its sturdiness, along with protecting everything under the bonnet, i.e. the battery, fuse box and ECM, should be armoured. For ballistic resisting the glass, a transparent shield is installed at the front, rear and sides. The thinnest protection option available is 3/4-inch, while the thickest is of 2-inch glass. This range can shield from 9mm handgun shots to a shot from a high-powered rifle.
Additional features like sirens, dual door locks, spotlights, operational windows etc., are some other transformations that can make for a fully protective wheel.
Must Read:- The Future Of Vehicles: More Private Cars Looking At Bulletproof Options
Once the conventional car is converted into a bulletproof wheel, independent tests of each modification are conducted using globally approved materials. On satisfaction of the manufacturers, the stripped vehicle gets into the assembling stage, wherein the best quality standards of armouring are followed to make the car ready for the roads ahead.
So, when converting your car into an armoured vehicle, do follow the above aspects. Also, don’t forget to tell us about the modification you would like to know more about in the comments below.