Not everyone dreams of owning a bulletproof vehicle, but for some people it’s a vital safety measure. These specialized cars provide high-level protection for individuals and groups who need extra security on the road. Typical Armormax® customers include corporate executives, athletes, politicians, business leaders, celebrities, security firms, and anyone who perceives a threat and values the peace of mind that comes from an armored vehicle.
Armormax vehicles are engineered to be among the safest cars on the road. They can endure gunfire and attempted carjackings, and they offer significantly greater protection in the event of a collision. The idea behind this safety is that attacks can occur anytime and anywhere. An armored car acts like a protective cocoon around the occupants, shielding them against bullets and even certain explosive blasts.
In a world of growing uncertainty, purchasing an armored car is becoming increasingly common. The most popular armoring packages typically range from about $25,000 to $140,000 USD – and that’s in addition to the cost of the vehicle itself – depending on the level of customization. Some vehicle models are easier (and cheaper) to modify, while others require specialized work that can drive up the price. Whether you armor a brand-new car or retrofit a used one, the end goal of added protection remains the same.
A full-size luxury SUV like this Cadillac Escalade is a popular candidate for armoring, offering ample space to integrate ballistic protection without compromising comfort. If you explore the pre-owned market, you can find many armored SUVs, sedans, and trucks available, often at a lower cost than armoring a new vehicle from scratch. However, before buying any used armored car, remember to verify its history—by obtaining a comprehensive vehicle history report (such as a Revs Check report in some regions)—to ensure you know about any past accidents or issues. This kind of report provides essential insight into a car’s background, allowing you to make an informed purchase without even being physically present to inspect the vehicle.
Bulletproof Car Cost – What Factors are Involved in Pricing ?
The cost of bulletproofing a car depends on several key factors:
First is the desired level of protection. Are you guarding against simple handgun threats, high-powered rifles, or even armor-piercing rounds and RPGs? The level of threat you anticipate will heavily influence the type of armor and materials required. This is a personal choice that depends on the dangers you expect to face.
Secondly, the type of vehicle being armored matters. Certain models take more time and effort to armor than others. For example, armoring a large SUV or a European luxury car might cost about 10–20% more than armoring a standard sedan, due to differences in design and the complexity of components. The make and model of your vehicle will impact labor and material costs.
Thirdly, consider how much of the vehicle you want to armor (the coverage area). To save on expense, some clients choose to reinforce only specific sections of the car—often just the windows, or the windows plus the doors—while leaving the roof, floor, and support pillars unarmored. Limiting the armor coverage in this way can significantly reduce the overall price, but it also means certain parts of the vehicle would remain vulnerable.
Fourth, the location where the armoring work is done can affect the price. In some countries, additional expenses such as shipping armored components, importation taxes, and higher costs for skilled labor can make armoring a vehicle much more expensive. Depending on where you have the work done, prices can vary by as much as 30% compared to standard rates.
To put these factors into perspective, reinforcing just the doors and windows of a vehicle can cost anywhere from about $18,000 to $45,000. A full-vehicle armoring job (covering all critical areas) can easily reach $100,000 or more. For an accurate quote tailored to your specific vehicle and protection needs, it’s best to consult an armoring provider such as Armormax®. They can evaluate your situation and recommend the appropriate package to keep you safe.
Windows
Standard car windows made of tempered glass will shatter easily under attack. In an assault, the first target is usually the vehicle’s windows, and weak factory glass poses an immediate danger to everyone inside. Installing bullet-resistant windows is therefore one of the most important upgrades in an armored car. These specialized windows are built with layered materials and come in varying thicknesses—typically ranging from about 1 to 3 inches thick, depending on the level of protection needed.
If you’re the DIY type, you might wonder about reinforcing your car’s glass yourself. It is possible to make bullet-resistant glass using layers of polycarbonate and acrylic materials. By laminating polycarbonate onto automotive glass (and even adding sheets of leaded glass for extra bulk), you can significantly increase a window’s resistance to bullets. This kind of retrofit can improve protection, though achieving true “bulletproof” performance is very difficult without professional-grade manufacturing.
There are also different kinds of ballistic glass available. Many people are familiar with one-way bulletproof glass from movies and TV – the kind that lets someone inside shoot out, but is extremely resistant to incoming fire. This glass is usually very thick and can withstand heavy impact on one side, but no material can guarantee it will stop every single round. For more general safety, a common choice is using dense safety glass like advanced tempered glass or laminated glass. These may not stop high-caliber bullets, but they are designed not to shatter into dangerous shards upon impact. In other words, even if they crack, they will hold together to protect the occupants from flying glass fragments.
