Netanyahu to ride in million-dollar car

The A8 Security was launched in late 2007. It is based on the W12 version of the Audi A8, with a 12-cylinder, 6-liter engine, an output of some 450 horsepower and four-wheel drive.

By DUBI BEN-GEDALYAHU, LILACH WEISSMAN / GLOBES
311_Netanyahu's new ride (photo credit: Courtesy)
311_Netanyahu's new ride
(photo credit: Courtesy)
The most expensive car ever to travel on our roads will arrive in Israel shortly: the prime minister’s new official car, an armored Audi A8 Security, which will replace various German and American cars that have been used for that purpose.
The full price of the car, which is certified to be the highest bullet-proofing classes B6-plus and B7, according to the European standard, is $685,000 before taxes. However, the car ordered for Israel has many unique improvements and upgrades according to specifications of the Israeli security forces.
Automotive industry sources estimate the official price of the whole project, including additions, at $750,000-$850,000 before taxes. Full tax is paid on official government cars, but often there is an exemption for the protection element, which forms a large part of the price of this vehicle. The price of the car including tax will be about $1 million.
The A8 Security was launched in late 2007. It is based on the W12 version of the Audi A8, with a 12-cylinder, 6-liter engine, an output of some 450 horsepower and four-wheel drive. According to the manufacturer, its passenger compartment is protected against bullets and hand grenades. It has electronically controlled air suspension to support the great weight of the vehicle and the special safety systems.
Its safety features include bulletproof tires, a device that blows the doors off if they have become jammed by shock waves, an oxygen supply system and an automatic fire-extinguishing system. It has a wide-screen DVD player, a refrigerator and a device for keeping cigars moist.
The state has been previously procured A8 Security cars, used in recent years to transport VIPs. One of them is now the official vehicle of former prime minister Ehud Olmert. However, these were standard cars that were leased from Audi.