Bulletproof SVI AK47 Golf 8 GTI revealed in South Africa
SVI Engineering, a leading manufacturer of armoured vehicles in South Africa, has pulled the covers from their new AK47 Golf 8 GTI, a bulletproof rapid-response vehicle built specifically for Mzansi's crime-ridden roads, with the ability to stop AK47 rounds!
SVI, an original equipment manufacturer that has specialised in armoured vehicles since 2004, has just revealed the ultimate hot hatch: A fully armoured Golf 8 GTI, designed to address the daily security challenges faced in South Africa. This discreetly armoured vehicle offers protection against handguns and rifles up to 7.62x39 mm, including the widely used AK-47! It's ideal for urban rapid-response situations, emergency medical services (EMS) non-transport applications, and even pursuit vehicles.
Low-key, yet effective armour for rapid response
Standard hot hatches equipped with level B4 armour are suitable for rapid response, but they leave occupants vulnerable to more powerful firearms. The SVI AK47 Golf 8 GTI takes care of this problem. Nicol Louw, SVI's Business Development Director, explains that this car may be the fastest way to reach crime scenes while also providing sufficient ballistic protection.
Related: Which cars are hijacked most often in SA?
A seamlessly integrated armour package
The SVI AK47 Golf 8 GTI features a custom-designed armour package that integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's design. This package includes:
- Discreetly integrated, custom-fabricated B4+ body armour
- Advanced ballistic glass
This bullet-resistant solution was showcased at Securex 2024, Africa's leading security and fire trade exhibition. The package is compatible with both the front-wheel-drive Golf 8 GTI and the all-wheel-drive Golf 8 R.
Maximum protection, minimum weight
SVI's engineers leveraged their extensive experience in civilian and security vehicle armour to create a bespoke package for the Golf 8. Their primary objective was to ensure protection against AK-47 rounds. This was achieved using:
- 3.5 mm armoured steel plating
- Revolutionary lightweight ballistic glass rated to stop four shots from an AK47 in a 300 mm square
For maximum safety, SVI opted for high-grade armoured steel for critical areas like the doors, pillars, and roof, rather than composite materials. The kit also features a clever rear bulkhead solution with a camera feeding video to the rear-view mirror. This eliminates the need for tailgate armour, saving weight and cost.
Critical powertrain components are protected by armour installed in the front fenders. The battery and suspension springs are also upgraded front and rear. Despite these additions, the armouring package only adds approximately 340 kg to the car, with minimal impact on the Golf's renowned handling and acceleration.
Powerhouse performance remains the same
The SVI AK47 Golf 8 GTI retains the impressive performance of the original Golf. Here's a breakdown of the engine options:
Front-wheel-drive Golf 8 GTI: 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol-engine delivering 180 kW and 370 Nm of torque.
All-wheel-drive Golf 8 R: 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol-engine producing 235 kW and 400 Nm of torque.
Pricing for the SVI AK47 Golf GTI
SVI's bespoke AK47 armouring package for the Volkswagen Golf 8 (GTI or R variant) is priced at R649,500 (excluding VAT and the base vehicle cost). The project build time is approximately three months.
Tackling SA's specific security needs
The fight against crime in South Africa demands custom solutions. The SVI AK47 Golf 8 GTI is a prime example, offering rapid responders in various sectors, including private security, the speed and protection they need to perform their duties effectively.
SVI also offers an armoured Ford Ranger and an armoured VW Amarok.