Learn more about Bulletproof glass here
Doors
Bulletproof windows alone aren’t enough if the doors themselves remain vulnerable. While armored glass might stop rounds from penetrating into the cabin, a standard car door can be pierced by something as common as a 9mm handgun round. In other words, if only your windows are bulletproof, a determined attacker could simply fire through the unarmored door panels to breach the vehicle.
A car door outfitted with bullet-resistant glass and panel armor, shown after withstanding multiple gunshots during a ballistic test. The shattered spiderweb pattern indicates the glass absorbed the impacts without failing. Armoring cars has become a significant business, especially in regions where violent crime or kidnapping rates are high. People need to protect themselves and their families wherever they travel. Even major automakers like Ford, Ferrari, and BMW have started offering factory-built armored versions of certain models to meet this growing need. The goal of any armored door design is to appear completely normal from the outside, yet be virtually impenetrable from the inside.
When professionals bulletproof a car door, the first step is to strip down the interior and remove components like trim panels, leaving the door’s internal shell exposed. Steel plates (or sometimes lightweight ballistic composite panels) are then installed inside the door frame and into the empty cavities of the door and its pillars. Depending on the desired level of security, a combination of ballistic fiber (such as aramid or ballistic nylon) and proprietary composite materials (like Armormax’s composite) is used to reinforce the structure without adding excessive weight. It’s crucial that the armored doors don’t become too heavy; otherwise, they could strain the hinges and make the doors difficult to open or close during everyday use.
Additionally, the upper frame of the door and even the roof pillars can be lined with steel and ballistic fiber to eliminate any weak spots around the door frame. When designing a fully armored vehicle, considerations like blast resistance (to handle explosions) and fire resistance are also important, since attacks might involve more than bullets. Depending on the materials and coverage, armoring all the doors of a car can start around $8,000 per door and go up from there. This investment ensures that both the windows and the doors work together to form a strong barrier against intruders and gunfire.
Doors and windows alone can cost from $18,000 to $45,000. The total cost of bulletproofing a vehicle can get up to $100,000. Contact Armormax® here for specific quotes on your needs for armoring packages to specific products.
Tires
Standard tires are extremely vulnerable to gunfire—bullets will shred them quickly, leaving you with one or more flat tires. Attackers often target the wheels first because they know a car can’t drive far or escape effectively on flat tires. Even the most powerful armored engine won’t help if your vehicle can’t move, so tire protection is a critical aspect of any bulletproof car.
When customizing your bulletproof vehicle, equipping it with run-flat tires or other reinforced tire systems should be a top priority. Technically, there’s really no such thing as a completely “bulletproof” tire in the literal sense, because tires are made of rubber and no rubber can fully stop a bullet. Instead, the strategy is to use special inserts and tire designs that allow the vehicle to keep driving for a while after the tires are punctured. This way, even if a tire is shot out, you won’t be left stranded on the spot.
For example, one common solution is installing a solid polymer ring, often called a run-flat insert, inside each wheel. A fleet of various armored vehicles outside an armoring facility. Many armored cars utilize run-flat tire inserts – essentially hard polymer rings fitted inside the tires – that allow continuous driving even after tire punctures. These internal “donuts” can support the vehicle’s weight if the tire loses air pressure, allowing you to continue driving at moderate speeds. With quality run-flat inserts, an armored car can often travel around 60 more miles (about 100 km) at up to 60 mph even after its tires have been shot out or punctured by debris.
Outfitting a vehicle with run-flat tires or inserts does add to the overall cost. Depending on the model of the car and the size of the wheels, you might spend anywhere from about $200 up to $1,500 per tire for this upgrade. For instance, installing a run-flat system on an 18-inch wheel might cost roughly $600–$700 per tire, whereas a larger 22-inch wheel could run closer to $900 or more each. These costs can add up, but they are a worthwhile investment to ensure your armored car can still get you to safety even with damaged tires.
Customizing a flat tire can cost you as much as $200 to $1500 per tire, depending upon the model of a car and size of the rim. For example, if you are buying a tire for a 18-inches rim, the tire and run, you will be spending around $650, and the 22-inch tire might cost roughly $900.
Bulletproof Engines
It’s easy to forget about the engine when thinking of armored protection, because the engine is tucked away under the hood. However, that doesn’t mean it’s safe from attack. One well-aimed shot into the engine block or critical components (like the radiator or battery) could disable the vehicle in an instant. For that reason, protecting the engine compartment should be on the checklist for anyone serious about creating a fully secure, bulletproof car.
