Top 5 Presidential Cars: A Look Into the Expensive, Top-Secret and Armoured Limo World

In a world where power and prestige are often displayed through choice of transport, the cars of global leaders are much more than mere vehicles. They are symbols of national pride, security fortresses on wheels, and technological marvels.

The recent meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden brought an intriguing aspect to light—the fascinating and secretive world of presidential cars.

Here's a list of 5 of the world's most powerful leaders and their rolling fortresses.

Russian President - Aurus Senat

The Aurus Senat, Russia's addition to the world of presidential vehicles, demonstrates the country's engineering capabilities while highlighting its desire for self-reliance in state transportation. This move represents a significant shift from Russia's previous reliance on foreign luxury cars for official use. The Senat, while reflecting national pride, is also a symbol of Russia's evolving automotive industry.

Designed with security as a top priority, the Aurus Senat is built to withstand a range of threats, from explosives to ballistic assaults. Its defensive features are in line with the global standards for high-security state vehicles, offering a level of protection expected for a head of state. The integration of advanced communication technologies further enhances its role as a mobile command unit, essential for presidential duties.

President Putin's specific model of the Senat, though similar to the commercial versions, includes specialized security enhancements. These modifications are tailored to meet the unique requirements of presidential transport. The vehicle combines practicality with security, featuring large doors for ease of access and CCTV capabilities for external monitoring, a common practice in state vehicles of this caliber.

Internally, the Aurus Senat balances luxury with functionality. It offers a spacious and secure environment with emergency exit options, a standard practice in vehicles of this class. The balance of comfort and tactical design is a nod to the dual nature of a presidential vehicle - as a symbol of status and a tool for ensuring safety.

In terms of size and weight, the Senat aligns with the trend of large, heavy-duty vehicles used for state purposes. Its substantial dimensions are reminiscent of past Soviet-era state vehicles, signifying a continuation of Russia's legacy in state transport. The Aurus brand's ambition to enter European and Middle Eastern markets with both armored and non-armored models indicates a desire to compete in the global luxury car segment.

The introduction of the Aurus Senat into the global arena of high-security, luxury state vehicles highlights Russia's participation in this niche market. It stands as an example of how countries invest in specialized transportation to ensure the safety and comfort of their leaders, reflecting a common global priority among nations.

Australian Prime Minister - BMW Commonwealth 1

In the sphere of state vehicles, Australia's approach, particularly with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's armoured car, the 'Commonwealth 1', reflects a blend of luxury, technology, and high-level security. The vehicle in question, part of a fleet of BMW 7 Series High Security cars, epitomizes the modern requirements of state transportation.

Australia’s fleet of these specialized vehicles, which includes nine BMW 7 Series and several armored BMW X5 SUVs, is tailored to provide varying degrees of protection. While the precise security details of the Prime Minister's vehicle remain undisclosed, it is speculated to be among the higher tiers of protection. These levels range from VR4, capable of withstanding handgun fire, to the more formidable VR7/9, designed to resist grenade attacks.

The cost for such high-security features exceeds $500,000 per vehicle, a price that reflects not only the material and technological investments but also the stringent security regulations in Australia. These vehicles are subject to government oversight due to their advanced protective capabilities.

In terms of defense, the BMW 7 Series High Security models are far from standard. They feature armored plates up to 10cm thick and windows made of 6cm thick polycarbonate, combined with a reinforced safety cell construction. Despite this heavy-duty protection, practical elements like the functional tailgate are retained.

The drivers assigned to these vehicles undergo specialized training in Germany, focusing on defensive and evasive driving techniques, ensuring they are equipped to handle any situation.

Technologically, these cars are equipped with advanced features like gas sensors, an independent oxygen supply, fire extinguishing systems, and bullet-resistant Michelin tires designed to maintain functionality even when damaged. These tires allow the car to travel at speeds of up to 80km/h in compromised conditions.

Performance-wise, these BMWs are designed to manage their significant weight without compromising agility. Powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, producing 400kW and 750Nm of torque, the vehicle can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 6.2 seconds. To accommodate the added weight, which totals 3675 kilograms, BMW has reinforced the chassis and adapted the suspension and gear ratios. The doors, each weighing around 250kg, are equipped with special motors to aid operation. In case of emergencies, the car can be fitted with explosive charges to quickly remove the windscreen.

The interior of these vehicles matches the luxury of any BMW 7 Series, with a range of customization options available. Additional safety features include bullet-resistant fuel tanks. Each vehicle is meticulously hand-built in Germany and undergoes extensive independent testing, ensuring reliability and performance despite the extensive modifications.

American President - Cadillac 'The Beast'

Turning our attention to the United States, "The Beast" stands as a remarkable example of American automotive engineering and presidential security. Developed by Cadillac on the GMC TopKick platform, this mammoth vehicle, weighing between 15,000 and 20,000 pounds, was commissioned by the Secret Service in 2014. General Motors poured an impressive $15.8 million into its development, a clear indication of its importance and complexity.

