Volvo has armed selected XC90 and XC60 models for high-risk security jobs with its new Armoured range.
For extra heavy-duty protection, Volvo offers the XC90 Armoured (heavy). Fitted with 1cm-thick steel armour and 5cm-thick bulletproof glass in its toughest guise, this version of the Volvo XC90 Armoured is said to be resistant to both ballistics and explosives.
This suit of armour brings the car’s total weight up to 4.5 tonnes with five occupants on-board, which is more than two tonnes heavier than a regular Volvo XC90. Accordingly, the company has upgraded the suspension and braking systems to cope with the extra heft.
Based on the T6 version of the SUV, it’s powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 310hp and 300Nm of torque. The base car is capable of 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds, but expect this extra weight to hamper that.
Once the regular underlying XC90 is built in Torslanda, Sweden, it’s then sent to Germany for specialist firm Trasco Bremen GmbH to kit out with the heavy-duty protection equipment.
Those looking for a lighter-armoured vehicle can opt for a car with thinner armour and glass, known as the Armoured (light) and available in both XC60 and XC90 sizes.
Specific details haven’t been confirmed, but these vehicles are primarily designed to protect against handguns — with Latin America and Europe the key markets. Weight increases by about 250kg over the regular XC60 and XC90 models, which is again compensated for by improved brakes and suspension.
Stephan Green, Volvo Cars Special Vehicles marketing director, said: “We are proud to be able to offer these armoured cars. With our armoured cars, we can provide vehicles with a high level of personal security for individuals who require heightened protection.”
Sales of the heavy-duty XC90 Armoured will begin towards the end of 2019, with the lighter-spec variants due to go on sale next year. You’ll have to speak to Volvo directly to find out more in terms of pricing and specification.
