BMW's Hidden Shelter / Bulletproof 7 Series Unveiled
BMW has unveiled its '7 Series Protection' concept, presenting a clever way to conceal armor plating inside a luxury ceremonial sedan.
Amirmasoud Abedin: By introducing the new concept "Series 7 Protection" (Concept 7 Protection), BMW presented a smart idea to hide a resistant armor in the form of a luxury and everyday sedan. This car, developed on the basis of the new generation of the 7 series, unlike the diplomatic heavyweight ceremonial cars, is designed to deal with everyday urban dangers such as kidnapping, extortion and armed robberies.
BMW's approach in creating this concept is to maintain the appearance of a normal and luxury car on the streets. The Concept Series 7 Protection is not intended to replace the super-heavy factory bulletproof versions (such as the i7 Protection), but is designed as a more agile and lighter option for executives, celebrities and private buyers who want to benefit from high safety in urban traffic without attracting attention and maintaining the comfort of the ride.
Hidden armor under the shell of a luxury sedan
According to the motor1 report, the 7 Protection series concept has been developed based on the powerful M760e xDrive model. The plug-in hybrid engine of this car, which consists of a 6-cylinder 3-liter linear engine and an electric motor, produces a total of 603 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque; The extraordinary power that allows this armored sedan to have the stability and acceleration of standard versions without feeling heavy.
Thick bullet-proof glass and ballistic steel plates are completely hidden in the doors and body, and fiber-reinforced composites cover other sensitive areas. BMW emphasizes that these equipments have not made any changes in the proportions of the body and dimensions of the cabin.
Also, an intercom system (external voice communication) is installed in the car so that passengers can talk to people outside the car without having to lower the windows or open the doors.
BayB safety standard; Special armor against waist weapons
BMW has engineered this concept based on the new BayB standard for civilian urban vehicles. In this standard, the focus is on countering common urban threats and small arms. The body of this car is completely resistant to 9 mm calibers and even heavy 44 magnum bullets (which are usually used in armed robberies and kidnappings).
This feature distinguishes the concept from the heavier models of the Protection 7 and i7 series, which have VR9 and VPAM 10 military ballistic certifications (resistant to vests and combat rifles and blasts). The purpose of this car is to provide security against unexpected everyday scenarios such as being forced in traffic or ambushing in front of the house.
Concept 7 Series Protection draws a new horizon in BMW's safe product portfolio; A route for private and corporate buyers who are looking for factory-guaranteed safety but don't want the heavy, rugged, and distinctive look of diplomatic cars. Although BMW has not yet confirmed the official release date and price of this model, the positive feedback from this design could soon open its foot to the production line.