“We’ve had another incredibly busy year here at SVI. We not only launched our groundbreaking new SVI LITE partial-armouring solution and commenced sales of our 12-seater MAX SWAT but also developed bespoke new B4 discreet and B6 discreet packages for several models,” said SVI Business Development Director, Nicol Louw.

So, which nameplates were the most popular for armouring at SVI in 2025? Well, it’s interesting to note all models in the top 5 employ a robust ladder-frame platform, a configuration well suited to carrying the added weight of armouring components (particularly when it comes to full B6 protection). Furthermore, while the podium places are occupied by bakkies, SUVs take the final two positions.

1. Toyota Hilux – 90 units armoured

Considering it remains South Africa’s best-selling vehicle, the Toyota Hilux predictably takes the top spot, with as many as 90 units having been fitted with SVI armour in 2025. Equipped with the company’s Stopgun V2.0 package, the locally built bakkie is the default choice in SA’s security industry.

Additionally, the Stopgun V2.0 kit for specific versions of the Hilux single cab is fully approved by the Japanese brand, thanks to SVI’s status as an authorised converter in Toyota’s commercial-vehicle partner programme. However, the double-cab version is also a popular option among civilians who require B4 (handgun protection, up to .44 Magnum) and B6 (protecting against assault rifles, including AK47, R1 and R5) discreet armour.

2. FORD RANGER – 29 units armoured

The local market’s second most popular bakkie also takes the runner-up position on this list. Over the course of 2025, the Bashewa-based company has armoured 29 examples of the Ford Ranger, all of which retained their vehicle warranty (and any selected service or maintenance plans) thanks to SVI’s approval under the Ford Pro Convertor programme (previously known as the Qualified Vehicle Modifiers initiative).

Fascinatingly, the Thailand-sourced Raptor was easily the most popular Ranger derivative, accounting for 21 of the 29 units armoured (with locally built Ranger variants making up the balance). As recently as September 2025, SVI announced a new B6 discreet armouring option for the V6-powered Raptor, launching it as SA’s first Ford-approved assault-rifle protection package for this high-performance derivative.

3. Volkswagen Amarok – 22 units armoured

Since several other bakkies outsell the second-generation Volkswagen Amarok on the local new-vehicle market, it may surprise some that the German firm’s contender makes it onto the podium here. However, the latest Amarok – just like the original version – has fast become a favourite among SVI customers, with as many as 22 units armoured in 2025.

Since the Amarok shares its platform with the Ranger (and is indeed built by Ford alongside this model at the Blue Oval brand’s Silverton facility in Gauteng), SVI’s engineers were able to apply their knowledge of Ford’s bakkie to develop the required armouring packages for the VW version.

4. Ford Everest – 11 units armoured

The most popular SUV for armouring at SVI in 2025 was the Ford Everest. In the end, 11 units of this Thai-built model moved through the company’s armouring facility during the year, with both B4 discreet and B6 discreet packages applied.

As with the closely related Ranger bakkie, SVI’s approval under the Ford Pro Convertor programme means an Everest converted by the armouring company (including with SVI LITE partial armour) retains its full warranty as well as any selected service or maintenance plans.

5. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado – 7 units armoured

The model that closes out the top 5 is the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. Like the previous-generation Prado, this latest J250-series model is an ideal candidate for both B4 discreet and B6 discreet armour, with 7 units having been converted by SVI in 2025.

SVI launched bespoke B4 and B6 protection packages for the new Prado – a model that remains in short supply on the local new-vehicle market, with customers continuing to face lengthy waiting lists – in the first quarter of the year. Should supply to South Africa improve, there’s every chance this model will climb the list in 2026.

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Comprising three videos, the new “Toughness” series shows a Toyota Hilux double-cab bakkie fitted with the popular SVI Stopgun V2.0 kit being subjected to a string of rigorous assessments, including a full ballistic onslaught, a riot-style attack and a punishing drop test.

“Over eight generations and more than half a century, the Toyota Hilux has built up a legendary reputation as one of the toughest bakkies out there. Fitting our B6 Stopgun V2.0 armouring kit, however, pushes its toughness into a whole new realm, which is clearly demonstrated in this series of videos,” said SVI Business Development Director, Nicol Louw.

