Diplomats can appear forward to a new ride as the U.S. Department of State has awarded GM Defense a contract for the subsequent-generation armored Heavy-Duty Sport Utility Vehicle.

The HD SUVs, as they’re recognized, will be employed by the Diplomatic Security Service and have protective armoring incorporated into their original design and style and manufacturing approach. This stands in contrast to the standard strategy exactly where the automobile is constructed and then taken to an aftermarket business, who tears it apart, adds armoring, and then reassembles every little thing.

GM Defense says their method “provides superior vehicle performance while improving efficiencies in build and lead-time, resulting in faster vehicle delivery to the end user.” The business also noted the model will come with a “robust manufacturer’s warranty” as effectively as a longer lifespan than standard aftermarket armored autos.

More: America’s New Armored Chevy Suburban Is Almost Ready For Government Service

While the HD SUV appears like a run-of-the-mill Chevrolet Suburban, the model rides on a distinctive physique-on-frame chassis and sports a hardcore suspension made to “support the increased vehicle weight and performance requirements” of protection perform. Despite that, the model makes use of a “high percentage of commercial-off-the-shelf parts” such as the physique, interior, and powertrain.

The ten-year complete-price production contract is valued at up to $300 (£238 / €276) million. It follows an earlier improvement and validation contract, which resulted in the creation and delivery of prototypes for testing and evaluation.

GM Defense President Steve duMont mentioned the HD SUV showcases their “ability to leverage the proven commercial platforms and world-class engineering and manufacturing processes of GM to provide a first-of-its-kind vehicle for the Department of State.” He added the business appears forward to “bringing this exciting new platform to other U.S. government and allied defense and security customers around the world.” While he didn’t mention names, the Secret Service would look like a organic candidate.