MW introduces a new generation of protective vehicles in the luxury sedan segment.
The two models, developed on the basis of the new BMW 7 Series, successfully combine the concept of unrivaled protection with the outstanding levels of ride comfort and spaciousness, highly sophisticated equipment features and the unbeatable dynamic prowess that characterizes the brand. As the world's first protection sedan with an all-electric drive system, the BMW i7 Protection (aggregated power consumption in the WLTP cycle: 30.0 kWh/100 km, provisional figures) is a true pioneer. Driven by two powerful electric motors, it meets all requirements of protection class VR9 without any limitations, as does the new combustion engine BMW 7 Series Protection (combined fuel consumption in WLTP cycle: 14.6 l/100 km [19.3 mpg imp ]; CO2 emissions: 328 g/km, preliminary figures).
The integrated safety concept in the new BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection is taken into account in the development of the new BMW 7 Series range. It is centered on the new BMW Protection Core, which is unique worldwide and comprises a model-specific self-contained body structure made of armored steel. This is then combined with features such as additional protection for the underbody and roof as well as armored glass. Both models will be made at the BMW Group Dingolfing Factory through a complex “craft manufacturing” process. Both protective vehicles will make their public debut at the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, with deliveries to customers requiring special protection starting in December 2023.
This new protection model offers special protection from attacks by firearms or explosives for at-risk individuals. They have been classified as offering VR9 class protection based on the official internationally recognized testing criteria of the Vereinigung der Prüfstellen für Angriffshemmende Materialien und Konstruktionen (Association of Test Laboratories for Attack-Resistant Materials and Construction – abbreviated VPAM). This certification is based, among other things, on the third edition of the Bulletproof Vehicle (VPAM BRV) guidelines regarding ballistic resistance and the Explosive Resistant Vehicle guidelines (VPAM ERV, third edition) and PAS 300 regarding explosions. resistance. The glass for both models even protects against 7.62x54 R caliber ammunition — a threat of the highest civil resistance class VPAM 10. Extended partial protection is also available as an option for the new BMW 7 Series. Protection of certain body areas against shots from VPAM 10 ammunition.
The first all-electric model in the protection category and offered exclusively in Europe, the BMW i7 Protection shows how exceptional qualities in terms of safety levels, driving dynamics, ride comfort and interior comfort combine perfectly with a strict focus on sustainability. Its arrival means the BMW Group once again acts as a pioneer in the field of emission-free local mobility for individuals who require special protection. At the IAA Mobility 2021 exhibition, the company presented the BMW Concept iX5 Hydrogen Protection VR6, the first protective vehicle with a hydrogen-powered fuel cell drive system to be certified anywhere in the world. This shows the BMW Group's ability to produce sustainable solutions even in special vehicle segments by applying its exceptional development expertise.
The innovative protection concept features the unique BMW Protection Core.
The innovative protection concept for BMW's new protective sedan is the product of traditional know-how combined with cutting-edge technology. BMW has now accumulated 45 years of experience in the development and production of protective vehicles. The protection concept currently implemented was designed as part of the series production development process for the new BMW 7 Series and, more than ever, offers major advantages over coating existing vehicles at a later date.
This is largely due to the unique BMW Protection Core, for which for the first time the entire supporting structure of a protective sedan body is made of armored steel. The three-dimensionally engineered elements are all made from highly resistant, hot-formed steel alloys. The BMW Protection Core forms a self-contained protection cell, which is then integrated with special protective doors, underbody protection and safety glass.
Special shields designed to provide maximum protection against explosives in particular have been used on the roofs and underbody of the two sedans. This means that the occupants are also protected from drone attacks containing explosives, for example, and from shrapnel scattered by hand grenades when detonated.
Another standard safety feature of the BMW 7 Series Protection is the self-closing fuel tank, with a special casing that allows it to close after being hit by a bullet to prevent loss of fuel.
As part of the certification process, special protection elements must demonstrate their ability to withstand attack by undergoing rigorous procedures. In addition, experts from independent state testing agencies conducted firearms and explosives tests on the vehicles. The official inspection and certification of the vehicle as a whole has finally confirmed the comprehensive protection offered by the new holistic protection concept for vehicles from BMW.
Greater roominess, lower weight and greater agility combined with uncompromising protection for occupants.
The structural protection concept achieved with the pioneering BMW Protection Core provides the new BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection with an unparalleled set of characteristics. From the outside, there are only a few details that differentiate these two protection sedans from the regular 7 Series sedans with the M Sport package. Their discreet and inconspicuous appearance on public roads is an added safety factor for people who need protection.
The BMW Protection Core design principle has the added effect of increasing cabin space. Thanks to the fully integrated protection concept, the comfort levels of space and seating in the front and rear are hardly any different from those found in a conventional BMW 7 Series Sedan in all key criteria.
The innovative protection concept used in the new BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection also allows for more optimal weight compared to its predecessor models. It's not just the weight
