THIS Mercedes-Maybach S650 worth Rs 12 crore helps PM Narendra Modi travel safely and comfortably: IN PICS

Prime Minister is among the highest office bearers in India and needs special protection, designed exclusively by the SPG. Apart from weapons, safe transportation plays a critical role in PM's security. Over the years, PM's elaborate security detail has seen vehicles like the BMW 7-Series, which was extensively used was the former PM of India, Manmohan Singh. 

However, with PM Modi taking the high chair in 2014, SPG upgraded the security even further, after assessing the threat perception. PM Modi's cavalcade was upgraded with armoured Toyota Fortuner, Range Rover Vogue among other SUVs. 

In 2021, however, SPG added the ultra-luxurious and safest production car in India - the Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard worth Rs 12 crore (including the security updates to the regular S650), which already is rated at VR10 protection level, highest in India. 

The VR10 is the highest protection offered in any civilian vehicle around the world and the car can withstand bullets, blast of 15kg TNT from a distance of two metres and even gas attack. 

It also gets Explosive Resistant Vehicle (ERV) 2010 rating that means the cars get special integrated steel between the outer skin and structure, polycarbonate coating on the inside, and the under body gets heavy armour to counter direct explosions. 

The wheels are also puncture proof, while the fuel tank is coated with a special material that seals the holes automatically after a hit. The Mercedes-Maybach 650 Guard is powered by a 6.0-litre V12 twin turbocharged engine that generates a maximum power of 523 bhp and peak torque of 830 Nm.

Interestingly, President Ram Nath Kovid rides the new Mercedes-Maybach S600 Pullman Guard, which offers VR9-level protection for its occupants.