If you’re the President of the United States, you don’t just get a car. You get The Car. Security is a big deal when you’re constantly in the public eye, just ask the Pope and his customised Popemobile.
Donald Trump’s presidential ride, famously nicknamed The Beast, is next level. He’s in the UK for his second state visit today, and yes, The Beast will be along for the ride.
What makes The Beast so special?
This isn’t your average limo. Built during Trump’s first term for around $1.5 million (£1.1 million), it’s also been used by Joe Biden. Commissioned by the US Secret Service in 2014, it looks like a stretch Cadillac XT6 but inside, it’s actually based on a Chevy Kodiak truck.
We’re talking 20,000lb (9,071kg) of bulletproof, blast-resistant, bio-attack-proof tech. The Beast reportedly has night vision, tear gas canisters, electrified door handles, and even windows around 3 inches thick. Inside, it has leather seats, cup holders, space for seven people, and a fridge stocked with the president’s blood type. It can even handle secure nuclear launch codes if needed.
The Secret Service calls it the most technologically advanced protection vehicle in the world. Yeah, it’s basically a tank disguised as a limo.
How does The Beast get around?
Wherever the president goes, The Beast follows. It is shipped via military cargo planes, usually a US Air Force C-17, and while abroad, it flies both the American flag and the host country’s flag. In the UK, expect to see it rocking both the Stars and Stripes and the Union Flag.
