DS 7 Vauban: Armored Hybrid Model Now in Series Manufacturing
Armored cars are more than just fancy SUVs with fancy features for the elite. They are lifesavers for threatened individuals, providing them with a layer of protection against harm. A company has now started to outfit the biggest SUV from DS with armored features in a series.
The DS7 SUV feels like it's making a tiny hop when the driver presses the gas pedal on this rainy day at the Mortefontaine test track in Paris. This is not a joke - it could potentially save lives. The driver's grinning face speaks volumes about the success of the modification done by WELP, the French company responsible for the upgrade.
With the words "Safety" emblazoned on the car, it's not surprising that this model is a bit heavier than its other siblings. The goal is to protect passengers from reckless truck drivers at intersections, rear-end collisions at high speeds, and even an attack by a hammer, pistol, or machine gun. The people inside should be able to escape unharmed and reach the next safe zone quickly.
While the historical model built by Marshal Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban in the 17th century was immobile, the DS7 is highly mobile. It can reach a top speed of over 200 kilometers per hour and accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers in just 6.1 seconds, providing an excellent getaway from danger.
DS believes that the quick distance from the danger zone is crucial for protecting passengers. That's why they chose the latest armored vehicle with a two-heart drive. The 1.6-liter gasoline engine with 200 hp is combined with an 113-hp electric motor on the rear axle, providing an instant maximum torque of 320 Newton meters. This powerful combination gives the armored car the ability to escape danger swiftly.
Unlike the historical Vauban model, the DS7 is agile. Its 4.59-meter length maneuvers like a compact car, even in tight curves at the test track. The French president's DS7 Elysee is heavier and slower, thanks to stronger armor plating and a 20-centimeter longer body. The quick escape offered by the DS7 must be preserved.
WELP has already teamed up with DS in the past, and this partnership inspired both companies to bring out armored vehicles. WELP also arms other cars, such as the Cadillac Escalade, the Toyota Land Cruiser, the Audi A8, or even the Mercedes Sprinter, but always as an exclusive solution.
To reduce the underpinnings, WELP has taken over parts of a former Stellantis plant in Hermoncourt near the German border. DS builds the vehicles in standard trim 80 kilometers away in Mulhouse, then transports them to Hermoncourt for armoring.
VPAM 4 Protection Level
The DS7 needs to be able to withstand attacks before it can escape danger. That's why WELP arms the car with Kevlar, 22-millimeter glass instead of the usual 4-millimeter glass, polyethylene plates, and Swedish armor steel at vulnerable points. This armoring makes the car impervious to firearms up to .357 Magnum.
If the owner wants some extra protection, WELP offers sirens, speakers, blue lights, and even an oxygen tank that can supply fresh air inside in case of a tear gas attack.
To add an extra layer of protection, WELP can provide mine-resistant floors or thinker armored glass, up to level 7. This ensures that .357 Magnum bullets and armor-piercing projectiles of 7.62 millimeters remain outside the car. The engineers at WELP regularly test vehicles in their own ballistic test area.
Targeted Clientele - Diplomats, Celebrities
With such extra safety features, the price of a DS7 would be several times higher than the 165,000 euros requested by DS for the "basic" Vauban model. "As we reinforce the frame, suspension, axles, brakes, and tuning, the cost increases dramatically," says Demaret, the engineer from WELP. Additionally, the driver needs a heavy goods vehicle driver's license.
The Vauban, from the Stange, stands out as it weighs just 164 kilograms more than a regular DS7. This makes it suitable for ordinary customers. The ideal target market for this vehicle are security personnel and diplomats in less hazardous countries. According to manager Brebion, "not every person requiring protection needs the highest level of protection." He specifically mentions the wives and children of famous football players, TV stars, and pop artists who want to safeguard themselves from abductions or robberies.
Inside the Fortress
Surprisingly, the Vauban's interior is quite comfortable, in contrast to its imposing appearance. This bulletproof car can be equipped with all leather, audio systems, and wood finishes available in the non-bulletproof sister models. Even unique color choices and embroidered headrests are feasible. It's possible that a Paris Saint-Germain player might want to include the team's colors and logo inside.
"We're open to many special requests," guarantees Demaret. Considering WELP's experience with unusual equipment requests from Bugatti, this is understandable. However, one option not available in the DS7 is a solid steel roof instead of a panoramic sunroof. This is because a layer of Kevlar armor exists underneath the passengers' heads, ensuring protection against any potential airborne threats.
Read also:
- The armored DS7 Vauban, a product of Stellantis and French car manufacturers, is now available as a series model, offering increased safety for upper-class individuals and diplomats.
- Stellantis' partnership with WELP, a French company specializing in armored vehicles, has resulted in the conversion of Hybrid cars such as the DS7 Vauban, providing protection against traffic accidents and potential crimes.
- While some may argue that armored cars like the DS7 Vauban are merely luxury SUVs, they serve a significant purpose in preventing harm, especially in high-risk environments where crime or terrorist attacks are prevalent.
- DS, along with other French car manufacturers, is committed to producing vehicles with advanced safety features and protection levels, catering to the unique needs of celebrities, diplomats, and those in the upper class seeking additional security.
