President Trump’s new limousine has officially entered service as the commander-in-chief was spotted using the vehicle in New York over the weekend.
Looking far more modern than its predecessor, the new presidential limo sort of resembles a stretched version of the Cadillac CT6. However, there are a number of differences as the ‘Beast’ has a unique grille and more traditional headlights. The car is also based on an entirely different platform and is heavily armored.
Little is known about the limo, but Fox News reports the government’s contract with General Motors calls for a dozen limos to be built for $15.8 (£12 / €13.4) million. At least two of them were spotted in New York on Sunday.
President Trump, as seen from Marine One, arrives in New York City for #UNGA pic.twitter.com/p6ZVoamnaS
— Dan Scavino Jr. (@Scavino45) September 23, 2018
The Secret Service has been tight-lipped about the model, but reports have suggested the car is based on a truck platform and weighs between 15,000 and 20,000 pounds (6,803 and 9,071 kg). The model is also rumored to accommodate up to seven people as the rear passenger compartment has room for the president and four advisers.
The new limo replaces the previous Beast which has been in service since 2009. Given the age of its predecessor, it’s likely the new limo has a more modern technology.
New presidential tank/Cadillac the Beast in action in New York pic.twitter.com/R0wu6Btnvu
— Jennifer Epstein (@jeneps) September 24, 2018
Trump isn’t the only world leader to receive a new limo this year as Russian President Vladimir Putin showed off the Aurus Senat at his inauguration in May. The model was recently detailed at the Moscow Motor Show and it features a Rolls-Royce inspired design and two engine options.
The entry-level Senat has a 4.4-liter V8 engine and electric motor that work together to produce 590 hp (439 kW / 598 PS). The car can also be equipped with a 6.6-liter V12 that reportedly produces 848 hp (632 kW / 859 PS).