VinFast’s Armored Limousine Withstands 440 Bullets in Rigorous Security Test in Vietnam

VinFast’s Armored Limousine Withstands 440 Bullets in Rigorous Security Test in Vietnam

Vietnamese automaker VinFast unveils the Lac Hong 900 LX, an electric armored limousine for political VIPs, after it passes extreme ballistic and explosive testing in Germany.

On August 28, 2025, VinFast, Vietnam’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, showcased its new armored electric limousine, the Lac Hong 900 LX, at the Vietnam Exposition Center in Hanoi. The vehicle, designed to transport key political leaders and international dignitaries, successfully withstood a barrage of 440 bullets and 11 grenades during security tests conducted at Germany’s renowned Beschussamt Ulm testing center. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Vietnam’s automotive industry and underscores VinFast’s growing ambitions on the global stage.

The Lac Hong 900 LX, now on display as part of the “80 Years of Independence – Freedom – Happiness” exhibition running from August 28 to September 5, represents VinFast’s entry into the elite world of armored vehicles for heads of state and VIPs. The company has already delivered the first batch of these limousines to Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for use during National Day celebrations and visits by international leaders.

How VinFast’s Armored Limousine Was Tested for Security

VinFast’s armored limousine underwent some of the most rigorous security tests in the industry. At the Beschussamt Ulm facility in Germany, the Lac Hong 900 LX was subjected to a series of ballistic and explosive assaults designed to simulate real-world threats faced by political leaders.

The test protocol included:

• Firing 440 rounds of NATO Ball M80 ammunition, commonly used in military rifles such as the M14 and AK-47, at the vehicle from multiple angles.
• Detonating 11 DM51 hand grenades and anti-vehicle mines both under the car and on the roof to assess resistance to blasts.

According to VinFast and independent observers, the bullets were fired at a 90-degree angle and at various other positions to test the integrity of the body, windows, and chassis. The grenades and mines caused only minor dents to the undercarriage and roof, with the main structure remaining intact and uncompromised.

The limousine is armored to the VPAM VR7 standard, one of the highest levels of civilian vehicle protection, ensuring it can withstand high-powered rifle fire and explosive devices. The bulletproof rear partition, supplied by Canada-based Inkas Armored Vehicle Manufacturing, adds an extra layer of security for passengers.

What Does VPAM VR7 Certification Mean?

VPAM (Vereinigung der Prüfstellen für angriffshemmende Materialien und Konstruktionen) is a German association that sets international standards for armored vehicles. The VR7 certification means the vehicle can withstand rifle fire from weapons like the AK-47 and M14, as well as blasts from hand grenades and mines. This level of protection is typically reserved for vehicles transporting heads of state, high-ranking officials, and other high-risk individuals.

For comparison, other luxury armored limousines, such as the BMW 7 Series Protection and Mercedes-Benz S-Class Guard, are also tested to VPAM standards. The BMW i7 Protection, for example, is certified to VR9, which offers even greater resistance, including protection against sniper rifles and heavy machine guns. However, VR7 is already considered more than sufficient for most real-world threats faced by political VIPs.

Inside the Lac Hong 900 LX: Features and Capabilities

The Lac Hong 900 LX is available in both standard and bulletproof versions. The armored model weighs 5 tons, compared to 3 tons for the standard version, due to the extensive use of reinforced steel, ballistic glass, and specialized materials throughout the body and chassis.

Key features of the bulletproof version include:

• Reinforced body, chassis, and windows for maximum ballistic protection
• Bulletproof rear partition by Inkas Armored Vehicle Manufacturing
• 19-inch wheels fitted with Japan’s Falken run-flat tires, allowing the vehicle to travel 80-100 kilometers even after a puncture
• VPAM VR7 bulletproof package
• Range of 450 kilometers per charge, making it one of the few electric armored limousines with substantial operational range
• Optional specialized equipment such as an oxygen support system and integrated fire-fighting system

These features ensure that the limousine not only provides top-tier protection but also maintains the comfort and functionality expected of a vehicle transporting high-level officials.

