It’s undeniable that the government possesses some of the coolest vehicles. A Cadillac limo powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel? Good luck finding that at a dealership. Then there are the Chevrolet Suburban HDs cruising the streets of Washington, D.C. I occasionally see those listed for sale, but right now, a small group of them is available—fully armored and fitted with Lingenfelter superchargers.
I first came across a couple of Suburban HDs on Facebook, with the listing indicating they were in Texas. Ben Kelsey, the seller, informed me that he had purchased them directly from an armored vehicle manufacturer. Shortly after, Northeast Auto Imports listed an identical truck—and it’s one of four!
As it happens, each of these Suburban HDs was leased to the government for duties with the Secret Service and Capitol Police. Most are nearly identical, although one of Kelsey’s is an LS trim without armor, and one of Northeast Auto Imports’ Suburbans is white. (Kelsey’s non-armored model also lacks a supercharger.)
“When I bought [the first one], I didn’t realize it was armored,” Kelsey shared. “I was actually getting it for myself. I thought, ‘Supercharged? Awesome. Good price. I’ll take it.’ When I arrived, I said, ‘Oh, this is not what I anticipated.’”
Kelsey mentioned it drives like a massive boat, which makes sense considering its nearly 12,000-pound curb weight. “It doesn’t want to turn. It doesn’t want to stop. It just wants to go straight. That’s all,” he stated.
Derek Griffith, owner of Northeast Auto Imports, explained how he found these behemoths. “We happened to drive by the facility and started discussing [acquiring] these a bit more regularly,” he said. “All four are the exact same model years and armored configurations except that one truck is white, which is, I guess, extremely rare.”
Kelsey mentioned he intends to keep his non-armored Suburban HD, unless he can locate a white one. Perhaps he should negotiate a deal with Griffith and Co.
In any case, these Suburban HDs feature a 6.0-liter V8, with five of the six having upgraded heads and a Lingenfelter supercharger. Run-flat tires are standard on the armored versions, mounted on eight-lug wheels that attach to one-ton axles. This specialization makes them especially notable, as most Suburban HDs utilize three-quarter-ton Silverado 2500 components.
Kelsey’s version boasts the lowest mileage currently on the market at 21,000 miles, priced at $139,000. Northeast Auto Imports has listed one unit so far with 35,000 miles, priced at $105,000. When I conversed with Griffith over the phone, he had just finished speaking with a potential buyer and is receiving offers on his units even before they’re officially available. Similarly, Kelsey is likely to sell his quickly, given he resides in truck-enthusiast Texas.
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**Chevy Suburban HDs with Superchargers Formerly Used by Secret Service Now Available for Sale to the Public**
In an exhilarating development for automotive aficionados and collectors, a select few Chevy Suburban HDs outfitted with superchargers, once employed by the Secret Service, are now accessible for public acquisition. These vehicles, recognized for their endurance, performance, and distinct history, present buyers with a unique chance to possess a piece of government-grade machinery.
**Overview of the Chevy Suburban HD**
The Chevy Suburban has long been a cornerstone in the full-size SUV segment, celebrated for its roomy interior, strong towing capacity, and off-road prowess. The HD (Heavy Duty) version amplifies these attributes with a more powerful engine, fortified suspension, and increased payload capacity, making it an excellent option for demanding tasks. The Suburban has been a preferred choice for numerous government agencies, including the Secret Service, due to its dependability and ability to deliver both protection and comfort for prominent figures.
**Supercharger Enhancements**
The supercharger upgrades found in these Suburban HDs considerably enhance their performance. Supercharging elevates the engine’s air intake, leading to greater horsepower and torque. This enhancement enables the vehicle to accelerate more swiftly and manage heavier loads effortlessly. For buyers, this translates to not just a thrilling driving experience but also the capability to navigate diverse terrains and conditions, making it fit for both daily use and adventurous escapades.
**Specifications for Secret Service Vehicles**
The Suburbans utilized by the Secret Service were specially tailored to comply with rigorous security and performance requirements. These vehicles commonly feature reinforced body elements, advanced suspension systems, and cutting-edge communication apparatus. The inclusion of a supercharger further boosts their performance, enabling rapid responses in critical scenarios. The vehicles have been meticulously cared for, ensuring they remain in superb condition for their future owners.
**Market Availability and Interest**
The emergence of these distinctive Chevy Suburban HDs has sparked considerable excitement among collectors, outdoor lovers, and individuals searching for a reliable family vehicle with a rich history. Auctions and specialty vehicle dealers are anticipated to showcase these models, frequently accompanied by documents outlining their history and modifications. Given their unique background and enhanced capabilities, these vehicles are expected to command a premium price in the marketplace.
**Conclusion**
The introduction of Chevy Suburban HDs fitted with superchargers, previously used by the Secret Service, offers a singular opportunity for buyers in search of a powerful, trustworthy, and historically significant vehicle. With their enhanced performance attributes and solid construction, these SUVs represent not just vehicles; they merge history, power, and practicality, appealing to a broad range of automotive enthusiasts. As they become available for public purchase, interested buyers should act swiftly to secure one of these remarkable machines.