TEST 1: EXTREME BALLISTIC ATTACK

The first test facing the SVI Hilux B6 Stopgun V2.0 test mule? Nothing short of a full ballistic onslaught via 9 mm, DM5 and AK47. In unison, SVI’s weapons handlers fired multiple rounds into the converted bakkie’s body and glass. Once the dust had settled, a thorough examination of the vehicle confirmed that zero penetration had occurred.

“There’s a reason our Stopgun V2.0 kit is so popular with South Africa’s security industry, where it saves lives on virtually a weekly basis. In the field, this solution has proven its worth time and time again, seeing it become the default choice among local security companies,” said Louw.

Watch Part 1 HERE!

TEST 2: PUNISHING RIOT-STYLE ATTACK

Almost immediately after withstanding a ballistic assault, the SVI Hilux B6 Stopgun V2.0 was confronted with a riot-style attack. Armed with a wide range of impact weapons typically encountered during violent civil disorder, the SVI team went to work on the Hilux.

Despite its battle scars from the ballistic test, the converted bakkie resolutely withstood impacts from weapons that included rocks, a hammer, a crowbar and even a pick-axe. Despite their best efforts, the team simply could not gain entry to the cabin.

Watch Part 2 HERE!

TEST 3: DRAMATIC INVERTED DROP

What else could the SVI Hilux B6 Stopgun V2.0 possibly endure? Well, what about being dropped onto its roof? After being inverted, hooked it up to a crane and raised two metres clear off the ground, the B6-armoured bakkie faced its final daunting challenge: surviving a drop onto a solid concrete surface.

And that’s exactly what it did. In a clear illustration of the B6 Stopgun V2.0 package’s built-in roll-over protection – courtesy of the armoured steel structure that effectively surrounds the cabin – the bakkie’s roof suffered very little deformation, despite bearing the full weight of the vehicle in the fall. This came as no surprise to the team considering the SVI Hilux B6 Stopgun V2.0 long ago passed an independent rollover test.

Watch Part 3 HERE!

THE TOUGHEST HILUX YET?

“The SVI B6 Stopgun V2.0 Hilux handled absolutely everything we could throw at it. In the end, it passed all three of our gruelling tests with flying colours. Is this the toughest version of the already resilient Hilux? We certainly think so.

“So, if your security company is running unarmoured bakkies in its crime-fighting fleet, we believe you’re taking an unnecessary risk. The solution is the SVI Stopgun V2.0 kit – cost effective, field proven and now tested to the absolute max,” concluded Louw.

SVI HILUX B6 STOPGUN V2.0

SVI’s B6 Stopgun V2.0 package for the Toyota Hilux serves as the preferred choice in South Africa’s broader security industry. It provides local security forces with a cost-effective B6 armouring solution – providing protection against assault rifles (including AK47, R1 and R5) – to combat general crime, escort valuables in transit or use for mining patrols.

The Stopgun V2.0 kit features unobtrusive integrated door armour and flat 38 mm armoured glass bolted into each window frame (the latter allows for fuss-free replacement should damage be sustained during an attack). In addition, the roof, front fenders, all pillars and part of the firewall gain B6 bullet-resistant protection courtesy of custom-fabricated armoured steel plates, as do critical under-bonnet components such as the battery and ABS unit.

Thanks to SVI’s status as an authorised converter in Toyota’s commercial-vehicle partner programme, the Stopgun V2.0 armouring package for specific versions of the Hilux Single Cab is fully approved by the Japanese automaker and is thus available to order directly from any of Toyota’s 200-plus dealerships countrywide.

COST AND BUILD TIME

The B6 Stopgun V2.0 armouring solution for the Toyota Hilux is available for all three body styles, with installation taking just three weeks. The prices below include a front suspension upgrade, gunports, window tinting and interior carpeting of the cab armour. Options include a more discreet curved windscreen, a bullbar-and-ballistic-grille combo and “Flats Over” heavy-duty runflat rings.

• Hilux Single Cab Stopgun V2.0 cabin armour – R303,729*
• Hilux Xtra Cab Stopgun V2.0 cabin armour – R351,346*
• Hilux Double Cab Stopgun V2.0 cabin armour – R434,322*

*figures exclude VAT and the purchase price of the base vehicle

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Arriving as South Africa’s first Ford-approved assault-rifle protection package for the high-performance Ranger Raptor, SVI’s B6 armouring solution is the result of a rigorous development process that included measures to increase this halo derivative’s gross vehicle mass (GVM), SVI said.

