It is not simply the navy that depends on GM Protection for automobiles. Different authorities departments are additionally clients of GM’s division accountable for armored automobiles and numerous navy merchandise, together with the Division of State which has simply positioned a brand new order for armored SUVs.

The order consists of a 10-year contract for the availability of an indefinite variety of automobiles, capped at a most spend of $300 million. The precise automobile ordered is an armored heavy-duty Chevrolet Suburban for use in fleets for the division’s safety service.

GM Protection has been supplying the division with automobiles for a lot of years. The most recent armored Suburban is a next-generation design that was delivered in prototype kind to the division for testing functions in 2021.

Though it resembles a standard Suburban from the surface, the automobile has been developed from the bottom up for its armored automobile mission. One of many key variations is using a novel body-on-frame platform that helps the heavier weight of the automobile, in addition to gives the choice for battery- and even hydrogen-electric powertrains as a substitute for the usual fuel powertrains. The suspension can also be distinctive to the automobile.

One of many causes that GM Protection was picked for the contract is the corporate’s capacity so as to add the entire automobile’s distinctive options into the unique design and manufacturing course of, versus an aftermarket resolution the place a automobile must be torn down and rebuilt. In line with GM Protection, this allows it to ship improved automobile efficiency and sooner supply instances. The automobiles additionally include a full producer’s guarantee.

Given the benefits, it is doubtless GM Protection will win contracts for the automobile from different authorities departments. The corporate’s head, Steve duMont, mentioned the automobiles are additionally out there for allied protection and safety clients world wide.

An up to date model of the civilian Suburban can also be on its means. Revealed on Wednesday, the up to date Suburban is due as a 2025 mannequin and can deliver revised styling, new expertise within the cabin, and a extra highly effective diesel engine. An up to date model of the smaller Tahoe can even go on sale on the identical time.