The demand for armored vehicles is fast growing as VIP’s and celebrities seek stylish rides which can protect them from blasts and bullets at the same time. Armored vehicles are not only restricted to security companies and due to the high demand, there are more armored vehicles on our roads today.
If you are a businessman who owns an armored Audi, you need to be aware of the do’s and don’ts while using an armored vehicle to ensure you get the maximum security you seek. Let’s have a look at what you need to be aware of when using an armored vehicle and what you need to avoid.
What are your protection needs?
Before getting an armored vehicle, it is always recommended to be functional and practical about your protection needs rather than depending on what appears in the movies. You need to have in mind how many passengers your vehicle needs to occupy at one particular time. If you simply need your vehicle to drive you around low risk areas, then that will determine the kind of protection package you will get. Ask yourself what protection features will be most important to you before settling for a particular armored car.
What is your project budget?
There is nothing wrong with getting a top of the range armored vehicle with maximum security. However, you need to work with a project budget you will be most comfortable with. Armored vehicles differ in cost depending on the protection packages they possess. For example, bulletproof vehicles will cost more than regular armored vehicles. You also need to think how you plan to finance for your armored vehicle. Will you pay cash or lease it? Think how much you are willing to allocate each month towards your armored vehicle payment every month.
Are there any other cars in the class?
Before settling for a certain car model, check if there are other armored car options in the same class. For example, if you set yourself to get an armored Audi, check with your dealer if he has more than one class of armored Audi. Get a vehicle that has the specifications that you need and don’t just settle for any available armored cars. You can go ahead and ask the armored car dealer whether they can customize a particular car model that you have in mind. This way you get a car that not only suits your needs but one that will keep you safe.
What will be the cost of ownership?
It is important to note that armored cars do not depreciate similarly like normal vehicles. However, when getting an armored vehicle you have to calculate the overall cost of owning a certain type of vehicle. Some armored cars are cheaper when you order them but they end up costing you more in terms of maintenance and insurance. Find out from your dealer what will be the cost of ownership of your armored vehicle and decide if you are comfortable with the costs before ordering for one. It is a shame some business people end up getting an armored vehicle just because it sounds cheap only to sell the car later on because they are unable to keep up with the ownership costs.
Do you get a test drive before purchasing your ideal armored vehicle?
Just because you are comfortable with the various features in a certain armored car does not mean you should get it before getting a test drive. Arrange with your dealer for a test drive and get to experience the car for yourself. Today’s armored cars are stronger, safer and lighter and they can be used to protect you as you go about your daily activities.