“Since the Raptor’s special FOX suspension system results in a lower payload compared to other Ranger derivatives, this model was initially deemed unsuitable to handle the extra mass that comes with full assault-rifle protection. The technical solution, of course, is to increase the Raptor’s GVM, a process we’ve now successfully completed with the full blessing of Ford,” explained SVI Business Development Director, Nicol Louw.

GVM UPGRADE OPENS DOOR TO B6 ARMOUR

As standard, the Ranger Raptor’s GVM is 3 130 kg, while its official payload is listed as 670 kg. However, in consultation with both Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa and FOX’s suspension experts, SVI set about safely increasing these figures, ultimately paving the way for B6 armour.

In the end, the Ford-ratified solution – backed by official brake testing – sees the Raptor’s all-important, derivative-defining 2.5-inch FOX live-valve internal bypass shock absorbers retained, though these items now operate in conjunction with suitably uprated springs.

Thanks largely to the latter, the Raptor’s GVM rises to 3 499 kg (still allowing drivers to operate the converted vehicle on standard “Code B” driver’s licence in South Africa), which in turn increases the payload to 1 039 kg. And that, of course, opens the door to full B6 armour.

SVI’s B6 DISCREET PACKAGE FOR RAPTOR

The concealed B6 package for the Ranger Raptor represents the highest grade of civilian armour allowed in South Africa without a special permit. This 360-degree solution affords occupants of the V6-powered bakkie comprehensive protection against assault rifles, including AK47, R1 and R5.

Materials used include 38 mm armoured glass curved to OEM specification, along with precisely cut high-grade armoured steel plates. Full firewall and footwell protection are included, while careful overlapping of materials serves to minimise ballistic gaps.

The Raptor’s entire passenger cell thus boasts coverage, including all pillars, all doors and all windows, while critical under-bonnet components (such as the battery and ABS unit) are also protected. The added mass of the B6 armouring components is no match for this flagship Ranger derivative’s twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, which churns out a whopping 292 kW and 583 Nm.

FULLY BACKED UNDER FPC PROGRAMME

This project was made possible by the fact SVI is approved under the Ford Pro Convertor (FPC) programme, previously known as the Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) initiative. SVI’s long-standing relationship with Ford dates back to an armouring collaboration that centred on the previous-generation Ranger.

Today, the Bashewa-based armouring company offers not only various levels of Ford-endorsed bullet-resistant protection for the Ranger – including a semi-discreet B6 Stopgun V3.0 kit aimed at the security industry – but also several packages for the Everest SUV.

As is the case with these products, SVI’s FPC status means the B6-converted Ranger Raptor’s warranty and any selected service or maintenance plans remain intact. Moreover, the entire package – including the purchase price of the base vehicle and the cost of the armour – can be financed via Ford Credit through any Blue Oval dealership in South Africa.

COST AND BUILD TIME

The 360-degree B6 discreet armouring solution for the Ford Ranger Raptor is priced from R891,735 (excluding VAT). Of course, SVI still offers the previously available B4 discreet package, which protects against handguns (up to .44 Magnum) and is priced from R588,730 (excluding VAT), as well as the innovative new “SVI LITE” B2 partial armouring solution (R64,950 ex VAT per closure).

The project build time for both the B4 discreet kit and the new B6 discreet package is set at approximately three months, with the list of options including items such as roof armour, a PA system and imported heavy-duty runflat rings for the tyres. Meanwhile, installation of the “SVI LITE” partial armouring solution takes just two weeks.

“SVI LITE” B2 partial armour – R64,950 (ex VAT) per closure
360-degree B4 discreet armour – R588,730 (ex VAT)
360-degree B6 discreet armour – R891,735 (ex VAT)
*figures exclude VAT and the purchase price of the base vehicle

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At its stand in Hall 3 at Gallagher Estate, SVI is showcasing multiple vehicles for the commercial and private security markets as well as police and law enforcement. SVI Business Development Director Nicol Louw explained to ProtectionWeb that the lightest, most cost effective solution it has is its B2 LITE protection solution for the driver and passenger doors of vehicles. Focusing mostly on civilian use, this partial armouring provides protection against small-calibre handguns (9 mm) in the area most likely to be targeted in an attack.

