Ballistic resistance refers to what type of gunfire the armored car is designed to protect against. Ballistic resistance is defined and organized according to levels of protection. There are several internationally recognized standards of ballistic resistance (NIJ, CEN, UL), and many armored car companies have designated their own levels of ballistic resistance that roughly correspond to the internationally recognized standards. The standards measure the caliber, mass, and velocity of the projectile, as well as the distance and angle that it is fired. As an example, the CEN standard begins at level ‘B4’, which is effective against hand guns, and goes all the way up to ‘B7’, which is effective against armor piercing rounds. It’s important to know and understand that an armored car is bullet resistant and not bullet proof. Special protection vehicles offer extensive protection against handguns and rifles. However due to the complex nature of vehicles design and contemporary weapon technology, 100% percent protection cannot be guaranteed

Lighter is better!

Traditional armoring systems involve adding heavy steel which involves severe modifications and welding and switching out the glass with very thick heavy bullet resistant windows. This added weight and thickness severely compromises the vehicles handling, braking and acceleration and its top speed. Not to mention functionality and aesthetics. Usually windows do not function, and if they do it’s a bare minimum. Serviceability and warrantees are often very problematic and the stress of the added weight decreases the vehicles effective lifespan. Special training on how to drive is strongly suggested as the characteristics will have changed dramatically. Lastly these systems are wholly inappropriate for our domestic market.

We offer multiple ultra light weight solutions to mitigate the different threat levels from a variety of hand guns and rifles. Acceleration, braking and handling stay true as the added weight is nominal on a pound per square foot basis. All our cars retain functional windows, sunroofs, transparent panoramic roofs and tailgates while providing the most discrete ballistic protection.

As can be seen in our galleries, by use of our hand crafted ultra light weight armor systems we are able to provide discrete protection to a very wide variety of vehicles. Although we specialize in higher end European cars, we have designed and fabricated systems on a wide range of cars, from a 2018 Toyota Highlander to a Porsche Panamera Turbo. The most popular choices are the full size GM SUVs (Cadillac Escalade, GMC YUKON) and Mercedes S class. Please call me for a private consultation to discuss your vehicle choice. As we are located in the heart of NYC’s automobile district chances are we have a relationship with the local dealer and have worked on your intended vehicle.

Opaque armor refers to armor that is place within the body of the armored car- in the doors, pillar posts, side panels, kick-panels, firewall, engine compartment, headers, cargo area, rear wheel arches, rear cargo door, roof and floor. Opaque armor can be made of many different materials, including high-hardened ballistic steel, ballistic nylon, synthetic fibers, and other composite materials.

Here at Manhattan Armor our focus is on ultra light weight protection and utilize only the best fiber and composite based ballistic material that can be precisely integrated into your vehicle adding minimum weight while providing maximum protection.

Transparent armor refers to the windows which are now considered armor that is now placed within the window frames of the armored car. Transparent armor is usually composites of glass and polycarbonate substrates and laminated with inter layers. The industry term for the transparent armor is Bullet Resistant Glass (BRG). Traditional armored vehicles use very thick heavy BRG, often these windows have compromised optics, are so heavy that when combined with the steel plates used on the opaque portion of the door, create door functionality issues. Even with upgraded door hinges, many of these cars have “Risers” or “shims” to help the door close and often wear out relatively quickly. Another big issue is window functionality. On these heavy cars window operation is extremely limited. Perhaps only the driver’s door a few inches at best. On all Manhattan Armor cars we provide substantial functionality on all windows while retaining the original factory switch to operate them.

An armored car needs to appear as close to the original to be most effective. At Manhattan Armor we strive to maintain the highest details of your vehicle’s aesthetic so that only you will know the difference. Remember the need to be discrete and blend is the goal.

We can assist with both Domestic and International shipping needs. We suggest using enclosed transport for all end to end over road deliveries. Export requests may be subject to both domestic and international regulations and we can advise and assist with appropriate documentations.

Roof Protection

At Manhattan Armor we take pride in providing the most original appearing protected roof. If your vehicle has a sunroof, it will be enhanced with a custom designed and fabricate ballistic (BRG) insert that will allow transparency and full functionality. If your vehicle is equipped with a panoramic roof, this too will have a custom designed and fabricated transparent ballistic (BRG) insert. On these units due to the weight of the new unit functionality may be curtailed or disabled. However all sunshades and curtains will continue to operate.

Floor Protection

This is required to protect against IEDs and other incendiary devices. Opaque armor is usually concealed under the carpet in armored cars to protect against explosions. Not recommended for most of our local clients however may be required in conflict areas. .

Battery Protection

All our vehicles have protected batteries. On certain units its advisable to maintain the original battery and fabricate a ballistic wrap, on others we replace it with an Optima Red Top gel cell. On certain cars we offer a dual battery option, or back up battery. With this option the original battery is protected and a second battery (Optima Red Top Gel Cell) is integrated with a special relay and switch allowing it to be charged and available for an internal jump start.

Tire Protection

Many cars today are equipped with run flat tires which will provide the best ride and handling experience. On cars that are not so equipped we have very cutting edge inserts that will allow your car to drive with Zero air pressure.