WASHINGTON – The first Cadillac to be adorned with the division’s new wreath-and-crest emblem has been delivered to the White House for it’s first official duties in the Presidential inaugural parade which took place on January 20th 2001.
The new limousine looks similar to the 2001 DeVille, it is in fact unique. In the interest of national security, Bush’s car is equipped with state-of-the-art protection and communication systems including a night vision system. The Cadillac also boasts a premium sound system with a 10-disc CD changer for the back seat passengers!
Handcrafted with a black clearcoat finish, the president’s new Caddy is considerably longer, wider and taller than the production models. To maintain national security, it’s equipped with state-of-the-art protection and communication systems including Cadillac’s Night Vision infrared object detection system.
The interior boasts seven-passenger seating with improved comfort and visibility for all occupants finished with wood accents and rich blue leather and cloth.
A rear seat ‘executive package’ featuring a concealed, foldaway desktop can be deployed when conducting affairs of state. The rear seats have an adjustable reclining feature and adaptive seat system for added comfort.
Rear seat passengers have their own premium sound system with a 10-disc CD changer.
Presidential seals are positioned in the centre of the rear seat back panel, on each rear door trim panel and the exterior of each rear door.
The U.S. flag is placed on the right front fender, and the presidential standard is located on the left front fender. Flush-mounted spotlights located in the fenders illuminate the flags at night.
Cadillac General Manager Michael J. O’Malley said: “Just as Air Force One is a flying Oval Office, this new Cadillac provides the same amenities for our nation’s leader while travelling on the ground.”
First Lady’s Diamonds
Laura Bush wouldn’t think of making her White House debut this weekend without her diamonds. The three stone diamond necklace that the new First Lady will be wearing to some of the inaugural festivities was created for her by Dallas jewelry designer Sue Gragg who used three diamonds to symbolize “the past, present and future” for Mrs. Bush.
Laura Bush worked closely with Sue Gragg, her jeweler, and Michael Faircloth, her couturier, to design her entire inaugural wardrobe, including all her jewelry. The three stone diamond necklace was designed to coordinate with all of the ensembles designed by Mr. Faircloth for Mrs. Bush and is versatile enough to wear both day and evening.
The necklace, whose total carat weight is 5 carats, features the new “Leo” diamond with 66 symmetrical facets and fits closely around the neck and is made with links and bridges in 18 kt yellow and 18 kt white gold. The total weight of the diamonds is 5 carats. Mrs. Bush will add a pair of “Leo” diamond stud earrings, 1.5 carats each, to complete her look.