The kit consists of 13 mm B2 rated ballistic glass, with the windows still fully functional, as well as a Kevlar door sheet protecting more than 80% of the door area, for a total weight of 15 kg per door. Louw likens this to a bullet-resistant vest for vehicles, protecting vital areas. The B2 LITE armour costs around R65 000 per door for a Ford Ranger, and R55 000 for a Toyota Corolla Cross.

On the bigger end of the scale, SVI brought its MAX SWAT armoured vehicle, able to carry 12 crew and provide protection against assault rifles and other threats. It was designed for various sectors, from police and correctional services to private security and the military.

The 12-seater MAX SWAT can carry a payload of more than 2 tonnes. It can be fitted with an optional auxiliary power unit (APU) capable of independently running the air-conditioning system as well as any specialised systems (such as ground radars and long-range cameras) that the client may wish to include. These can be accommodated in two cargo bay areas at the rear corners of the vehicle. At Securex 2025, the vehicle is fitted with a mast-mounted Hensoldt South Africa Bushbaby 100 electro-optical surveillance system.

The SVI MAX SWAT has a build time of three months and is priced from R4.4 million, and is the most expensive vehicle on the company’s stand. On the smaller end of the scale, SVI displayed an armoured Jeep Grand Cherokee, an armoured Toyota Hilux fitted with a ‘drone in a box’ (ideal for mining security and other tasks) as well as its lightweight MAX 3 armoured personnel carrier, based on Toyota’s proven Land Cruiser 79 series chassis.

At last year’s Securex SVI unveiled its new Golf 8 GTI response vehicle with bullet resistance against AK-47 calibre rifles. The discreetly armoured hatchback offers protection against handguns and rifles up to 7.62×39 mm, including the pervasive AK-47.

SVI specialises in the armouring of civilian vehicles, luxury vehicles, security vehicles, and the manufacture of MAX-series armoured personnel carriers (APCs), armoured truck cabs, and armoured guard houses, amongst others. Since establishment in 2004, SVI has manufactured or converted approximately 3 000 vehicles, with customers in Africa, Europe and the Middle East.

Although SVI has a list of preferred vehicles it armours for the sake of ease of modification, the company can armour just about any vehicle, from Volvo to Maserati. Its typical private customers fit armour to BMW sedans and SUVs and Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser/Prado models. Apart from manufacturing, SVI has an armoured fleet rental division as well as a test track and driver training academy.

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The company’s more than 25 bullet-resistant vehicles are each equipped with a protection package from sister company SVI Engineering. Available protection ratings include B4 discreet (handguns), B4+ discreet (handguns and AK-47) and B6 (assault rifles, including AK-47, R1 and R5), with the latter level offered in both semi-discreet (aimed specifically at the security industry) and fully concealed forms. Additionally, SVI Secure offers armoured guardhouse units for rent.

SVI said the rental fleet includes a broad selection of discreetly armoured VIP vehicles, suited to private individuals, such as B6-armoured versions of proven ladder-frame SUVs such as Toyota’s Fortuner, Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser 200, along with a B4-armoured Mercedes-Benz V-Class.

There’s also a Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI, which features SVI’s bespoke AK-47-resistant B4+ package, as launched earlier in 2024. This armoured hot hatch is furthermore deployable as a rapid-response vehicle. Meanwhile, the trusty Toyota Hilux is a staple in the rental fleet, particularly when it comes to meeting the needs of security firms.

Options here include both single- and double-cab versions of the Hilux bakkie, most of which are fitted with SVI’s field-proven B6 Stopgun V2.0 package. A single-cab Hilux additionally equipped with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) canopy is also available, with this fully homologated solution providing B4+ protection for an extra five crew members.

The SVI MAX 3 Troopy – a multi-role 8-seater armoured personnel carrier (APC) based on Toyota’s Land Cruiser 79 chassis and offering B6 protection thanks to its bespoke hull – is likewise available to security firms for hire, as is a UD Kuzer RKE 150 truck that incorporates SVI’s factory-backed full armoured cab replacement.

