Independence Day 2025: Which Car Did PM Modi Arrive in? All You Need to Know

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India’s 79th Independence Day at the Red Fort in a Range Rover Sentinel, an armored SUV by Land Rover. This vehicle features enhanced security with a certified protection cell, capable of withstanding various attacks, and weighs over 4.4 tonnes. It is powered by a 5.0L supercharged V8 engine, achieving 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds. The Sentinel also includes advanced technology and safety features, with an estimated cost of over Rs 10 crore, ensuring robust protection for the Prime Minister.

Photo : TIMES DRIVE

PM Modi Arrive in Range Rover Sentinel at Red Fort for Independence Day 2025 (image: screenshot from DD visuals)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Red Fort for the celebration of India’s 79th Independence Day celebrations in his Range Rover Sentinel. This version of the Range Rover is an armoured SUV developed by Land Rover ’s Special Vehicle Operations division. On this occasion his car arrived in an entourage of black SUVs with the Range Rover Sentinel leading from the front. Here is all you need to know about PM Modi’s armoured SUV.

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How does the performance of the 2025 Land Rover Defender compare to the Range Rover Sentinel?

The 2025 Land Rover Defender is powered by a new V8 P425 engine, delivering 420 bhp, which enhances its on-road and off-road capabilities. In contrast, the Range Rover Sentinel has a 5.0L supercharged V8 engine producing around 375-380 bhp. While both vehicles offer impressive performance, the Defender focuses more on versatility across terrains, whereas the Sentinel is designed primarily for security and protection.

What are the key safety features of the Land Rover Defender that differentiate it from the Range Rover Sentinel?

The Land Rover Defender includes advanced safety features such as a 3D surround camera, electronic air suspension, and adaptive dynamics, which enhance its off-road capabilities and overall handling. On the other hand, the Range Rover Sentinel is equipped with multi-layer armoured glass and run-flat tyres designed specifically for high-security situations. While both vehicles offer safety, their features cater to different needs: the Defender for versatile driving and the Sentinel for protection.

What unique features does the 2025 Range Rover Sport offer compared to the Range Rover Sentinel?

The 2025 Range Rover Sport features a semi-aniline leather interior, a 13.1-inch Pivi Pro infotainment system, and advanced climate control, enhancing comfort and technology for passengers. In contrast, the Range Rover Sentinel focuses on security with its armoured design and protective features. While the Sentinel is built for safety, the Range Rover Sport aims to provide a luxurious driving experience with modern amenities.

How does the price of the Range Rover Sentinel compare with other luxury SUVs like the Land Rover Defender and the Rolls-Royce Cullinan?

The Range Rover Sentinel is estimated to cost over Rs 10 crore, making it one of the more expensive SUVs due to its specialized armoured features. In comparison, the 2025 Land Rover Defender starts at Rs 1.39 crore, while the bulletproof Rolls-Royce Cullinan can exceed Rs 13 crore with modifications. This highlights the premium pricing of the Sentinel due to its security specifications compared to other luxury SUVs.

What are the environmental considerations regarding the vehicles used by high-profile individuals like PM Modi and Mukesh Ambani?

Both PM Modi's Range Rover Sentinel and Mukesh Ambani's bulletproof Rolls-Royce Cullinan are diesel and petrol vehicles, respectively, which raises concerns about emissions and environmental impact. The Supreme Court's recent ruling allowing older diesel vehicles to remain operational highlights ongoing debates about vehicle pollution in urban areas. This situation emphasizes the need for high-security vehicles to adapt to more sustainable technologies amid growing environmental regulations.

Range Rover Sentinel: Design & Protection

The Sentinel is a purpose-built security vehicle. Manufactured by Land Rover, a Tata Motors subsidiary, it comes with a certified protection cell meeting global ballistic and blast protection standards. The armour can withstand high-velocity armour-piercing rounds, grenade explosions, and IED blasts. Armour plating covers the roof, sides, and underbody, while multi-layer armoured glass provides all-round protection.
Externally, the SUV maintains a standard Range Rover silhouette with subtle additions like integrated LED lights in the bumper.

Range Rover Sentinel: Engine & Performance

Power comes from a 5.0L supercharged V8 petrol engine delivering about 375 to 380 bhp, an increase of 40 bhp over the earlier V6 version. Despite weighing over 4.4 tonnes, the Sentinel can reach 100 kmph in 10.4 seconds and has a top speed of 193 kmph.

Range Rover Sentinel: Safety

Key features include a public address system for external communication, a driver’s window with a 150 mm drop for document exchange, and provisions for sirens and emergency lighting packs. The SUV is equipped with run-flat all-terrain tyres capable of travelling up to 80 km at speeds of 80 kmph even when punctured. Its chassis and suspension are reinforced to handle the added weight of armour.

Range Rover Sentinel: Technology

On the inside, the Sentinel retains the Range Rover’s standard layout. It features the Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with two 10-inch touchscreens, increased headroom and legroom, and rear entertainment displays for passengers.

Range Rover Sentinel: Price

The Range Rover Sentinel which carries out duties for the PMO is estimated to cost over Rs 10 crore in India. This SUV has been a regular part of the Prime Minister’s convoy, offering the security specifications required for high-profile public appearances.
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