A Cadillac Escalade Might Be The Next Presidential Limousine

The Secret Service is exploring new options for the presidential motorcade. Photos shared recently hint at a Cadillac Escalade becoming the next “Beast” limousine.

Secret Service Director Sean Curran met with General Motors (GM) executives last week in Michigan.

They discussed advancements for next-generation armored vehicles at GM’s Global Design Center in Warren.

The development process for these specialized vehicles began last September. GM secured a contract worth $14.8 million, potentially expanding to $40.8 million through 2029.

Currently, President Trump frequently travels in an armored Chevrolet Suburban. A shift to the Escalade would continue GM’s decades-long tradition of presidential protection.

GM CEO Mary Barra recently met with President Trump. A source indicated they discussed armored SUVs during their conversation.

“As threats evolve, we continue to explore emerging technologies,” the Secret Service stated. They aim to ensure maximum safety for their protectees with enhanced protective vehicles.

The Secret Service remains tight-lipped about specific features and timelines. A spokesperson noted they’re “too far out to speak to any specific costs or dates.”

The protective vehicle development requires years of engineering work. Technical security teams collaborate to create the sophisticated framework for these defensive vehicles.

What Might The Next Limousine Feature?

The current presidential limousine reportedly weighs around 10 tons. It features foot-thick doors and carries extra blood matching the president’s type.

Presidential limousines create their own sealed internal environment. This protection shields occupants from external threats while in transit.

Rumors suggest the current Beast has spy-movie capabilities. Oil slicks and smoke screens have been mentioned, though the Secret Service never confirms specifics.

GM’s presidential vehicle relationship extends back decades. Before Cadillacs, presidents rode in various Lincoln models including Cosmopolitans and Continentals.

The presidential fleet transition began with Ronald Reagan. His administration introduced the Cadillac Fleetwood, which also served President Clinton.

Since 2001, every president has used custom Cadillacs. Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden all benefited from GM’s specialized protective designs.

The most recent Beast iteration entered service in 2018. It replaced the previous version which had been in use since just before Obama’s inauguration in 2009.

The Secret Service continuously evaluates emerging technological advances. Their post noted they’re exploring innovations that could enhance their armored fleet.

The photo released by the Secret Service included presidential insignia. A Cadillac Escalade displayed the presidential flag next to a large presidential seal image.

Presidential transport has evolved significantly since earlier eras. Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s “Sunshine Special” represents how far protective vehicle technology has advanced.

With threats constantly evolving, the Secret Service remains vigilant. Their ongoing partnership with GM ensures America’s leaders receive cutting-edge protection while on the move.