“Thanks to our extensive fleet of armoured vehicles, we cover a broad range of client requirements, from the safeguarding of valuables-in-transit to riot control and, of course, VIP transport. On the latter point, in partnership with our trusted associates in the close-protection field, we’re also able to offer our executive clients highly experienced security details,” said Cobus de Kock, SVI Secure Director.

Officially established in 2019, SVI Secure has regional hubs in Gauteng and the Western Cape as well as KwaZulu-Natal, with a newly opened office in uMhlanga. The company’s armoured vehicles are available to rent right across South Africa and even in select neighbouring countries. Both short- and long-term rental options are available, the company said.

In order to ensure SVI Secure’s armoured vehicles are not used for nefarious activities, all new clients go through a standard vetting process and are thus required to meet certain criteria before any rental agreement can take effect, the company added.

Though exact rental costs depend on the model derivative (and the duration of the rental period), vehicles can generally be rented from R5 000 to R20 000 per day.

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Built for extreme terrains and heavy loads, the new vehicles are designed for tasks such as camping, emergency services or off-road load carrying. “The aim of these products is to supply chassis to customers who want a bespoke product or a blank canvas,” the company said.

Ulterio Motiv said the 6×6 version is the “ultimate incarnation of the Toyota Land Cruiser”, giving improved off-road capability and increased GVM (gross vehicle mass), which rises to 6 050 kg – a significant 2 850 kg up on that of the standard vehicle.

On the 6×6, the additional axle as well as the existing rear axle are upgraded, and three differential locks ensure off-road mobility. The rear axles are track-corrected, meaning they are slightly wider allowing the tyres to run in line with those fitted to the front axle. Whereas other existing 6×6 systems employs a complex array of drive shafts and gearboxes, the Ulterio Motiv design features a straight-through differential drive from the second to the third axle in combination with a slipper-type clutch to only activate the full 6×6 drive when needed.

For the 6×4 version, the rear axle is not powered by the engine, but increases GVM to 5 500 kg.

Should a customer own a second-hand Land Cruiser 79 from the past couple of years, Ulterio Motiv is able to convert them into a 6×4 (or 6×6) version.

“What really puts Ulterio Motiv on the map is the cost-effective 6×4 option that offers customers the same look and comparable carrying capacity but for less than half the price,” said Ulterio Motiv’s public relations manager, Wilhelm Lutjeharms. A 6×4 conversion costs R389 000 while a 6×6 version costs R895 000 and takes three months to complete.

SVI is no stranger to Land Cruiser 79-based vehicles, having armoured Land Cruisers for commercial customers and used the Land Cruiser as the basis for its lightweight, low-cost MAX 3 series of armoured personnel carriers. These are available in 4×4, 6×4 and 6×6 versions.

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The MAX SWAT is a sibling to the company’s popular MAX 3 range of armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and the MAX 9 military vehicle.

“From the outset of our rigorous design and engineering process, we knew a high level of adaptability was key for the SVI MAX SWAT – and that’s exactly what we’ve achieved. This new APC’s versatility means it’s well suited to various sectors, from police and correctional services to private security and indeed military. Therefore, AAD 2024 was the perfect place for us to reveal it,” said Jaco de Kock, CEO of SVI.

The new SVI MAX SWAT has been designed for a wide range of roles, including border patrol, public-order maintenance, command & control, and tactical surveillance, as well as special weapons & tactics (SWAT) and mobile assault & reconnaissance system (MARS) operations.

Providing a minimum protection level of EN1063 BR6 (assault rifles, including AK47, R1 and R5), the MAX SWAT employs a custom-fabricated armoured monocoque hull (bolted to a ladder-frame chassis) and armoured glass windows, with the latter strategically positioned to maximise situational awareness. The substantial side doors, meanwhile, allow for rapid ingress and egress, providing a distinct tactical advantage during high-risk operations, SVI said.

The 12-seater MAX SWAT can carry a payload of more than 2 tonnes. It can be fitted with an optional auxiliary power unit (APU) capable of independently running the air-conditioning system as well as any specialised systems (such as ground radars and long-range cameras) that the client may wish to include. These can be accommodated in two cargo bay areas at the rear corners of the vehicle. At AAD 2024, one bay was fitted with a Honda generator, and another a Hensoldt South Africa Bushbaby 100 optronic mast.

