Prime Minister Narendra Modi, setting aside his usual Range Rover, personally accompanied Russian President Vladimir Putin in a white Toyota Fortuner for the drive from Palam Airport to the Prime Minister’s residence on Thursday. The vehicle, registered MH01EN5795, attracted attention after images revealed the exact model and configuration used in the high-security movement.
Fortuner Details and Fleet Information
According to registration records, the car is a Toyota Fortuner Sigma 4 MT, classified as a motor car under Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms and running on diesel. It was registered on 24 April 2024, making it 1 year and 7 months old, with a fitness certificate valid until 23 April 2039 and a PUCC certificate valid until 25 June 2026.
Officials note that such vehicles are part of a recently updated VIP fleet, maintained to meet safety, emission, and operational standards for high-profile movements.
Why a White Fortuner?
Security agencies often deploy white Fortuners for VIP road movement because the model is widely used in government fleets, blends into convoys, and offers high stability and ground clearance. The uniform colour and standard appearance allow the car to maintain a low profile while ensuring safety.
The images circulating online also showed an alert about the expiry of the vehicle’s “own damage” policy, which is routine automated information, not linked to the VIP movement.
Security Protocols
While the convoy usually includes armoured vehicles, support cars such as Fortuners and Innovas are added for operational flexibility. The Fortuner’s regular registration plate drew attention because VIP movements are typically masked behind special plates or unmarked vehicles.
Officials did not comment on why a Maharashtra-registered Fortuner was used, but security agencies often maintain fleets across multiple states for high-profile visits. Putin’s two-day visit triggered full security protocols in Delhi, including traffic curbs, route sanitisation, and clear passage arrangements between venues.
Prime Minister Modi personally welcomed President Putin, highlighting the long-standing friendship between the two leaders. The Fortuner’s use in the convoy, while a minor detail, underscores the practicality and consistency of India’s VIP fleet standards.