BMW unveils an armored electric vehicle for the Prime Minister

author: FutureCar Staff    

BMW has recently unveiled the i7 Protection, an armoured version of its fully electric sedan flagship. This vehicle is designed to provide both protection and luxury for dignitaries, presidents, and potentially local ministers. The armoured i7 offers bullet and bomb-proof resilience, making it a highly secure option. While it remains uncertain if the vehicle will be included in the local Government fleet, New Zealand already has an armoured Seven in the Crown fleet.

The armoured Seven in the Crown fleet is believed to be a petrol V12, purchased over two decades ago. It is primarily used when New Zealand hosts visiting international high-ups who require a high level of security. The Crown's current VIP cars are expected to be due for renewal, but the whole process is shrouded in secrecy. Previous Government BMW fleet contracts have focused on runout versions of luxury limousines, but the shift towards favoring electric vehicles has changed this policy.

The BMW i7 Protection is the first armoured electric sedan offered by a car manufacturer. It is an alternative to a petrol, 760Li grade model that also meets the same protective specifications. Both models are certified to VR9 protection standards, providing security against various levels of gunfire and explosive devices. The appearance of these vehicles is similar to regular variants, making them more discreet than post-production converted protection vehicles.

The i7 Protection features a newly engineered Protection Core, with the entire supporting structure built from armoured steel. This creates a self-supporting protective cell, combined with protection-spec doors, underbody and roof armouring, and safety glass. Occupants can expect protection from explosives underneath the car and even from drone attacks. Specially developed PAX run flat tires from Michelin allow the cars to continue driving when fully deflated.

Custom options are available for the i7 Protection, including a fresh-air supply system, fire extinguishing system, flashing lights, radio transceivers, and flag poles. The weights of the vehicles have not been disclosed, but upgrades may add as much as a tonne to the standard weight of 2.7 tonnes. The i7 Protection has the same dual-motor setup as the showroom i7 M70 xDrive, producing up to 400kW and 745Nm. However, the extra weight affects performance, resulting in a slower 0-100kmh time compared to the regular version.

BMW offers specialized driver training courses for chauffeurs of Protection vehicles and provides worldwide service and support specific to these vehicles through a global network of experts.

FutureCar Staff