Volvo Unveils Armored XC90 SUV, Available To Order Now

After receiving numerous requests over the past few years to develop and build an armored version of the XC90, Volvo has finally come through.

Work on the car started just over two years ago, and now the finished product features a certified VPAM VR8 rating, which means it has 360-degree ballistic resistance as well as explosive resistance – a great way to put customers’ minds at ease.

“We are proud to be able to offer these armoured cars. With our armoured cars, we can provide vehicles with a high level of personal security for individuals who require heightened protection,” stated Volvo Special Vehicles marketing exec, Stephan Green. “The XC90 Armoured (heavy) with VR8 protection rating (VPAM BRV 2009/ERV 2010) enables us to offer a car that provides a high level of protection while retaining the car’s fundamental properties. Potential customers include security services who would use the car to transport high-profile individuals.”

This armored version of the XC90 is based on the T6 AWD Inscription model. Once built, the car makes its way from the Torslanda plant in Sweden to TRASCO Bremen in Germany, a company that specializes in building high-quality vehicles with high protection ratings.

“Production is classified, with stringent procedures and oversight in place in order to attain the stipulated ballistic requirements,” added Green.

Also read: Inkas Gives 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 A 360-Degree Armor Upgrade

Protecting you from bullets and explosives is the high-strength steel armor, some 10 mm (0.4 inches) thick. Meanwhile, the thickness of the glass can be up to 50 mm (1.96 inches). In total, the armor adds approximately 1,400 kg (3,086 lbs) to the weight of the XC90, meaning that once you load the car up with five occupants, you’re looking at an overall weight of 4,490 kg (9,898 lbs) – the Swedish crossover is of course fitted with an uprated suspension and new brakes.

Buyers can already place their order for an armored XC90, with first customer deliveries scheduled for the end of this year.

The automaker will also be selling a “light” version of an armored car, built on either the XC60 T6 AWD Inscription or XC90 T6 AWD Inscription. These cars are intended for Latin America and Europe and sales are expected to commence in the first half of 2020.