Obama to Ride American in New Inaugural Limo

President-elect Obama may provide a bit more support to General Motors beyond extending financial assistance for the troubled automaker.

The president-elect will employ the services of a brand new GM-produced presidential vehicle on inauguration day, an armored Cadillac limousine, the Detroit News reported Tuesday.

The 2009 Cadillac Presidential Limousine will replace the 2006 model used by President Bush, and includes five-inch thick armor, bulletproof windows (which are reportedly larger on the new model), a sealed interior to prevent chemical attacks, and luxury amenities such as a communications system and a CD player.

The News reported that likely fewer than 25 of the new limos will be produced, and that some of the 2006 limos will remain in the protective services.

“This is an assignment we really treasure,” GM spokesman David Caldwell said. “We’re honored again to be associated with the U.S. presidency.”

GM is the parent company of Cadillac, which has produced the bulk of presidential limos since 1983.