Volvo unveils XC90 Armoured; can survive ballistic explosions

The all-new Volvo XC90 Armoured version has been unveiled globally. It is a seven-seat crossover, which is capable of surviving even a bomb blast. Behind this sturdy and hulky makeover, there are around two years of hard work of the carmaker’s team. 

The car is rated for 'VR8' protection, which means it is capable of providing ballistic protection from every direction. Although the ability to survive explosions is no less than commendable, the car will fail to sustain the impact of full copper alloy jacket bullets. 

XC90 Armoured comes with 50mm thick windows and 10mm steel armour. It comes with a concealed hatch, which is placed in the boot while a fire suppression system is equipped in the engine bay. The carmaker further claims that it has been armoured carefully and that’s why the car shares the same exterior view like the regular XC90. Moreover, it weighs around 4.5 tonnes.

The company has not spoken much on engine performance. However, the coaster is based on the T6 AWD, which is capable to provide a maximum power of 315 hp along with a peak torque of 400 Nm. The brakes, as well as the suspension, have also been upgraded.

Volvo Special Vehicles’ head of marketing, Stephan Green said, “Production is carried out with extreme diligence, which is imperative in order to fulfill the exceptionally high requirements placed on this class of security product. We strive to ensure that the car retains its properties despite the extensive armouring."

Speaking of its price, XC90 Armoured comes with a price tag of £450,000 in the UK that is equivalent to $817,700. Also, the brand will start the deliveries from 2019’s end.

Besides the fully AC90 Armoured, the brand will also provide lightly-armored variants of SC60. With a cheaper price tag, the lightly-armored variant cannot offer the same protection as that of XC90 Armoured. The carmaker has confirmed that this duo will primarily be there to capture the Latin American market.