SVI Engineering, a leading specialist manufacturer of armoured products, has launched a new factory-backed B6 armouring package for the UD Kuzer RKE 150 truck. The package incorporates a full cab replacement to ensure the ultimate level of protection.
Trading its entire standard cab for a version custom fabricated from bullet-resistant steel and featuring top-quality ballistic glass, the SVI-converted UD Kuzer truck offers its driver and front passengers comprehensive B6 protection against assault rifles up to 7.62x51 mm (including AK47, R5 and R1).
UD Trucks Southern Africa fully approves the conversion. As such, the new armouring solution can be ordered through any dealer in the Japanese firm’s local network, with the standard manufacturer warranty remaining firmly in place.
“We developed this cab-replacement solution for clients transporting high-value cargo – such as electronics, cigarettes and even food products – and several other applications. For example, since the UD Kuzer’s load body design is adaptable to various customer requirements, it can be configured as a cash-in-transit (CIT) vehicle or even an armoured personnel carrier (APC). In addition, we offer the option to shorten the chassis, if required,” said Jaco de Kock, CEO of SVI.
This solution – which includes an escape hatch in the roof – saves weight compared with the normal armouring process, as the standard cab is entirely removed. As such, after adding the replacement cab and a standard box body, the SVI-armoured UD Kuzer RKE 150 boasts a payload as generous as 3 700 kg.
The cab design features flat ballistic glass bolted into each window frame (including gunports in the windscreen and side windows) to allow for fuss-free replacement should damage be sustained during an attack. The unique cab construction furthermore protects engine components and includes a tilting nose plate to facilitate routine maintenance, ensuring serviceability remains as close as possible to that of the standard truck.
The B6 cab replacement for the UD Kuzer RKE 150 – which is available in both manual and automatic guise – is priced from R597 780 (excluding VAT). At the same time, various box body options are offered (as is SVI’s optional intelligent locking system, which boasts geofencing and one-time pin functionality). The build time is set at approximately three months, though this drops to as little as a single month should SVI have a cab in stock.
“The total cost – including the base truck, the B6-armoured replacement cab, the selected box body and installation – is similar to the price tag of a standard top-spec double-cab bakkie. As such, this versatile armoured solution offers comprehensive ballistic protection and unbeatable value. The fact the conversion is fully approved by UD Trucks Southern Africa is simply the cherry on top,” said SVI Business Development Director, Nicol Louw.