Do Owners of Hypercars Have Highly Secure Garages?
Introduction
The purchase of a hypercar such as the McLaren P1 can be a symbol of success and wealth. Many luxury car buyers invest in securing their prized possession, but the extent of this security can vary greatly. Despite the significant investment in these ultra-luxury vehicles, the question remains: do owners of hypercars have highly secure garages?
Common Security Measures for Hypercar Garages
For many wealthy individuals who own expensive cars, having a secure garage is a necessity. A hypercar like a McLaren P1, which can cost upwards of $100,000, is often parked in a carefully constructed and highly secure garage. These garages can be either built underground or above ground, with varying levels of security depending on the owner's financial means.
Some wealthy owners opt for custom-built garages with advanced security features such as state-of-the-art alarm systems, closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, and even armed guards. Others choose standard-sized garages with reinforced doors, concrete walls, and sophisticated security systems to protect their investments.
Varied Security Methods
However, not all luxury car owners have the same level of security for their garages. While some are meticulous about ensuring the safety of their vehicles, others take a more relaxed approach. Some owners even rent airplane hangars, which offer less stringent security measures, but still provide ample protection.
Regular Garages with Minimal Security
Many hypercar owners have regular garages that are three times larger than standard garages, but the security measures may be the same as those found in an ordinary garage. Some owners prefer not to invest in advanced security systems and instead rely on simple lock mechanisms to secure their precious vehicles.
Aircraft Hangars and Secure Buildings
Other owners opt for more secure options. For example, some rent large airplane hangars at small airports, which typically offer basic security features but are still well protected. Some owners, fortunate enough to have a significant collection, invest in massive, purpose-built storage facilities equipped with advanced security systems and alarm systems.
Security Measures and Insurance Requirements
While having a secure garage is considered a standard practice for hypercar owners, it is not always mandatory. Insurance companies usually mandate certain security measures, such as alarm systems and camera surveillance, unless the owner is so wealthy that they can afford to leave their car unsecured and claim a non-custodial loss.
A personal example can illustrate this point: I was fortunate to work with some wealthy individuals who had highly valuable cars. One garage that we protected was a converted 100,000 square foot steel mill. The walls were made of concrete, and the skylights were located 90 feet above the main floor. The overhead doors were made of steel, and the tracks were also protected with reinforced steel that could only be destroyed by a cement truck.
Additionally, the garage was secured by a 120-pound Rhodesian Ridgeback named Binkie, who was known to be cranky if awoken. Binkie was accompanied by an armed live-in guard, and this setup proved to be highly effective, as there were never any security breaches in the space during the 1990s.
Conclusion
While not all hypercar owners invest in highly secure garages, the majority do take steps to protect their valuable investments. Whether it is through custom-built facilities, regular garages with advanced security systems, or even aircraft hangars, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of these premiere vehicles.
As technology advances, so too do the methods of protecting these costly possessions. The level of security can vary depending on the owner's financial status and personal preference, but the importance of safeguarding these prized possessions is clear.