BMW unveils new electric cars capable of withstanding gunfire and grenade attacks
The i7 Protection can withstand gunfire and drone attacks
BMW
BMW have unveiled its first-ever i7 Protection and 7 Series Protection models, capable of withstanding gunfire and even attacks from hand grenades.
Utilising the base model of the award-winning BMW 7 series, two new models will form the basis of an “unrivalled protection concept”.
The BMW i7 Protection is the world’s first-ever protection saloon with an all-electric drive system, being described as a “genuine trailblazer”.
The vehicles are being offered for “at-risk individuals” to provide customised protection from attacks with firearms and explosives.
The vehicles come equipped with many safety features
BMW
All classifications have been approved by Germany’s Association of Test Laboratories for Attack-Resistant Materials and Constructions (VPAM).
The glass for the two models meets VPAM 10 classification, the highest level of protection for civilian vehicles.
Both the i7 Protection and the 7 Series Protection are constructed with armoured armour steel, utilising BMW’s new Protection Core technology.
This forms a self-supporting protective cell, combined with heavy-duty doors, as well as armouring for the underbody and roof.
The special armour for the roof and underbody has been designed to offer “maximum protection against explosives in particular”.
Any occupants in the vehicle would be protected from drone attacks with explosive charges and from fragments dispersed by hand grenades.
Owners of either Protection vehicle will also benefit from a self-sealing fuel tank as standard.
In the event that the vehicle is hit with gunfire, the tank’s casing will automatically close, thus preventing the loss of fuel from the impact of the bullet.
The tyres are supplied by Michelin and can allow the car to continue its journey at up to 50mph even if they lose all pressure.
In addition to the safety features, the vehicles are stocked with entertainment features, including screens available for the back seats, Bowers and Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System and an integrated cool box.
According to the company, its fuel consumption has been recorded at 18.1 mpg, while it releases an enormous 355g/km of carbon dioxide.
The BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection will be manufactured at the company’s Dingolfing Plant in Bavaria, with deliveries commencing in December 2023.
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The car is marketed for "at-risk individuals"
BMW
The two protection models are set to make their public debut at the IAA Mobility 2023 motor show in Munich in September.