BMW unveils Concept 7 Protection, a lower-tier armoured 7 Series
Shown in Munich, the concept sits below BMW's existing X5 Protection VR6 and 7 Series Protection models, offering discreet, handgun-level security built on the plug-in hybrid M760e xDrive drivetrain.
BMW Group has unveiled the BMW Concept 7 Protection, a new concept for special protection in the luxury sedan segment based on the 7 Series Sedan, in Munich.
The vehicle sits below the BMW 7 Series Protection (protection level VR9, with VPAM 10 available as an option) and the BMW X5 Protection VR6, expanding a range that also includes locally produced vehicles with lower protection levels.
BMW says the Concept 7 Protection complies with the new BayB standard and is designed to protect against selected, particularly common handgun ammunition such as 9x19mm and .44 Magnum. It does not offer blast protection, which BMW says requires an extended scope delivered by vehicles with a higher protection level.
That protection is built around bulletproof glass substantially thicker than the comparable series vehicle, ballistic steel and fibre-reinforced composite elements integrated into the doors, reinforced rear triangular windows, and an additional steel and composite layer beneath the panoramic glass sunroof that seals the upper passenger compartment while preserving the production car's exterior appearance; as a result, the sunroof's sunblind remains permanently closed. BMW adds that bulkhead and rear wall protection is fully integrated into the vehicle.
Protection features also include an intercom system that lets occupants communicate with people outside the car while doors and windows stay closed, using exterior and interior microphones and loudspeakers, supplemented by an attack alarm system that triggers visual and audible alerts.
The concept is based on the drivetrain of the BMW M760e xDrive, whose plug-in hybrid system combines a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive, for a combined output of 450 kW/612 hp and 800 Nm of torque, according to BMW.
BMW is also showing, for the first time, a BMW Individual rear console with a foldable table, wireless charging and a cool box, which the company says will be available on BMW 7 Series vehicles from the second half of 2027.
BMW says its initial focus for the Concept 7 Protection is on selected European markets.
Sources
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