Vladimir Putin’s presidential limousine: See what makes Aurus Senat a fortress on wheels

As Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in India on a state visit and is welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, December 4, the spotlight is also on Aurus Senat, the official presidential limousine that travels with him on most foreign visits. Here are 7 key facts about Putin’s moving fortress. (Image: PTI)

1. Built Under a National Project | The limousine is made by Aurus and was developed by NAMI under the ‘Kortezh’ project, which created a homegrown presidential car for Russia. (Image: Reuters)

2. Official Since 2018 | The car was first shown publicly at Putin’s 2018 inauguration and has been the official presidential vehicle ever since. (Image: Reuters)

3. Low-Volume Production | Series production started in 2021 after years of prototype work. Output is limited and mainly meant for state use and a small number of civilian buyers. (Image: Reuters)

4. Price: Civilian vs Presidential | The civilian version is listed at about 18 million rubles. Armoured presidential models are custom-built, cost much more, and are not sold to the public. Media estimates go up to about 50 million rubles (around ₹5.5 crore), though there is no official confirmation. (Image: Reuters)

5. Luxury Meets Protection | Aurus Senat replaced the older presidential Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard Pullman. Built to Federal Protective Service standards, it blends heavy security with comfort: leather interiors, soft lighting, and premium wood trim. (Image: Reuters)

6. A Fortress on Wheels | The car has a multi-layer armoured body and ballistic glass to resist high-calibre firing and some blast effects. It also has a protected underbody, reinforced frame, run-flat and self-sealing tyres, a sealed cabin with air filtration and emergency oxygen, plus secure communications that let the president function as a mobile command centre (details are classified). (Image: Reuters)

7. It Travels with Putin Abroad | The Kremlin usually ships one or more Senat limousines during foreign visits as part of the security convoy. In Russia, the motorcade can include escorts from Ural and BMW, backed by the Special Purpose Garage fleet. Support vehicles may include Mercedes-Benz G-Class and S-Class models, Volkswagen Caravelle-type vans, and others. On foreign trips, the host country’s security also adds vehicles. (Image: Reuters)