The next US Consul General is set to get a new James Bond-style armour-plated car, The Royal Gazette can reveal.

The maximum security vehicle -- specially altered to combat terrorist threats -- is expected to replace the current standard Chevrolet in the next few months.

The US authorities on the Island declined to comment on specific security arrangements.

But -- based on similar vehicles used to transport VIPs -- the new car will have bullet-proof glass and body panel inserts and special `run flat' tyres.

The Island's distinctive driving conditions, however, are understood to have been taken into consideration as the US State Department tightens security for all its overseas staff in the wake of terrorist bombings against diplomatic missions in Africa.

Acting US Consul General Bruce Berton said: "It won't be fully armoured -- it will take account of Bermuda's unique conditions.

"We have told them what the conditions are and they will try to accommodate us, given the security requirements.'' Mr. Berton added: "This is just part of a worldwide effort to improve security.'' He declined to comment on whether the State Department was over-reacting in Bermuda's case by providing an armoured car.

Mr. Berton said: "It's hard for me to make that determination. Bermuda's not a high-threat post, but they have determined there will be at least minimum standards at all posts and that's what we have to abide by.'' The new car -- a luxury Ford Crown Victoria powered by a huge 4.6 litre V8 engine -- will replace the four-year-old standard Chevrolet Lumina which has been the US Consul General's transport for nearly four years.

Outgoing US Consul General Robert Farmer -- who officially quits his post today -- said the African embassies bombed last year were not regarded as hotspots.

He said: "All Ambassadors and Consul Generals are a symbol of the United States and the State Department has made a decision that people in these positions will have enhanced security after what happened.'' Mr. Farmer admitted: "It's unfortunate -- but it's a fact of life.'' Mr. Farmer is set to be replaced by wealthy lawyer and businessman Larry Owen, from Michigan, a major fundraiser for the Clinton presidential campaign.

It is understood the appointment will be officially announced within the next few weeks.

The US authorities might be getting a new car but they are not yet sure where the new car will be parked -- as the official residence Chelston is up for sale.

Mr. Berton said around nine serious inquiries had been made since the house, set in 14 acres with a private beach, was put on the market.

He added: "There is some interest -- but no-one has said `we have to have it'.'' And he said the US government was still looking for a more modest replacement for the Chelston mansion, home to successive US Consuls since the 1960s.

Mr. Berton said: "Even if we did find something, I don't know if we could move forward at this stage as we still have to sell Chelston.'' TANK YOU VERY MUCH! -- A Ford Crown Victoria like the armour-plated version to be delivered to the new US Consul General.