Past presidents of Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria, have typically preferred the Mercedes-Benz W222 S-Class as their vehicle of choice, owing to its impressive features, which include a seamless blend of state-of-the-art technology, comfort, and robust security measures.
However, this tradition changed when President Bola Tinubu, elected in 2023, opted for a different approach – using the 2023/2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV as his preferred official car. The choice of the Cadillac and the subsequent unveiling at his inauguration in 2023 generated tonnes of reactions on social media because it goes against a long-standing tradition that has characterized the fourth republic.
Tinubu’s choice to opt for the Cadillac Escalade ESV makes it the official vehicle for the President of Nigeria. The sleek, ultra-modern bulletproof SUV has a large size and powerful design which makes it ideal for protecting the President from any danger.
With a robust 6.2-liter V8 engine producing around 420 horsepower, the Escalade offers both strength and luxury. It comes with premium leather seating, an advanced infotainment system, and a range of high-tech safety features.
The ESV version extends longer than the regular model, giving extra space for custom safety upgrades. While the base price for an Escalade ESV starts at about $100,000, these custom modifications done by top security companies like Armormax and the American Armoring Group can push the price into the $300,000 range or even higher.
Key Features
The vehicle comes with military-grade armor, making it one of the safest vehicles on the road. The windows feature ballistic-grade glass, specifically designed to withstand bullets from high-caliber firearms. Not just the windshield, but the side and rear mirrors are also reinforced, keeping any threats at bay.
The undercarriage is engineered to resist roadside bombs and explosions, ensuring the president’s safety from blasts or any unpredictable attacks. Even if the vehicle sustains damage, the flat tires allow it to keep moving under any circumstances. This vehicle isn’t just built for protection—it is equipped with cutting-edge technology that ensures the president remains ahead of potential threats.
With a 360-degree camera and thermal imaging, the Escalade features advanced surveillance systems, allowing for a real-time, comprehensive view of the surroundings. It even includes thermal cameras and radar to detect any dangers in the area.
The Escalade is equipped with secure encrypted communication systems, ensuring no one can eavesdrop or intercept critical conversations.
Despite all the armor and technology, the Cadillac Escalade doesn’t compromise on luxury. It also features a massive LED touchscreen for infotainment and climate control, which is fully customizable and voice-activated. The vehicle is designed to reduce external noise, providing a serene and comfortable ride even in the most challenging situations.
The Escalade is equipped with advanced driver-assist systems to ensure the vehicle is not only protected but also driven with utmost care. Its adaptive cruise control keeps pace with traffic while the vehicle adjusts its speed automatically. Lane-keeping assist and collision alert systems help maintain safety with built-in sensors that prevent accidents and ensure the vehicle stays within its lane. The Escalade is also equipped with emergency brakes that detect potential collisions and halt the vehicle when necessary. Simply put, it is a symbol of strength, protection, and sophistication.
The move to change his official vehicle led to heated discussions among Nigerians. It came amid rising tension following the removal of the fuel subsidy that necessitated economic challenges nationwide. While criticism heightened, some others supported the government, protesting that his security is important.
Source: www.letsridendrive.com