How VinFast’s Limousine Compares to Global Armored Vehicles

Armored limousines are a staple for world leaders, with models like the US President’s Cadillac One (“The Beast”), Russia’s Aurus Senat, and the UK’s Bentley State Limousine setting the benchmark for security and luxury. These vehicles typically feature:

• Armored steel and composite bodywork
• Ballistic glass capable of stopping high-caliber rounds
• Blast-resistant floors and roofs
• Run-flat tires and self-sealing fuel tanks
• Advanced communication and emergency systems

VinFast’s Lac Hong 900 LX matches many of these features, particularly in terms of ballistic and blast protection. While the BMW i7 Protection is currently the only other electric armored limousine certified to similar standards, VinFast’s offering is notable for its combination of electric mobility, range, and advanced security features tailored for the needs of political VIPs in Asia and beyond.

VinFast’s Growing Ambitions and Global Context

VinFast, established in 2017 as a subsidiary of Vingroup, has rapidly become a major player in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The company has delivered nearly 10,000 electric cars in April 2025 alone, with cumulative domestic sales exceeding 44,000 units for the year. Its product lineup includes the VF 3, VF 5, VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, and VF 9 models, as well as electric buses and scooters.

VinFast’s ambitions extend far beyond Vietnam. The company has started construction of a $200 million EV assembly plant in Indonesia, aiming for an annual capacity of 50,000 vehicles and targeting the Southeast Asian market. In the United States, VinFast ranked 23rd in electric vehicle sales in the first quarter of 2024, selling 927 units and outpacing established brands like Mini and Jaguar. The company is also preparing to launch electric buses in Europe and has received approval to build a $4 billion factory in North Carolina.

Financially, VinFast is backed by Pham Nhat Vuong, Vietnam’s richest man, whose net worth surged by $39 billion following VinFast’s listing on the Nasdaq stock exchange. The company’s market capitalization briefly exceeded that of Ford and General Motors, highlighting investor confidence in its growth potential.

Quality Control and Safety Record

VinFast’s rapid expansion has not been without challenges. Earlier in 2024, the company recalled nearly 6,000 VF 5 Plus electric vehicles to address a headlight malfunction. The issue, traced to a supplier’s hardware component, was resolved quickly and without any reported incidents. This proactive approach to quality control is crucial for maintaining trust, especially as VinFast ventures into the high-stakes world of armored vehicles for government use.

Why Armored Limousines Matter for Political Leaders

For heads of state and high-ranking officials, security is paramount. Armored limousines serve as mobile fortresses, protecting occupants from assassination attempts, terrorist attacks, and other threats. The vehicles are designed to withstand gunfire, explosions, and chemical attacks, while also providing a comfortable and discreet environment for conducting official business.

According to automotive security experts, the choice of armored vehicle depends on the threat level, operational requirements, and the need for discretion or visibility. The most advanced models, like the US President’s Cadillac One or the Queen’s Bentley State Limousine, combine state-of-the-art protection with luxury features and advanced communications systems.

VinFast’s entry into this market signals Vietnam’s growing technological capabilities and its desire to provide world-class security for its leaders and visiting dignitaries. The Lac Hong 900 LX’s successful security tests demonstrate that Vietnamese engineering can now compete with established global brands in one of the most demanding automotive segments.

Expert Perspectives on VinFast’s Achievement

Industry analysts view VinFast’s armored limousine as a significant achievement for Vietnam’s automotive sector. By meeting international standards like VPAM VR7 and collaborating with established security firms such as Inkas Armored Vehicle Manufacturing, VinFast has positioned itself as a credible supplier of high-security vehicles.

Speaking about the significance of the security tests, a spokesperson from Beschussamt Ulm, the German testing center, explained:

“Our ballistic and blast tests are designed to simulate the most extreme real-world scenarios. The Lac Hong 900 LX performed exceptionally well, maintaining structural integrity and passenger safety throughout the process.”

Vietnamese officials have also praised the vehicle’s debut. A representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated:

“The introduction of the Lac Hong 900 LX enhances our ability to safely transport international guests and demonstrates Vietnam’s commitment to security and innovation.”

What to Know

• VinFast’s Lac Hong 900 LX armored limousine withstood 440 bullets and 11 grenades in security tests at Germany’s Beschussamt Ulm center.
• The vehicle is certified to the VPAM VR7 standard, offering top-tier protection for political VIPs against rifle fire and explosions.
• Key features include a reinforced body, bulletproof rear partition, run-flat tires, and a 450-kilometer electric range.
• VinFast has delivered the first batch of limousines to Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for use during National Day and official visits.
• The company is rapidly expanding its global presence, with new factories in Indonesia and the US, and growing EV sales in multiple markets.
• VinFast’s achievement marks a milestone for Vietnam’s automotive industry and showcases its ability to compete with established global brands in high-security vehicle manufacturing.