You don’t see armored stretch limousines everyday, unless you watch a lot of music videos—or if you live on the southwest coast of Florida where Clean Ride Limo builds and runs a unique fleet of stretch limos. The armored limousine now listed on eBay might be the most unique in Clean Ride’s fleet.
“We bought the truck five year ago from a guy who was having it built in Texas,” said Bob Calvert, the company’s owner. “The original builder went out of business. We completely rebuilt it, changing the windows, the stainless steel exterior, and the interior.”
The interior features granite tile and carpet floors, with carbon fiber accents, and neon lighting throughout, along with an oversized ice bar. Exterior steps extend automatically when the door is opened.
The 10,000-watt audio system is comprised of JBL audio components with five amps, eight 6×9-inch speakers and four 12-inch speakers. The main 60-inch plasma screen television is augmented by half a dozen smaller flat screens. The system can simultaneously display multiple video sources, including DirecTV satellite and Sony PlayStation. Guests can watch a movie on the big screen and sports on the smaller screens while listening to music streaming from an iPod. There are multiple USB ports and 110-volt wall plugs throughout the limo.
All the windows are bullet proof and limo-tinted. The truck is fitted with an International diesel engine and heavy-duty transmission. There are three rooftop air conditioning units, along with a 18,000-watt backup generator.
The armored limousine played a cameo role in many music videos and hosted a boatload of celebrities. Rumor has it that Kim Kardashian has been on board and that Dennis Rodman has driven the limo. It’s made countless trips across the Florida Everglades to Miami.
Clean Ride Limo’s diverse stretch fleet includes a Dodge Challenger, a Range Rover, a Bentley, and a Hummer all with jet doors. Bachelorette parties are especially fond of the company’s pink Bentley and Hummer.
In addition to the limo service, Calvert also owns Clean Ride Auto Repair and Upholstery. He’s keen on the company’s in-house capabilities. “We do everything from simple jobs like water pumps or brakes, to complete engine overhauls, everything from a headliner or seat repair all the way to a complete crazy interior built out of fiberglass and leather.” The shop builds a lot of limos these days. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter conversions have become a specialty.
Calvert grew up in the business and his life in the trade inspires confidence. His grandfather and uncles ran body shops. “We’re not afraid to cut it, stretch it, fiberglass it, raise it, drop it, and paint it. If you can dream it, we can build it,” he said. “I put in a hundred hours a week for the past 25 years, but I have never been to work one day.”
