Purchasing an armored vehicle involves assessment of the threat, the technology and the manufacturers. A threat assessment will determine what kind of attackers might pursue individuals in the armored car and what sorts of weapons they are likely to use. Technology assessment involves considering: what type of armor is required (e.g., transparent, fibrous, alloy, ceramic, compost) and how heavily the vehicle should be armored; and other protective equipment such as air scrubbers, self-sealing, nonexplosive fuel tanks, remote starters with bomb scans, ram bumpers, deadbolt locks, fire-suppression systems, and special tires. When evaluating vehicle manufacturers, perhaps the most important question is whether the company's vehicles and armoring systems have been independently tested to validate quality and integrity. Also important is whether the manufacturer can provide timely worldwide service, either by itself or through arrangements with local providers.