A closer look at a bulletproof Fortuner that VVIPs use [Video]

The Toyota Fortuner, as we all know, is the first choice of people in positions of power and those who are popular. It is also one of the most popular vehicles to receive bulletproof treatment in India upon the demand of such high-profile clients. Recently, a video showing one such bulletproof Fortuner was shared online. The video showcases in extreme detail all the differences between a standard and a bulletproof Toyota Fortuner SUV.

Bulletproof Toyota Fortuner

The video of this bulletproof Toyota Fortuner has been brought to us courtesy of Tushar Babbar on YouTube. In the video, he showcases a white-colored Toyota Fortuner SUV which, from the outside, looks like a normal Fortuner. However, it is from the inside that it has been completely transformed and made bulletproof to protect the high-profile clientele who order this SUV.

The presenter first introduces the owner of the shop who has created this bulletproof Toyota Fortuner. He starts by showing the exterior of the SUV and then displays the bulletproofed door. The glass of the SUV’s door has been entirely replaced with an extremely thick one to protect against bullets. The presenter mentions that the door panels also have reinforced steel behind them to add to the protection. Apart from this, the inner portion of the door sills gets a steel cladding wrapped in leather to help the door create a tight seal.

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500

Is it certified as bulletproof?

Next, the presenter showcases the bulletproof windshield of the SUV. He then inquires with the shop owner about the certification of this vehicle. To this, the owner states that the car is certified to withstand the bullets of an AK47 machine gun as well as an SLR gun. He also explains that the car is equipped with run-flat tires which can travel about 200-250 km even after being hit by a bullet.

Suspension upgrade

Next, he adds that the suspension of this bulletproof Fortuner has been modified to accommodate the additional 1000 kgs of weight added by the bulletproof glass and steel. The presenter then asks the owner whether only bigger cars can be made bulletproof or if any car can undergo this process. To this, the owner answers that generally, SUVs are preferred for bulletproofing because of their raised suspension.

The presenter and the owner also discuss other important details about bulletproofing a vehicle. He first mentions that even the roof of this SUV has been reinforced with steel. He adds that the door hinges have also been replaced to withstand the heavy weight of the newly armored doors over time. Lastly, he mentions that the entire vehicle is protected, except the floor.

Bulletproof cars: Maintenance and performance

Lastly, the presenter inquires about the maintenance and performance of bulletproofed vehicles. The owner replies that after the process of armoring a vehicle is completed, it generally reduces the performance due to the added weight. He adds that the mileage of the vehicle also significantly drops. Lastly, he mentions that the maintenance becomes very expensive as the suspension and tires need to be changed after a set number of kilometers.

Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered