The U.S. Secret Service is partnering with GM Defense to develop a vehicle that better blends into its surroundings rather than commanding attention when deployed overseas.
Until now, the agency’s ground operations have largely relied on heavily armored Chevrolet Suburbans painted black that, while functional and relatively inconspicuous in America—stand out in international deployments.
Secret Service Director Sean Curran told Car and Driver the development process with GM Defence is “based on the terrain, based on the threat environment, and just our needs.” In regions such as Africa, he suggested, a purpose-built platform would fare better, allowing the agency to operate without immediately telegraphing its presence with oversized black SUVs.
Historically, the agency has retrofitted civilian vehicles with armor, often resulting in heavy, awkward configurations— industry insiders sometimes call these “Monster Garage” builds. The new effort with GM Defense aims to create vehicles that are designed for armor from the outset—meaning optimized frames, powertrains, and structural components.
Although, to be fair, it’s not clear how a bespoke, purpose-built vehicle will blend in any better than the agency’s existing black Suburbans—but I guess that’s just how government works.
Curran would not reveal technical specifics, yet mentioned three potential paths being considered.
One is the Infantry Squad Vehicle—the M1301 ISV—derived from the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, known for its mobility and light utility structure. Another candidate is GM Defense’s Light Utility Vehicle (LUV), a variant built on GM’s heavy-duty Silverado architecture, but it’s really only used by the Canadian Armed Forces. The third, less predictable possibility is a brand new platform developed specifically for the Secret Service.
This is the second time this year the Secret Service and GM Defense are in the news together. GM has also been developing next-generation presidential limousines under a multimillion-dollar contract with the White House.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
More by Michael Accardi
