The story of U.S. presidential cars mirrors the evolution of American technology, design, and security. From elegant horse-drawn carriages to high-tech armored limousines, every vehicle used by the Commander-in-Chief reflects its time and priorities.
The Horse-Drawn Era
In the early 1900s, President Theodore Roosevelt traveled in a stylish horse-drawn brougham — a symbol of dignity and prestige. Even when President William Taft introduced the first White House automobiles, horse carriages continued serving for logistics until the arrival of the Ford Model A in 1928.
1939 Lincoln Sunshine Special
The first custom-built presidential car, designed for Franklin D. Roosevelt, became known as the Sunshine Special. Roosevelt often greeted crowds from its open-top cabin, embodying optimism and connection with the public.
After Pearl Harbor, the car was upgraded with armor plating and bulletproof tires, setting the standard for future presidential vehicles.
1950 Lincoln Convertible
Built for Harry Truman, but made famous by Dwight D. Eisenhower, this Lincoln featured a transparent “bubble top” so the president could remain visible in any weather.
It later served as a backup vehicle for John F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson, remaining in service until 1967 — one of the longest-serving presidential limousines ever made.
1961 Lincoln Continental
Perhaps the most famous presidential limousine, the 1961 Lincoln Continental carried John F. Kennedy in Dallas on November 22, 1963.
After his assassination, the vehicle was rebuilt with titanium armor, communication upgrades, and a fixed black roof — transforming a symbol of openness into a fortress of protection.
Lincoln Continental (Reagan Era)
This Lincoln served several presidents, from Richard Nixon to Ronald Reagan. On March 30, 1981, Reagan was shot while entering it — the car that rushed him to the hospital.
In 1982, the car received a facelift, humorously fitted with a grille from an older model due to sizing issues. A true survivor among U.S. presidential cars.
Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham — Bill Clinton’s Fortress
By the 1990s, security engineering had reached new heights. The Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham built for Bill Clinton was a masterpiece of protection and power.
With B6-level armor, three-inch bulletproof glass, and a 7.4-liter V8 tuned by Jack Roush, it combined the luxury of a Cadillac with the strength of an armored personnel carrier.
Run-Flat tires, an onboard oxygen system, and automatic fire suppression made it a rolling fortress for the modern presidency.
Cadillac DeVille and DTS — George W. Bush
During George W. Bush’s presidency, Cadillac produced two generations of state limousines.
The first, based loosely on the DeVille, hid a reinforced Escalade chassis capable of supporting over four tons. It featured five-inch armor, tear gas launchers, night vision, and built-in shotguns for emergency defense.
In 2005, Bush moved to a more advanced Cadillac DTS, which refined communications and safety systems while preserving the same uncompromising level of security.
Cadillac One — “The Beast”
The latest chapter in presidential car evolution is the Cadillac One, famously known as “The Beast.”
Despite its resemblance to a luxury Cadillac CT6, it’s actually built on the heavy-duty Chevrolet Kodiak truck platform.
Its armor can resist explosions, gunfire, and chemical threats. Inside, it functions as a mobile command center with encrypted communications, oxygen supply, medical gear, and even a blood reserve matching the president’s type.
“The Beast” debuted in 2018 during Donald Trump’s first term, later serving Joe Biden, and — fittingly — returned to Trump in 2025.
🇺🇸 A Legacy on Wheels
From Roosevelt’s carriage to the armored “Beast,” the cars of U.S. presidents tell a story of progress, power, and innovation.
Each generation of presidential limousines reflects not just engineering excellence, but also the nation’s evolving view of leadership, safety, and public presence.