BMW Unveils Innovative Luxury Protection Vehicles: i7 Electric & 7 Series
BMW has unveiled a groundbreaking generation of luxury protection vehicles, a symphony of innovation in both form and security. Drawing inspiration from the esteemed BMW 7 Series, these models effortlessly fuse cutting-edge protective prowess with an opulent embrace of comfort, space, advanced technology, and the celebrated dynamic finesse intrinsic to the brand.
Front and centre, the pioneering BMW i7 Protection emerges as a revolutionary masterpiece, boldly ushering in the era of all-electric protection saloons, a paradigm shift in security standards. In a harmonious dance, it meets the stringent VR9 protection requirements without any concessions, boasting awe-inspiring electric power efficiency statistics (WLTP cycle: 30.0 kWh/100 km, provisional data for the German market). Meanwhile, its internal combustion sibling, the BMW 7 Series Protection, astounds with its performance while dutifully adhering to the VR9 protection class (fuel consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 18.1 mpg; CO2 emissions: 355 g/km, provisional statistics for the German market).
Crafted as bastions against firearms and explosives, these sentinel vehicles proudly bear the VR9 protection classification, aligning with the globally recognised standards set forth by Germany's Vereinigung der Prüfstellen für Angriffshemmende Materialien und Konstruktionen (Association of Test Laboratories for Attack-Resistant Materials and Constructions – VPAM). Their certification pays homage to the rigorous Bullet Resistant Vehicles (BRV 2009), Explosive Resistant Vehicles (ERV 2010), and PAS 300 for blast resistance guidelines. Elevating the protective veil further, the glass in these models attains the prestigious VPAM 10 classification, signifying the pinnacle of security for civilian protection vehicles. Moreover, the BMW 7 Series Protection extends the hand of protection even further with an optional upgrade to achieve VPAM 10 protection.
Crafted with surgical precision at the hallowed halls of the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection are poised to grace the world's stage at the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, promising to commence their journey to safeguarding lives in December 2023.
At the heart of these guardian vehicles lies an ingeniously integrated protection concept centred around the BMW Protection Core. This architectural marvel comprises a body forged entirely from armour steel, fashioning a self-sustaining sanctuary. Protective-specific doors, armoured underbelly, impenetrable roof, and safety glass stand as sentinels within this core.
These vehicles' celestial protection cocoons embody a waterproof shield against explosive threats, warding off drone assaults and grenade shrapnel. The BMW 7 Series Protection further ensures resilience with its self-sealing fuel tank, a guardian angel against fuel loss in the face of ballistic strikes.
This singular BMW Protection Core enhances safety; it begets a discreet exterior, mirroring the elegance of a conventional BMW 7 Series Saloon M Sport, an invaluable attribute for those needing protection. Inside, spaciousness and seating comfort rival the standard BMW 7 Series Saloon, affirming that security need not compromise luxury.
Balanced on the scales of precision and rigidity, these protectors, thanks to the BMW Protection Core, retain exceptional handling and dynamic prowess. They stand resolute, unwavering in adversity, upholding the illustrious BMW tradition of agility and responsiveness, even amidst challenging encounters.
In the grand overture of protection, the BMW i7 Protection orchestrates an epoch-defining note, introducing electric mobility to the hallowed halls of protection. Its dual electric motors at both front and rear axles compose an electrifying symphony, delivering a system output of 400 kW/544 hp and an imposing torque of 745 Nm (549 lb-ft).
This revolutionary powertrain ensures lightning-fast power delivery, judicious power distribution, and a seamless fusion of powertrain and chassis systems, unfurling a tapestry of unrivalled traction, unwavering stability, and unmatched dynamic performance. It sprints from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 9.0 seconds while maintaining a top speed electronically tethered to 99 mph.
In the BMW 7 Series Protection's petrol variant, a 4.4-litre V8 engine reigns supreme, boasting an impressive output of 390 kW/530 hp and a peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft). Infused with the magic of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, including an enhanced turbocharging system complete with an electrically operated blow-off valve and indirect charge air cooling, and further bolstered by a cross-bank exhaust manifold, the engine ascends to new heights courtesy of its 48V mild hybrid technology.
Guided by the cunning BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, power distribution flows seamlessly to all four corners as the situation demands. It catapults from 0 to 62 mph in a brisk 6.6 seconds, charging towards a top speed of 130 mph, marrying unwavering protection with peerless dynamics.
These new guardian vehicles bear chassis technology meticulously tailored to accommodate the added weight of their formidable protective features. The result? Exceptional ride comfort for those in the rear, even under the most challenging circumstances. Precision in handling remains undisturbed, even in the heart-pounding scenarios of evading danger.
In a masterful display of innovation, the BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection emerge as pioneers in their class, the first and sole protectors to embrace Integral Active Steering. This rear-wheel steering marvel artfully shrinks the turning circle during tight manoeuvres. It enhances precision and dynamic grace during high-speed turns, a standard feature that elevates the comfort of rear-seat passengers.
The 20-inch light-alloy wheels, a standard fixture, are a testament to engineering excellence, elevating ride comfort, traction, and directional stability to loftier heights. They come wrapped in specially crafted PAX tires from Michelin (dimensions 255-740 R510) featuring a run-flat ring. This lifeline allows the vehicle to continue its journey at up to 50 mph, even in the dire event of complete tire pressure loss.
The BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection don an impressive arsenal of driver assistance systems. These guardian angels, primarily conferring information and alerts to seasoned chauffeurs, refrain from wresting control from their human counterparts. A phalanx of advanced sensors and cameras, kin to the broader BMW 7 Series family, has been seamlessly integrated into these protective fortresses, offering an unerring vista of the surrounding environment.
In the frigid embrace of low ambient temperatures, an electric heating function bestows warmth upon the windshield and the frontal expanse of the side windows. For the discerning, model-specific pre-heating is but a desirable option. The motorised assistance for opening and closing doors, a standard amenity, ushers in a new level of convenience.
A chilled box nestled between the rear seats ensures beverages remain gloriously relaxed. Meanwhile, the standard Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System elevates the auditory experience, enchanting with its premium sonic tapestry.
The integrated protection concept and the meticulous craftsmanship at the BMW Group Plant Dinging offer a symphony of possibilities for customising both the exterior and interior. Optional BMW crystal headlights and iconic Glow add a touch of luminous elegance to the standard illuminated BMW kidney.
Iconic Glow. A kaleidoscope of body colours from the new BMW 7 Series range offers a palette of individual expression. Customers revel in the embrace of multifunction seats, BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery with seat heating and ventilation, and the indulgence of an optional massage function—a cornucopia of optional seat and interior surfaces beckon, inviting personalisation.
Equipped with the latest BMW iDrive generation, founded upon the bedrock of BMW Operating System 8.5 and graced with the BMW Curved Display, the BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection unfold an intuitive tapestry of user experience. BMW iDrive, the maestro, orchestrates the symphony of security functions, all at the fingertips through the touchscreen prowess of the control display.
An optional camera-based additional interior mirror projects the feed from the Reversing Assist Camera onto the control display, an augmentation of vision that enhances safety. An omnipresent intercom system, standard in its generosity, enables effective communication with the world outside the vehicle without cracking open a window or door.
The new BMW protection saloons furnish standard and optional equipment tailored to various potential attack scenarios. With bespoke options, including a fresh-air supply system, fire extinguishing apparatus, flashing lights, radio transceivers, and flag poles, the BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection stand as beacons of comprehensive security solutions.
