BMW Unveils Armoured Versions of 7 Series and Electric i7

BMW has recently introduced armoured versions of its flagship saloon, the BMW 7 Series, as well as the electric BMW i7. These new models feature enhanced protection, including protective glass, a reinforced chassis, and bodywork capable of withstanding explosive attacks.

The BMW 7 Series Protection is the first armoured edition of the current generation 7 Series. It boasts an armoured steel body, known as the BMW Protection Core, which strengthens the doors, underbody, and roof. This provides maximum protection against explosives, bullets, drone attacks, and hand grenades. Additionally, the car is equipped with protective glass rated VPAM 10, the highest level of protection for civilian vehicles.

With a VR9 rating, the 7 Series Protection can withstand ballistic attacks from weapons traveling at speeds of up to 820 meters per second. It also offers PAS 300 blast resistance and features a self-sealing fuel tank to prevent fuel loss in the event of an attack.

The BMW i7 Protection shares similar protective features with the 7 Series Protection. It also has an armoured steel body and VPAM 10-rated protective glass. However, due to the added weight of the protective bodywork, the performance of both cars is slightly reduced.

The BMW i7 Protection is powered by two electric motors, delivering 536bhp and 549lb ft of torque. While the standard i7 can achieve a 0-62mph sprint in 4.7 seconds, the i7 Protection takes 9.0 seconds to reach the same speed. Its top speed is limited to 99mph.

On the other hand, the 7 Series Protection is equipped with a 4.4-litre V8 mild-hybrid petrol engine, producing 522bhp and 553lb ft of torque. Its 0-62mph sprint time drops from 6.6 seconds to 4.2 seconds, with a top speed limited to 130mph.

Both the BMW 7 Series Protection and i7 Protection feature specifically developed PAX 20-inch light-alloy wheels with run-flat capabilities, allowing the vehicles to be driven at speeds of up to 50mph even with deflated tires.

In terms of design, both models are based on the M Sport variant of their respective base models. They feature a discreet black exterior paint, but are equipped with blue police lights on the roof and inside the rear windscreen.

BMW has a long history of producing armoured vehicles, dating back to 1978 with the introduction of the BMW 7 Series Security Vehicle. Since then, two more generations of the 7 Series have served as protection vehicles, along with the introduction of the BMW X5 Security in 2004. These armoured models have been a consistent part of BMW’s lineup.

The BMW 7 Series Protection and i7 Protection will be manufactured at BMW’s Dingolfing plant in Germany. They will make their public debut at the Munich motor show next month and deliveries are expected to begin in December.

With the introduction of these armoured versions, BMW continues to prioritize safety and security for its customers. The enhanced protection features, combined with the luxury and performance of the 7 Series and i7 models, make these vehicles an attractive option for individuals seeking both comfort and security. Whether it’s protection against ballistic attacks or explosive threats, BMW’s armoured vehicles provide peace of mind without compromising on style or performance.