“Since reliability and ease of maintenance are particularly crucial factors for vehicles tasked with transporting personnel and equipment in high-risk areas, SVI opted to use a well-proven powertrain from Japanese automotive giant Isuzu. As such, the MAX SWAT employs the 7.8-litre, inline-six turbodiesel engine (6HK1-TCN) familiar from Isuzu’s range of medium-duty trucks,” the company said.

Generating peak outputs of 176 kW and 706 Nm, this six-cylinder motor drives all four wheels as standard. SVI upgraded the drivetrain to include a six-speed Allison 2500 Series automatic transmission in place of the otherwise-standard manual gearbox.

“The use of this field-proven Isuzu 4×4 powertrain, along with tough Isuzu axles and suspension components, plus various commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, serves to not only ensure reliability and simplify maintenance but also to boost operational efficiency and thus reduce total lifecycle costs. In fact, routine servicing can be performed at any Isuzu dealership across South Africa or in neighbouring African countries,” SVI said.

The SVI MAX SWAT has a build time of three months and is priced from R4.4 million. It comes standard with SVI’s innovative anti-riot scraper – which looks like a regular bumper until it is deployed – as well as anti-riot screen guards. In addition to the APU, available options include heavy-duty runflat rings, shot-detection and -location systems, medical equipment, and mast-mounted camera.

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Built for extreme terrains and heavy loads, the new vehicles are designed for tasks such as camping, emergency services or off-road load carrying. “The aim of these products is to supply chassis to customers who want a bespoke product or a blank canvas,” the company said.

Ulterio Motiv said the 6×6 version is the “ultimate incarnation of the Toyota Land Cruiser”, giving improved off-road capability and increased GVM (gross vehicle mass), which rises to 6 050 kg – a significant 2 850 kg up on that of the standard vehicle.

On the 6×6, the additional axle as well as the existing rear axle are upgraded, and three differential locks ensure off-road mobility. The rear axles are track-corrected, meaning they are slightly wider allowing the tyres to run in line with those fitted to the front axle. Whereas other existing 6×6 systems employs a complex array of drive shafts and gearboxes, the Ulterio Motiv design features a straight-through differential drive from the second to the third axle in combination with a slipper-type clutch to only activate the full 6×6 drive when needed.

For the 6×4 version, the rear axle is not powered by the engine, but increases GVM to 5 500 kg.

Should a customer own a second-hand Land Cruiser 79 from the past couple of years, Ulterio Motiv is able to convert them into a 6×4 (or 6×6) version.

“What really puts Ulterio Motiv on the map is the cost-effective 6×4 option that offers customers the same look and comparable carrying capacity but for less than half the price,” said Ulterio Motiv’s public relations manager, Wilhelm Lutjeharms. A 6×4 conversion costs R389 000 while a 6×6 version costs R895 000 and takes three months to complete.

SVI is no stranger to Land Cruiser 79-based vehicles, having armoured Land Cruisers for commercial customers and used the Land Cruiser as the basis for its lightweight, low-cost MAX 3 series of armoured personnel carriers. These are available in 4×4, 6×4 and 6×6 versions.

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“As South Africa’s most powerful bakkie, the Ranger Raptor is an unparalleled base for a rapid-response vehicle with high-speed off-road capabilities. Fitted with our Ford-backed B4 armouring package, this solution also offers proven ballistic protection, making it the ideal choice for South Africa’s private security firms,” said SVI Business Development Director, Nicol Louw.

SVI’s Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) status with Ford means this B4 armouring package for the Raptor can be ordered directly from any Blue Oval dealership in South Africa, with the bakkie’s standard warranty and any selected service or maintenance plan remaining intact. In addition, the entire package, including the purchase price of the Raptor and the cost of the armour, can be financed via Ford Credit.

B4 DISCREET PACKAGE FOR RANGER RAPTOR

Thanks to SVI’s in-depth knowledge of the Ranger as part of its long-standing partnership with Ford, this bespoke B4 discreet armouring solution sets a new standard in the industry, SVI said. Providing comprehensive 360-degree protection against handguns (up to .44 Magnum) for the entire passenger cell, the bullet-resistant package includes 21 mm armoured glass curved to original-equipment specification as well as precisely cut-and-bonded Kevlar sheets for the body. In addition, armoured-steel plates are used in various smaller, otherwise typically more vulnerable areas, such as the pillars.

