General Motors has earned a solid reputation for its role in government contracts, particularly in the U.S. Cadillac has been the go-to for presidential state cars since the 1980s, with its name closely tied to security. Recent whispers suggest the U.S. Secret Service could replace its iconic Suburbans with rebadged Cadillac models, hinting at a shift in the fleet’s future.
A recent image from the Secret Service shows an armored Escalade by GM Defense, similar to the Chevrolet Suburban HD Shield. Unlike “The Beast,” a custom Cadillac built on a truck chassis, these vehicles have traditionally been based on the Suburban for its heavy-duty build and reliability.
“As threats evolve, we explore new technologies to ensure the highest level of safety for our protectees,” said the Secret Service. Director Sean Curran’s recent meeting with GM executives indicates that advancements in armored SUV technology are underway, reinforcing their dedication to innovation in high-security vehicles.
GM’s $14.8 million contract with the Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service will fund a new version of “The Beast.” Though details on timing are scarce, this partnership will likely play a key role in shaping the future of vehicles designed for VIP protection.
Suburbans, especially the HD model, have been unavailable to consumers since 2014 when the 2500HD production ended. Cadillac hasn’t yet released an “HD” Escalade, although their vehicles do offer some heavy-duty features. This raises a question: will military-grade vehicles eventually make their way into the consumer market?
While the contracts are confirmed, it’s unlikely a civilian version of the armored Escalade will hit showrooms anytime soon. However, for those seeking military-grade protection, aftermarket options for vehicles like the Escalade ESV could serve as a potential substitute.
