In our August newsletter, we discussed the Diplomatic Security Service, and GM Defense had completed Phase III in developing next-generation armored Heavy-Duty Sports Utility Vehicles. Basically, the State Department had awarded a contract to GM to build a purpose-built civilian armored SUV using the Heavy-Duty Suburban as the platform.  

We also mention that a similar contract was awarded to Battelle Memorial Institute to develop an aftermarket armoring solution for the Ford Expedition. We have yet to hear or read much about the progress or testing of the Ford Expedition. But their website mentions that they are building them, and they are on the road. If you scroll down to the bottom of the attached URL, you will find a video about the Expedition manufacturing process.  

The Suburban is an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vehicle; in fact, GM stated that an additional long-term value is expected through a five-year, 50,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty and extended vehicle lifespan as compared to the current two-year, 2,000-mile warranty typical of the multi-stage aftermarket armoring process.  The Expedition is an aftermarket vehicle. Also, we could not find the cost of the Ford Expedition.  

We (ISDA) would like to see the test results of both vehicles.