In a significant move aimed at promoting austerity and reducing fuel consumption, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly ordered a major reduction in the size of his official convoy. Recent visuals circulating on social media show the Prime Minister travelling in a much smaller convoy in Delhi, consisting of just two SUVs — a heavily armoured Range Rover Sentinel and a Toyota Fortuner.
The development comes days after the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption amid ongoing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties.
PM’s Convoy Downsized From Over 10 Vehicles
Traditionally, the Prime Minister’s motorcade has included multiple security and support vehicles as part of standard Special Protection Group (SPG) protocols. However, according to reports, the convoy has now been significantly downsized from over 10 vehicles to just two primary SUVs.
Sources suggest the decision is part of a broader effort to encourage fuel conservation and demonstrate administrative austerity at the highest level of government.
At the same time, the SPG — the elite force responsible for the Prime Minister’s security — has reportedly been directed to increase the use of electric vehicles in the convoy wherever possible.
Importantly, reports indicate that PM Modi has also instructed officials not to procure new vehicles specifically for this transition. Instead, the focus will remain on optimising existing resources without compromising security arrangements laid out under the official “Blue Book” protocols.
Range Rover Sentinel: PM Modi’s Armoured Security SUV
One of the two vehicles seen in the convoy is the Range Rover Sentinel, a specially armoured luxury SUV widely regarded as one of the safest vehicles in the world for VIP movement.
The SUV features VR8-level ballistic protection, enabling it to withstand direct attacks from 7.62 mm armour-piercing bullets. It is also engineered to survive high-intensity explosive attacks, including blasts equivalent to up to 15 kilograms of TNT.
The Sentinel additionally comes equipped with:
- Fire suppression systems
- Reinforced armoured body panels
- Blast-resistant flooring and roof
- Independent oxygen supply system
- Emergency communication and public address systems
Despite its military-grade safety equipment, the SUV also retains the premium comfort and luxury associated with the Range Rover brand.
Toyota Fortuner Also Part Of PM’s Smaller Convoy
The second SUV spotted in the Prime Minister’s reduced convoy is the Toyota Fortuner, one of the most popular full-size SUVs in the Indian market.
Known for its durability, reliability and strong road presence, the Fortuner is frequently used by security agencies and government officials across India.
The SUV sold in India is available with two engine options:
- A 2.7-litre petrol engine producing 166 hp
- A 2.8-litre diesel engine generating 204 hp
The diesel version also offers four-wheel drive capability, making it suitable for a wide range of operating conditions.
For use in the Prime Minister’s convoy, the vehicle is believed to have been extensively modified with additional security and protection equipment.
Push For Fuel Conservation Amid Global Concerns
The decision to scale down the convoy comes at a time when India is focusing on conserving fuel and strengthening economic resilience amid global instability, including rising crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The move is also being viewed as a symbolic message from the Prime Minister encouraging responsible fuel consumption and administrative discipline across government departments.