That said, shielding the engine doesn’t mean encasing it in solid steel. Adding too much heavy armor over the engine can throw off the vehicle’s balance and dramatically increase weight on the front axle, negatively affecting handling and performance. Armoring the engine bay is often a balance between protection and practicality. Lightweight composite armor or Kevlar® blankets can be used to give some ballistic protection to the engine and radiator without overloading the car. If you’re unsure about how much armoring is appropriate for under the hood, it’s best to consult with professionals who can recommend materials that stop bullets and shrapnel while keeping weight in check.
Fortunately, most modern engines are powerful enough to handle a bit of added weight from armor plating or shielding around the engine compartment. Depending on the options you choose, installing a bullet-resistant lining or coating in the engine bay typically costs on the order of $5,000 to $10,000. This might include reinforced plating for the firewall (the wall between the engine and the cabin), ballistic fiberglass or Kevlar® linings, and explosion suppression systems. The result is an engine that is much less likely to be taken out by a few bullets, ensuring your car can keep running when you need it most.
However, most engines these days are powerful enough to handle heavy shielding. Depending upon the choice, the bulletproof coating of the engine can roughly cost you, ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.
Floor
One of the more frightening threats in certain regions is the possibility of explosive devices, like mines or grenades, being used under a vehicle. You certainly don’t want your car to explode due to a bomb placed beneath it. To address this risk, you can install a blast-resistant floor in your vehicle. Essentially, the underside of the car can be armored with special materials to absorb or deflect the force of explosions and to stop projectiles from breaching the cabin from below.
Typically, an armored floor involves layering the vehicle’s undercarriage with sheets of ballistic nylon and other composites that can catch shrapnel and dissipate explosive energy. Even the interior carpeting can be replaced with a tougher, fire-resistant material to provide an extra layer of protection. These changes are usually invisible from the inside of the cabin; you might still see a normal carpet or floor mat on top, with the protective materials hidden underneath.
The cost of armoring the floor depends on the size of the vehicle. A large SUV or truck has a bigger floor area, so adding blast protection will use more material (and labor) than a smaller car would. Generally, you can expect to invest around $2,000 to $5,000 to armor a vehicle’s floor. This upgrade dramatically lowers the chance that a roadside bomb or grenade fragment could penetrate into the passenger compartment from below. For many security-conscious drivers, that added safety is well worth the cost.
An SUV floor might cost more because of its large surface compared to a hatchback. You can expect to invest something from $2,000 to $5,000 protecting your car underneath.
Best Bulletproof Cars to Buy Right Now
Choosing to buy a fully bulletproof vehicle outright isn’t for everyone; it’s usually an option for a niche group of buyers who prioritize security above all else and have the budget to match. For those interested in ready-made armored vehicles, here’s a list of some bulletproof cars available on the market today that you might consider:
BMW X5 Security Plus
BMW has long been involved in the armored vehicle market, and the X5 Security Plus is one of its flagship offerings. This SUV looks like a regular BMW X5, but it’s built to withstand serious firepower. It is advertised as capable of stopping bullets from weapons like the AK-47, thanks to its reinforced body panels and thick bullet-resistant glass. In fact, BMW claims that the X5 Security Plus meets a stringent level 6 ballistic protection standard, meaning it can handle multiple high-velocity rounds. An armored BMW X5 Security Plus comes with a hefty price tag – expect it to cost around $128,000 for a factory-new model with full protection features.
Ford Raptor
Ford Raptor (Armored Pickup Truck)
The Ford Raptor is an absolute beast of a pickup truck, and when armored, it becomes both rugged and highly secure. Armored Ford Raptors are popular for those who need off-road capability along with protection. These trucks often include features like smoked bulletproof glass, run-flat tire systems, and blast-proof reinforcement on critical components (for example, fortified door hinges and an armored fuel tank). Some armored Raptors even integrate night vision cameras to help detect threats like armed attackers in the dark before they get too close. An armored Ford Raptor pickup truck. This heavy-duty vehicle is equipped with features like bullet-resistant glass and reinforced tires, making it capable of withstanding gunfire and even certain explosions while keeping its occupants safe. Pricing for an armored Ford Raptor typically starts at around $118,000 for a base model conversion. The exact cost can go up with additional custom security features or higher protection levels.
