The US Presidential State Car is the official state car used by the President of the United States. Analogous to the President's use of an airplane designated Air Force One, the automobile—traditionally a limousine—is informally known as "Cadillac One".
The current presidential limousine entered service on January 20, 2009, upon the inauguration of Barack Obama. According to GM, the manufacturer, the "2009 Cadillac Presidential Limousine" is the first not to carry a specific model name.
"Cadillac One" General Specification
Most details of the car are classified for security reasons. It is completely fitted with military grade armor 8 inches thick for maximum protection, and the wheels are fitted with run flat tires. Due to the thickness of the glass, much natural light is excluded, so a fluorescent halo lighting system in the headliner is essential.
The car can seat seven people, including the president. The front seats two, and includes a console-mounted communications center. A glass partition divides the front from back. Three rear facing seats are in the back, with cushions that are able to fold over the partition. The two rear seats are reserved for the president and another passenger; these seats have the ability to recline individually. A folding desk is between the two rear seats. Storage compartments in the interior panels of the car contain communications equipment. The Secret Service refers to the heavily-armored vehicle as "the beast".
On domestic trips, Cadillac One displays the American and presidential standard, which are illuminated by directional flood lights mounted on the hood. When the President performs a state visit to a foreign country, the presidential standard is replaced by the foreign country's flag. The limousine is airlifted for domestic and international use primarily by a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III.
The United States government also operates similarly designed limousines for VIP guests, visiting heads of government, and heads of state.
source: wikipedia.org
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