Israel Acquires Armored Audi A8 Security Fleet for Prime Minister
Israel has purchased eight armored Audi A8 Security limousines for the prime minister at 3 million shekels each, featuring VR9 ballistic protection and advanced survival systems.
Israel has acquired a fleet of eight armored Audi A8 Security limousines for its prime minister, costing approximately 3 million shekels each. Unlike standard luxury models, these official state vehicles are fully converted into mobile bunkers in a specialized European workshop, undergoing around 400 hours of industrial modification before delivery. Additional adjustments were implemented to meet Israeli security standards.
VR9 Ballistic Protection and Four-Ton Weight
According to international automotive reports, the Audi A8 Security complies with the stringent VR9 ballistic protection standard, while its windows—combining high-strength polycarbonate—meet the even higher VR10 standard. This provides complete resistance against short-range machine gun fire and armor-piercing steel bullets.
In addition, the vehicle features HG85 standard armor capable of absorbing explosive device and grenade detonations beneath the chassis and on the roof. Heavy armor additions, including heat-formed steel and aramid fibers, push the limousine's weight to approximately 3,875 kilograms, and up to 4.5 tons in specific security configurations.
To manage this exceptional weight, the vehicle is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine derived from the sporty S8 model, producing 571 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. Despite its massive weight, the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h.
Survival Systems and Combined Luxury
Anti-terror protection extends far beyond passive armor. The limousine includes an automatic fire suppression system with spray nozzles located beneath the engine hood, in the wheel arches, and near the fuel tank, which also self-seals in the event of a bullet puncture.
In the event of a chemical attack, the vehicle is completely sealed and equipped with a fresh air system supplying oxygen from built-in tanks. Run-flat tires allow driving for 80 kilometers at speeds up to 80 km/h following a total puncture, and pyrotechnic hinges can blast the heavy doors—weighing around 160 kg each—outward at the touch of a button to ensure immediate evacuation.
The rear cabin is completely isolated from the driver's compartment by a soundproof partition and features advanced encrypted communication systems, enabling secure calls on the move alongside executive leather massage seats, displays, and a dedicated refrigerator.
