Picture Car Glossary
Action vehicle
What is an action vehicle?
Updated June 2026 · Revolution Picture Cars
Also called driving vehicle.
An action vehicle is a picture car used for on-camera driving or stunts.
It typically features safety cages, reinforced chassis, upgraded brake systems, fire suppression, and four-point racing harnesses to protect performers and crew during high-speed or high-risk sequences. Action vehicles are coordinated by the stunt department and must comply with production safety bulletins.
Example
A chase sequence uses three identical sedans: one hero for close-ups, one action vehicle caged and harnessed for the driving, and one shell for the impact. Only the action vehicle carries the safety build, and only it is driven by a stunt driver.
Figures are illustrative, chosen to show the mechanics rather than to quote market rates.
Where you'll see it
Specified on the picture car breakdown sheet and signed off by the stunt coordinator.
Common mistake
Using the hero car for the driving work because it is already on set. The action vehicle carries the cage, harnesses, and cutoffs, and the hero car carries none of them.
Related questions
- What is the difference between an action vehicle and a hero car?
- A hero car is kept camera-perfect for close-ups. An action vehicle is built for on-camera driving and stunts, with safety equipment the hero car does not have.
- Who is allowed to drive an action vehicle?
- A stunt driver, cleared by the stunt coordinator. It is not a vehicle a wrangler or a performer moves between setups.
Official sources
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