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Maserati Quattroporte
If you’re looking for an armored car with Italian luxury and speed, the Maserati Quattroporte fits the bill. This elegant sedan can be outfitted with armor without sacrificing its stylish appearance or high-performance engineering. Armored versions of the Quattroporte usually come with options for powerful V6 or V8 engines, so even with added weight from the armor, the car remains swift and responsive. In terms of protection, a bulletproof Maserati Quattroporte will shield you and your passengers from common firearms — it’s built to stop rounds from handguns (like 9mm bullets) and can be upgraded to handle rifles as well. The interior, known for its luxury, is typically kept intact, so you ride in comfort and style behind the security of ballistic steel and glass. To own an armored Quattroporte, you should be prepared to invest around $145,000. It assures safety from firearms and 9mm bullet shots. Maserati Quattro Porte can be yours if you can invest in one.
Genesis G 90 Sedan
The Genesis G90 is a full-size luxury sedan from Hyundai’s premium division, and it has also joined the ranks of cars available with armoring upgrades. The stock G90 is already equipped with a powerful engine and advanced tech features, and when armored, it becomes a discreet yet formidable security vehicle. Armored Genesis G90 sedans often feature 360-degree all-around protection, meaning the floor, roof, doors, and glass are all reinforced to handle various threats. With the highest levels of armoring, a G90 can protect its occupants from assault rifles, grenades, and small explosive devices, all while the passengers enjoy the plush comfort and amenities of a high-end sedan. An armored Genesis G90 typically starts at roughly $142,000, making it a relatively affordable entry in the fully bulletproof luxury car segment, considering the level of protection it offers.
Mercedes Benz S-Guard
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing factory-armored cars for heads of state and VIPs, and the S-Guard is their top-of-the-line armored sedan. The S-Guard is essentially an S-Class Mercedes that has been engineered with built-in armor from the ground up, directly at the factory. It’s designed to handle extremely serious threats, including military-grade firearms and explosive blasts. Owners of an S-Guard can expect protection against everything from 9mm handguns to high-powered rifles like the AR-15, .308 Winchester, and even certain armor-piercing rounds. The windows on the S-Guard are multi-layer ballistic glass, several inches thick, and the car’s body is reinforced with a special steel and ceramic composite armor. Despite all this protection, the car retains the luxury features and appearance of a standard Mercedes S-Class, so it doesn’t stand out as an armored vehicle. However, this level of security comes at a steep price: purchasing a new Mercedes-Benz S-Guard can cost in the ballpark of $1.5 million.
Invest in Your Safety
In summary, acquiring an armored car can be a life-saving investment for those who face elevated security risks. Beyond the obvious physical protection it provides, a bulletproof vehicle offers peace of mind, especially when traveling through regions or situations where danger is a possibility. Knowing the various factors that influence the price of armoring – from the level of protection, to the vehicle model, coverage areas, and location of service – will help you make an informed decision that meets your safety needs without compromising on quality. It’s important not to cut corners and end up with a poorly done armor job that could fail when it matters most, or a car that’s overly heavy and uncomfortable to drive. Instead, aim for the right balance of protection and practicality that fits your budget.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward greater personal security on the road, it may be time to look into armoring your vehicle or purchasing an armored car. For a personalized quote on a specific vehicle and protection package, reach out to an armored vehicle specialist. You can contact Armormax® for expert guidance – either through their website or by calling 801-393-1075 to speak with a professional about your needs. An experienced armoring team will help design a solution tailored to protect you and your loved ones, so you can travel with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to bulletproof a car?
The price of bulletproofing a car varies widely based on the vehicle’s size, make/model, and the protection level you require. Adding basic ballistic panels to a small sedan might cost a few tens of thousands of dollars, whereas fully armoring a large SUV can exceed $100,000. It’s best to consult with an armoring professional for an accurate estimate, since they can recommend options tailored to your vehicle and threat level.
How much does it cost to bulletproof a truck?
Fully armoring a vehicle can cost upwards of $100,000, and bulletproofing a large truck or SUV tends to be on the higher end of that range. Trucks have more surface area and typically need more materials (and labor) to armor than a smaller car would. In general, expect an armored truck to be quite an investment — often comparable to or greater than the cost of armoring a luxury sedan — due to the truck’s size and the heavier-duty protection it may require.
After reviewing these high-end options, many people find that customizing your own car with bulletproof materials can be a more practical approach. The dedicated armored models like those listed above are expensive, and they may offer more protection than necessary for the average person with security concerns. If you live or work in a high-risk area, you might be better off investing in armoring upgrades for a vehicle you already own (or a standard vehicle you plan to buy), rather than spending a fortune on a factory-armored luxury car. Up-armoring a personal vehicle can be tailored to your specific needs and usually costs less overall than buying a brand-new bulletproof vehicle. Should you decide to pursue this route, make sure to consult with a reputable mechanic or armoring professional at the outset to plan the project properly. They can guide you on what modifications are feasible and ensure that the end result is both secure and comfortable to drive.
