BMW unveils armoured Concept 7 Protection with 603 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain
Based on the 7 Series, the armoured luxury sedan is built to the new BayB standard to resist rounds from select pistols.
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Luxury cars are now offering security and strong performance together. BMW has unveiled its new armoured luxury sedan, the Concept 7 Protection. The car is based on the BMW 7 Series and is built to protect against rounds from select pistols. From the outside it looks like an ordinary luxury sedan, but the body and cabin have undergone major safety changes.
The company has built the car to the new BayB security standard, which focuses on protection against rounds from select 9x19 mm and .44 Magnum pistols. The doors use strong steel and fibre-reinforced composite material, and the windows are fitted with thick ballistic glass. The joints between doors, glass and body panels have also been given extra protection. There are strong safety layers beneath the roof and in the rear cabin wall as well.
On power, the armoured car carries the plug-in hybrid powertrain of the BMW M760e xDrive. Its 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine produces 420 hp, while the electric motor generates 194 hp. Combined output is 603 hp with 800 Nm of torque. An 8-speed automatic gearbox and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system send power to all four wheels. Given the added weight of the armour, the suspension and brakes have also been modified.
The cabin has high-tech security features too. An intercom system allows occupants to speak to people outside without opening the doors or windows. There is also an attack alarm system that gives visual and audio alerts in the event of a possible attack. For safety, the extent to which the side windows can be opened is limited. Luxury features inside include Merino leather, Alcantara trim, a digital interior mirror and electronic sunblinds.
Rear passengers have options such as a foldable table, a wireless charging tray and an integrated cool box. BMW has tried to balance luxury and security through the concept. The concept is currently under consideration for select European markets. The company has given no information on a launch, price or sales in India.
