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[Enrico Palazzo]

Page last updated at 11:45 GMT, Saturday, 12 July 2008 12:45 UK
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Brazil sees rise in bulletproof cars

By Gary Duffy
BBC News, Sao Paulo


Aluizio Coelho recalls in vivid detail the incident which persuaded him to buy a bulletproof car.

He was driving with his wife into the centre of Sao Paulo when a motorbike pulled up alongside his vehicle.


Brazil has an estimated 50,000 bulletproof vehicles on its roads
"Two guys were on the motorbike, and the guy behind had a gun. He asked for everything we had, and of course we said to him we will give you everything.

"But the problem was that the guy had such a nervous attitude, and it looked like he was using drugs. The risk of the situation was not only if we wanted to give away whatever we had, but if the guy was sure in his mind that he didn't need to shoot us.

"That was really what brought me to have a bulletproof car."

Aluizio, a former Formula 1 driver who now drives stock cars, bought his bulletproof vehicle second hand, and says it has brought peace of mind for him and his family.

"You have of course to keep in mind not to go where you shouldn't be going, but in a normal situation you are always feeling safer. It brings you comfort."

SAFEDRIVINGISGREAT

[cdninkorea]

This makes me wonder: what is involved in making a car bulletproof? Lots of kevlar lining the doors? Thicker windows? What about the tires? How does the heavier glass effect gas consumption, handling and performance? Can any bullet penetrate the car, or is it like a tank? Lastly, how much does it all cost?

[nolegirl]

Whenever we sent offshore guys down to Brazil we had to give them enough cash to bribe customs to get there tools through. Customs agents are some of the most affluent individuals in Brazil!!!

We put it down as "operating expenses".

As far as bullet proof cars, thats got be pricey. I always thought that bumper sticker "keep honking, I'm reloading" was so funny!

[merkurix]

I recall an idea South Africa tried to remedy a similar problem years ago. I wonder if it went through?

Flame-thrower carjacking deterrent

[Tiger Beer]

I'm equally curious about the construction of them.

The other day I was watching a show that dispelled the myth of the movies where the police officer stands behind a car door for protection. Apparently, car doors are VERY EASY to shoot through.

[holden_caulfield]

for those wondering about the construction of bulletproof cars.
go to youtube and search MANDA BALA
it's a documentary about the bulletproof car industry and this crooked politician and a frog farm.
you'd be surprised how all 3 are related.
but if you're getting your car bulletproofed you're not worrying about gas mileage;)

HC