Debuted in 2018, "The Beast" is a blend of luxury and fortress-like protection, marrying the sleek design of Cadillac with the robustness required for the security of the President of the United States. It embodies more than just aesthetic appeal; its defense capabilities are among the most advanced in the world. The vehicle is equipped with features like hermetic sealing to guard against chemical attacks, run-flat tires, night-vision capabilities, and even electrified door handles for added security. Its armor plating, comprising a mix of aluminum, ceramic, and steel, includes 8-inch-thick walls and 5-inch-thick windows, offering near-impenetrable protection.

In scenarios of medical urgency, "The Beast" serves as a mobile blood bank, carrying the specific blood type of the sitting president. Despite its considerable heft, the vehicle can accommodate seven passengers and is built on a sturdy truck chassis, ensuring both durability and performance. Over time, "The Beast" has evolved into more than just a state car; it's a symbol of the American presidency, adapting and updating with each new administration.

"The Beast" has been a fixture at numerous high-profile events, ranging from state funerals to the Daytona 500. Its international presence is also notable, having been part of presidential visits to countries like Ireland and the UK. The car boasts an array of specialized features, including bullet and blast-resistant panels, a protected fuel tank, firefighting equipment, and oxygen supply, reinforcing its role as a mobile command center. This impressive array of features showcases "The Beast" as not only a vehicle of transport but also a beacon of American strength and technological prowess on the global stage.

Chinese President - Hongqi N701

As we look towards China, the Hongqi N701 emerges as a notable entrant in the realm of state limousines, most recently gaining attention during President Xi Jinping's visit to Hong Kong. This vehicle, with its imposing aesthetics, represents a blend of authority and elegance, characteristic of China's approach to state vehicles.

The N701's design features a striking large chrome grille, polished wheels, and a raised roof designed for flag poles, all contributing to its majestic appearance. Its dimensions, with a length exceeding five meters, include a notably long bonnet and a shorter rear, culminating in a design that proudly bears the iconic Hongqi (Red Flag) emblems.

The production of the N701 is remarkably exclusive, with only 50 units planned over the next decade, adding to its allure and prestige. While the official name and many specifications of the vehicle remain confidential, there is speculation that it might be powered by a V12 or V8 engine, in line with Hongqi's traditional offerings.

A unique feature of the N701 is its rear design, including dual exhaust pipes, a shark fin antenna, and notably, a large rear window. This aspect deviates from the typical design of state limousines, which often opt for smaller windows for increased security. The presence of armor and the markings of "Hongqi" and "China First Auto" in Chinese characters further accentuate its stately charm.

In terms of design and engineering, the N701 showcases a grille that integrates smoothly with the headlights, hinting at a possible SUV chassis base, reminiscent of the United States' "The Beast." The N701 continues Hongqi's tradition of prestigious models, such as the smaller N501, often used for Xi's state visits abroad, and the CA7600L (L9), which has been the primary state limousine since 2009, equipped with a 408 hp V12 engine.

Additionally, the Hongqi L5, with a shorter wheelbase, serves foreign dignitaries and offers choices between a V12 and a 4.0 V8 turbo engine. For parades, Hongqi has specialized models with open roofs and special platforms, with the parade version of the N701 expected to debut in 2025.

The N701 thus stands as a symbol of Hongqi's enduring commitment to creating state vehicles that embody luxury and a commanding presence on the road, reinforcing its status in the global landscape of elite, exclusive state transportation.

North Korean Supreme Leader - Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard

In North Korea, Kim Jong-un's choice of state vehicle, the Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard, represents a blend of opulence and high-level security. This car, embodying the pinnacle of civilian vehicular armor, is rated at VR10 level, providing resistance against hardened steel core bullets, and boasts an ERV 2010 explosion resistance certification.

The engineering behind the S600 Guard is a marvel in itself. It integrates steel between the body structure and the outer skin, meticulously designed to cover critical overlap points for maximum protection. The windows, heavily laminated and reinforced with polycarbonate, provide splinter defense. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with underbody armor to safeguard against explosive threats.

Under the hood, the S600 Guard is powered by a bi-turbo, 6.0-liter V12 engine, derived from the standard Maybach S600 but tuned to deliver a potent 523bhp. This powerful engine drives a vehicle that extends 20cm beyond a long-wheelbase S-Class saloon, accommodating the extensive defensive enhancements.

Despite the standard Merc-Maybach weighing around 2,335kg, the Guard variant is significantly heavier due to its comprehensive armor, though the exact weight remains undisclosed. Priced at around €470,000 plus VAT, the S600 Guard maintains the exterior appearance of a standard Maybach, ensuring discretion while offering the luxurious features expected of the brand, such as massaging leather seats.

The acquisition of the S600 Guard by North Korea is controversial, as it violates United Nations sanctions against luxury goods. Investigations have uncovered a secretive network used to transport these vehicles through multiple countries. Daimler AG, the parent company of Mercedes, has stated that it has not done business with North Korea for over 15 years and adheres to EU and US embargoes, with strict export controls in place.

Kim Jong-un's fleet reportedly includes the more lavish Mercedes-Maybach Pullman Guard and a Rolls-Royce, highlighting North Korea's capability to sidestep international sanctions. This not only demonstrates the regime's affinity for luxury but also raises concerns about its ability to circumvent global restrictions, a worrying implication for areas beyond automotive procurement.

Now, I turn to you, the readers: among the impressive state vehicles we've discussed, which do you think is the coolest? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!