Image: SVI Engineering
In a move that caters to South Africa’s unique security needs, SVI Engineering, a renowned manufacturer of armoured products, has introduced a rapid-response version of the powerful Ford Ranger Raptor. This new model, equipped with Ford-recognised B4 discreet armour, is designed specifically for private security companies that require high-speed off-road capabilities combined with ballistic protection.
The Ford Ranger Raptor is widely regarded as South Africa’s most powerful bakkie, making it an ideal base for SVI’s latest armouring solution. According to SVI’s Business Development Director, Nicol Louw, this vehicle offers a unique blend of high performance and proven protection, making it the perfect option for the country’s security sector.
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He says:
“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.”
Ford-Backed Armouring Solution
SVI Engineering holds the Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) status with Ford, which means the B4 armouring package can be ordered directly through Ford dealerships across South Africa. Customers benefit from the convenience of purchasing the armoured Ranger Raptor with its standard warranty intact, ensuring peace of mind when it comes to maintenance and service plans. Additionally, the entire package, including both the vehicle and the armouring, can be financed through Ford Credit.
Comprehensive Protection with Minimal Impact on Performance
SVI’s B4 discreet armour provides 360-degree protection against handgun fire, including rounds from weapons as powerful as a .44 Magnum. The armouring package includes 21 mm armoured glass shaped to fit seamlessly into the vehicle’s original specifications and Kevlar sheets precisely bonded to the body. Key areas, such as the pillars and other smaller vulnerable points, are further reinforced with armoured-steel plates.
In addition to passenger protection, SVI has designed the armour to safeguard critical components under the bonnet and within the front fenders. Importantly, the Raptor’s advanced driver-assistance safety systems, which rely on sensors mounted behind the windscreen, remain fully functional.
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Despite the added protection, SVI’s lightweight armouring solution ensures that the Ranger Raptor’s high-performance credentials remain virtually unaffected. The vehicle is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine delivering an impressive 292 kW and 583 Nm of torque. Thanks to the cutting-edge FOX suspension system with live valve internal bypass shock absorbers, the bakkie retains its dynamic off-road capabilities.
Louw adds:
“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.”
Pricing and Build Time
For those interested in acquiring this high-performance, armoured bakkie, the B4 discreet armour package for the Ford Ranger Raptor is priced from R545 121 (excluding VAT), not including the cost of the base vehicle. Various optional extras are available, such as roof armour, a PA system, heavy-duty run-flat tyres, and security-specific features like a siren and flashing lights.
The build time for the B4-armoured Ranger Raptor is approximately three months, ensuring that South Africa’s security firms can have a fully customised rapid-response vehicle ready to tackle the challenges of protecting their clients in a relatively short time frame.
The Ford Ranger Raptor’s base price comes in at R1 226 700.
