PMX takes historic ride in "The Beast" with Trump at ASEAN Summit
Photo credit : Pejabat Perdana Menteri Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur recently hosted the 47th ASEAN Summit, but the talk of the town wasn't just diplomacy—it was a head-turning ride. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (PMX) was spotted taking an unprecedented ride in "The Beast," the official state limousine of U.S. President Donald Trump.
This marked the second time the famous Cadillac One has been on Malaysian soil, the first being in 2014 when it transported then-President Barack Obama. This time, two units of the imposing vehicle were flown into the country aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III, with one serving as a decoy.
Trump Was Delighted to Break the Rules
What made this ride so significant was that it reportedly broke standard U.S. Secret Service protocol. During his address, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim shared the details of the unique experience.
According to PMX, President Trump personally invited him to ride along in the heavily fortified limousine. “Trump was delighted to break the rules. It was a nice ride,” Anwar said, noting that the experience was both unexpected and memorable.
What is "The Beast"?
"The Beast," officially known as Cadillac One, is far from a standard production car. While styled to resemble a Cadillac CT6, it is built by General Motors on a modified Chevrolet Kodiak truck chassis to handle its immense weight and armour.
Entering service in 2018, this presidential limousine is valued at between USD $1.5 million and $2 million (approximately RM6.3–8.4 million).
Photo credit : Pejabat Perdana Menteri Malaysia
A Fortress on Wheels: Inside The Beast's Security
The vehicle's estimated nine-tonne weight is due to its incredible security features, making it one of the most protected vehicles on the planet.
Heavy Armour: The vehicle’s armour plating is estimated to be up to eight inches thick, constructed from a layered composite of steel, aluminum, titanium, and ceramic.
Impenetrable Glass: The multi-layer, bullet-resistant glass measures between five and eight inches thick.
Sealed Cabin: The interior is hermetically sealed against chemical attacks and has its own independent oxygen supply.
Run-Flat Tyres: The tyres are Kevlar-reinforced and run-flat, ensuring the vehicle can escape even if they are punctured.
Advanced Engine: Power comes from a 6.6-litre Duramax V8 diesel engine, producing around 300 horsepower and 700Nm of torque.
Emergency Ready: The Beast functions as a mobile command centre with secure communications linked to the White House and Pentagon. It also carries a refrigerated section storing blood bags matching the president's blood type, and its fuel tank is armour-plated to resist explosions.
A Memorable Summit
The 47th ASEAN Summit will be remembered for its diplomatic achievements, but for many Malaysians, the image of PMX riding in "The Beast" alongside President Trump will remain a standout moment—a unique blend of automotive marvel and international relations.
Read More: Kuala Lumpur on high alert: major road closures expected for Trump's ASEAN Summit visit
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