The armored vehicle industry has come a long way since its humble beginnings. What started as ad-hoc modifications for notorious criminals has evolved into a sophisticated industry protecting executives, diplomats, and families worldwide.
The 1930s: Gangster Era Origins
The first commercially armored vehicles emerged during the Prohibition era in America. Notorious figures like Al Capone had their vehicles fitted with steel plates and thick glass to protect against rival gangs. These early armored cars were crude by today's standards, with visible modifications that made them instantly recognizable.
World War II: Military Advances
The Second World War accelerated armor technology significantly. Military requirements drove innovation in ballistic materials, and many of these advances would later be adapted for civilian use. Lightweight armor alloys and laminated glass were developed during this period.
The 1960s-70s: Presidential Protection
Following the assassination of President Kennedy, the Secret Service dramatically upgraded presidential vehicle protection. This era saw the development of more sophisticated armoring techniques and the integration of emergency systems. The infamous "Beast" presidential limousine traces its lineage to these developments.
The 1980s-90s: Corporate Demand
As global business expanded into emerging markets, corporate executives became targets for kidnapping and assassination. This created a new market for civilian armored vehicles that could provide protection while maintaining the appearance of standard luxury cars.
The 2000s: Advanced Materials
The introduction of advanced composite materials like Dyneema and improved Kevlar formulations revolutionized the industry. Vehicles could now achieve higher protection levels with less weight, maintaining better performance characteristics.
Today: Smart Armoring
Modern armored vehicles integrate sophisticated technology alongside traditional ballistic protection:
- GPS tracking and geofencing
- Biometric access controls
- Encrypted communication systems
- Night vision and thermal imaging
- Remote monitoring capabilities
- Automatic fire suppression
The Future
The industry continues to evolve with advances in:
- Transparent armor that's thinner and lighter
- Electric armored vehicles with instant torque for quick escapes
- AI-assisted threat detection
- Self-healing armor materials
At BulletproofCars.com, we combine time-tested armoring techniques with cutting-edge technology to deliver the most advanced protection available. Contact us to learn how we can protect you with the latest in armoring innovation.