Secret Service Turns to GM for Tough New Vehicles | Carscoops

      The Secret Service routinely collaborates with GM to develop new vehicles "taking into account the terrain and the threat environment."

      Future Secret Service vehicles may potentially draw inspiration from GM Defense's Infantry Squad Vehicle.

      These new vehicles are expected to be less conspicuous internationally compared to the currently used Chevy Suburbans.

      There is a chance that a new platform will be designed specifically to meet the Secret Service’s needs.

      The US Secret Service is partnering with General Motors Defense to create vehicles that offer enhanced off-road capabilities and are better suited to their surroundings than those presently in use. While many aspects of the Secret Service’s strategy remain confidential, there is a possibility that these vehicles could resemble the military models produced by GM Defense.

      Most vehicles within the agency's fleet are heavily modified, armored Chevrolet Suburbans that are black and resemble commercial models. However, while such large SUVs may be appropriate in the US, they can be overly noticeable in some other countries.

      According to Secret Service director Sean Curran, the organization regularly collaborates with GM Defense on new vehicles “considering the terrain, the threat environment, and our specific requirements.” He pointed out that a new vehicle could be designed to better blend into areas like Africa, in contrast to the more eye-catching current Suburbans.

      Curran did not divulge detailed information about the new initiative during his conversation with Car and Driver. Nonetheless, it is possible that the new vehicles might bear resemblances to GM Defense's Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV), which is based on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. There is also a chance it may stem from GM's Light Utility Vehicle (LUV) concept, which is derived from the Silverado HD and is currently manufactured for the Canadian Armed Forces.

      One vehicle from GM Defense that likely won't be considered is the GMC Hummer EV-based eMCV, revealed a few years ago. While an electric vehicle could be suitable for certain military operations, it is likely not the best choice for remote areas due to its limitations, particularly regarding range and the requirement for recharging rather than refueling.

      There is also a likelihood that the Secret Service and GM Defense are developing an entirely new platform from scratch; however, this option would be considerably more costly and take significantly longer to implement than utilizing an existing design.