SVI armours new Toyota Hilux against AK-47, R1 and R5 fire

Share current article via EmailShare current article via FacebookShare current article via TwitterShare current article via LinkedInMotoring StaffEnter fullscreen mode displaying this image.ExpandThe B6 package provides 360º protection and is the highest level of civilian vehicle armour that can be fitted without requiring a special permit. Picture: SVI South African specialist SVI Engineering has developed a discreet B6 armouring package for the latest-generation Toyota Hilux, providing protection against common assault rifles including the AK-47, R1 and R5.

The ninth-generation Hilux is manufactured at Toyota’s Prospecton plant in KwaZulu-Natal and arrived in the local market earlier this year. SVI acquired a flagship Hilux 2.8GD-6 Legend 4×4 double cab to develop the B6 package.

The company said its B6 package provides 360º protection and is the highest level of civilian vehicle armour that can be fitted without requiring a special permit.

The conversion uses custom-fabricated ballistic steel plates, composite materials and 38mm-thick ballistic glass. The glass is curved to match the original equipment manufacturer’s specifications, helping the armoured Hilux retain its standard appearance.

The driver’s window can still be lowered by about 150mm. Picture: SVI The system also uses ballistic overlaps around the door apertures and side windows, and around the windscreen. These are designed to eliminate potential gaps in protection between the armoured sections.

The ballistic steel panels are precision-cut and bonded to the inside of the Hilux’s existing body panels, leaving the exterior largely unchanged.

The driver’s window can still be lowered by about 150mm. SVI replaces the original window mechanism with heavy-duty actuators designed to cope with the additional weight of the armoured glass.

The additional weight also requires hardware changes, with the B6 conversion including an upgraded suspension and stronger door hinges.

SVI said the Hilux’s driver-assistance systems remain fully operational after the conversion, including those that use sensors located behind the windscreen. Critical powertrain components are also protected as part of the armouring package.

The Hilux’s driver-assistance systems remain fully operational after the conversion, including those that use sensors located behind the windscreen. Picture: SVI The B6 package is priced at R945,239 excluding VAT and includes a full-day driver training course. Optional equipment includes additional roof and floor armour, and imported heavy-duty run-flat rings that allow the vehicle to continue moving for a limited distance after a tyre is damaged.

SVI also offers less extensive protection for the latest Hilux double cab.

The B4 discreet package is designed to protect occupants against handgun fire, including rounds up to .44 Magnum, and costs R624,054 excluding VAT. The B2 LITE package provides partial protection for selected body closures and is rated to stop 9mm, 124-grain handgun rounds. It costs R74,950 excluding VAT per closure.

SVI estimated a fitment time of about three months for the B4 and B6 discreet packages, while the B2 LITE conversion takes about two weeks.

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