BMW unveils new armored electric vehicle for Prime Minister

author: FutureCar Staff    

The BMW i7 Protection, an armoured version of the fully electric sedan flagship, has been unveiled by BMW. This vehicle is designed to provide both protection and low-emissions luxury, making it ideal for dignitaries, presidents, and local ministers. The armoured i7 offers bullet and bomb-proof resilience, making it a secure option for high-profile individuals. It remains to be seen whether the vehicle will be included in the local Government fleet.

New Zealand already has an armoured Seven in the Crown fleet, which is thought to be a petrol V12 model. However, the fleet is due for renewal, and the armoured i7 Protection could be a potential replacement. The vehicle features bullet-proof glass, protection-spec doors, and armoured steel construction. It is primarily used when New Zealand hosts visiting international high-ups who require a high level of security.

Previous Government BMW fleet contracts have favored runout versions of luxury limousines, but the shift towards electric vehicles has changed this policy. The BMW i7 Protection is the first armoured electric sedan offered by a car manufacturer. It is certified to VR9 protection standards, providing security against gunfire and explosive devices. The appearance of the vehicle is similar to regular variants, making it 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. It also includes protection-spec doors, armouring for the underbody and roof, and safety glass. Occupants can expect protection from explosives underneath the car and drone attacks. Specially developed PAX run flat tires from Michelin allow the vehicle to continue driving when fully deflated.

The i7 Protection comes with various custom options, such as a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguishing system, flashing lights, radio transceivers, and flag poles. The weight of the vehicle has not been disclosed, but it is expected to add as much as a tonne to the standard i7, which weighs 2.7 tonnes. The performance of the i7 Protection is slightly dulled due to the extra weight, with a 0-100kmh time of nine seconds.

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

FutureCar Staff