Meanwhile, critical powertrain elements are protected by armour concealed in the front fenders, while certain under-bonnet components also receive bullet-resistant protection. Moreover, the Ranger Raptor’s various driver-assistance safety systems – including those that rely on sensors mounted behind the windscreen – remain completely operational.

Considering the Raptor’s twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine generates 292 kW and 583 Nm, SVI’s lightweight armouring solution has a virtually imperceptible impact on acceleration and dynamic performance. Furthermore, thanks to the minimal overall mass added, the FOX suspension system – which includes live valve internal bypass shock absorbers with position-sensitive damping – is retained, meaning this rapid-response bakkie remains eminently capable, both off-road and on.

“In short, our B4-armoured Raptor is the ultimate go-anywhere rapid-response vehicle, combining high-speed off-road capabilities with confidence-inspiring road manners and, of course, our meticulously engineered bullet-resistant package. This, then, is surely both the fastest and the safest rapid-response bakkie out there,” concluded Louw.

The new Ranger Raptor rapid-response bakkie will be displayed at SVI’s stand during the upcoming Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 expo, which is scheduled to take place at Air Force Base Waterkloof from 18 to 22 September 2024. Find SVI at Stand 4OS2 in Outdoor Hangar 4.

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SVI has received Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) status with Ford, allowing armouring packages for the Everest to be ordered directly from any Blue Oval dealership in South Africa. With the standard manufacturer warranty, any selected service or maintenance plan would remain intact. In addition, the entire package, including the purchase price of the base vehicle and the cost of the armour selected, can be financed via Ford Credit.

“Considering the ongoing success of our partnership with Ford to provide factory-backed armour across the Ranger line-up – first with the previous-generation bakkie and now with the current model – it made perfect sense to extend our offering to the versatile and highly capable Everest range,” said Nicol Louw, SVI Business Development Director.

SVI’s engineering team drew on both its extensive industry experience and its intricate knowledge of the closely related Ranger, to formulate bespoke B4 and B6 discreet armouring solutions for the Everest. The 360-degree B4 package offers protection against handguns (up to .44 Magnum) and therefore represents the ideal anti-hijack solution, the company said.

The B4 concealed package provides comprehensive protection for the entire passenger cell, including the tailgate. The package combines 21mm armoured glass (curved to original-equipment specification) with precision cut-and-bonded Kevlar sheets for the body, along with armoured steel plates in smaller, more vulnerable areas.

This lightweight solution has a negligible impact on vehicle acceleration, fuel consumption and dynamic performance. Due to the minimal overall mass added by SVI’s level B4 package, the Everest does not require any suspension upgrade, while the standard door hinges are likewise retained.

The B6 discreet package offers 360-degree protection against assault rifle calibres, including 7.62 x 39mm, 5.56 x 45mm and 7.62 x 51mm, making it ideal for extra protection, without a special permit. This tried-and-tested package utilises custom-fabricated armoured steel plates, composite materials and high-grade 38mm ballistic glass.

To reduce both cost and overall mass, the B6 armouring package incorporates an armoured rear bulkhead (complete with an escape hatch), neatly integrated behind the second row of seats. A suspension upgrade is included as standard. This aids the SUV in managing the additional mass, along with the upgraded door hinges.

With both packages, the Everest’s various driver-assistance safety systems, such as those which rely on sensors mounted behind the windscreen, remain fully operational.

When ordered via a Ford dealer, the 360-degree B4 armouring solution for the Ford Everest is priced from R725 684 (excluding VAT), while the B6 package starts at R928 534 (excluding VAT). The list of options includes roof armour, floor armour, a PA system and heavy-duty run-flat rings for the tyres. The project build time is set at approximately three months in each case.

SVI is an original equipment manufacturer specialising in armoured vehicles since 2004. The company is a market leader in Africa, serving the private, corporate, security, mining and governmental segments. SVI holds a Level 2 B-BBEE certification, and its quality management system is certified to ISO 9001:2015 by TÜV Rheinland.

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