As President Xi Jinping embarks on his first visit to the United States in six years, the focus is not just on diplomatic discussions but also on the formidable vehicles that transport world leaders.
Xi arrived in California, cruising in his custom Hongqi N701, while President Joe Biden’s Beast stands as a symbol of American presidential security.
Xi Jinping’s Hongqi N701
Xi’s 18-feet long Hongqi N701, costing at least $700,000, is a luxurious sedan equipped with anti-rocket armor plates, bulletproof windows, and advanced systems to protect against chemical and biological threats.
A creation of Hongqi, a subsidiary of FAW Car Co, the N701 is China’s answer to opulent vehicles like the Rolls-Royce Phantom. The sedan, powered by a six-liter V12 turbocharged engine, boasts exclusivity, expense, and imposing features.
The Beast: Joe Biden’s Impenetrable Cadillac
In contrast, President Biden’s Beast, a 10-ton Cadillac worth $1.5 million, surpasses the Hongqi N701 in sheer size and security features.
The American presidential vehicle includes night vision cameras, tear gas cannons, and eight inches of armor. Its doors weigh as much as those on a Boeing 757 aircraft, and pneumatic run-flat tires ensure the car remains operational even if deflated.
Security Features Comparison
While both vehicles prioritize the safety of their respective leaders, the Beast’s specifications are more publicly known.
It was designed to withstand chemical and biological attacks, bullets, and explosions. The chassis is considered effectively ‘indestructible,’ with three-inch thick windows and eight inches of steel-and-ceramic armor. The rear compartment includes a glass partition, allowing the president to control privacy.
Xi’s Commitment to Chinese-Made Vehicles
President Xi’s choice of the Hongqi N701 aligns with his 2012 statement that China’s leaders should use Chinese cars, emphasizing national pride. The N701, an upgraded version of the Hongqi L5, made its debut in 2022, and only 50 models will be built over the next decade.
Summit and Diplomatic Discussions
Xi’s visit involves a high-profile meeting with President Biden and participation in the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. The face-to-face meeting is a crucial opportunity to address the strained ties between the two nations and discuss a range of issues, including economic matters and global conflicts.
As leaders engage in diplomatic discussions, their choice of vehicles reflects not only personal preferences but also the priorities and perceptions of their respective nations.
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