I'll set the scene for you: You get out of the airport and try to hail a cab to the hotel, but what finally turns up is something that does not closely resemble a taxi. What turns up instead makes you wonder if it is ferrying you to a hotel or to a military base.
That pretty much sums up what lies ahead for tourists visiting Russia, as they will have the chance to hitch a ride in an armored reconnaissance vehicle. Yes, you read that right; a military grade vehicle is now being used as a taxi. The BRDM APC (Combat Command and Reconnaissance Vehicle) has served its tenure in the military and was recently granted a taxi permit in Saint Petersburg after an initial refusal.
Permission was granted only after the camo pattern was removed; the car now sports a red paint instead of the usual yellow. The combat vehicle weighs a massive 7,900Kg and can't be used on certain streets in the historical center of Russia's second largest city. Just so you know, a ride in it will cost 5,000 rubles or around Rs. 5500.
Besides being armoured, it's also amphibious and can travel on virtually any type of terrain. Inside, it gets electric windows and leather. Fun fact: the passengers are protected by 14mm thick armour. Russia is truly giving 'safe travel' a whole new meaning.
(Source: RUPTLY)
