The i7 Protection is quite simply the first 100% electric armored sedan on the market. A micromarket within a micromarket, of course, but technically this version concentrates know-how cultivated by BMW for years in its factory in Dingolfing in Bavaria.
Close protection
It all starts with a specific self-supporting shell using very resistant hot-formed armored steel. The doors are also completely redesigned, while armor completely covers the underside of the car. The glazing is obviously very particular and the new generation assaults are taken into account. BMW mentions in particular explosive drone attacks, which would be thwarted by the use of specific shielding of the roof, but also of the underside of the body.
You need that to pass the VR9 protection class awarded by a specialized German association with flying colors. The i7 Protection thus meets the VPAM BRV standards for ballistic resistance and VPAM ERV for explosive resistance. The glazing is the best for civilian use since it resists bullets from a Kalashnikov (caliber 7.62).
The 20-inch rims accommodate Michelin PAX tires capable of running at 80 km/h when flat. BMW claims to have limited the visual differences between a normal i7 and an armored i7 as much as possible, as this is entirely part of a global protection strategy. Discretion is therefore essential, even if you quickly notice the standard bearers located on the fenders. Be aware, however, that everything is possible when it comes to personalization. An air reprocessing system can protect the occupants from a gas attack, fire extinguishers are offered, as are many communication technologies.
A colossal couple
To get out of a bad situation, the driver can count on the powerful electric motors of the i7, which can produce 544 hp and a torque of 745 Nm! Despite its weight which should be enormous, knowing that an unarmored i7 can exceed 2.7 t, the i7 Protection goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 9 s with a maximum speed electronically limited to 160 km/h.
BMW promises a chassis that has retained a certain agility, thanks in particular to its active steering on all four wheels. The Bavarian brand announces a consumption of 30 kWh at 100 km, i.e. a range of more than 320 km with a 105 kWh battery. The price has not been made public, but the note will certainly be salty.