Few people know it, but BMW also shines in another area: the design of security vehicles, capable of withstanding attacks with assault rifles or explosives. And precisely, the German brand has just announced the development of an armored version of the BMW i7, its latest 100% electric sedan.
Like many car manufacturers, BMW is currently undergoing its energy transition and intends to electrify a large part of its fleet in the years to come. Moreover, the brand confirmed its ambitions in 2021: sales of electric cars will increase by 50% per year until 2030, i.e. more than 10 times the figure recorded in 2020.
In March 2022, BMW unveiled the BMW iX1, its next 100% electric compact SUV with a range in the WLTP cycle of 413 to 438 kilometers according to the first information from the manufacturer. And in April, the German firm has lifted the veil on the BMW i7a gigantic electric sedan that looks like a limousine.
Already available for pre-order at the starting price of €139,900it will carry an xDrive60 powertrain capable of offering a power of 544 hp. It will also incorporate all-wheel drive, and will display a WLTP range between 590 and 625 km depending on the options thanks to a 101.7 kWh battery. For the wealthiest customers, it will even be possible to transform the BMW i7 into a cinema with a giant 31″ 8K screen called Theater Screen.
BMW will launch an armored version of the 100% electric i7
But you may not know it, but BMW has also distinguished itself for years in a very specific sector: armored vehicle design. Daniel Huber, an engineer by training, is responsible for the safety of armored cars at BMW. “In addition to the normal dangers of road traffic, owners of an armored car are exposed to special threats. This includes, in particular, attacks with firearms and explosives,” he explained in 2019.
Many models have been entitled to their armored version, and this will be the case with the BMW i7 as reported by our colleagues from Forbes. Fact, it will be the manufacturer’s first armored electric car. Forbes sources suggest there will be varying levels of protection, ranging from small arms fire to AK-47 type assault rifles to explosives.
Already far from being a featherweight with its 2700 kg in “standard” version, the armored BMW i7 should exceed 4 tons. In other words, drivers will have to be heavy vehicle license holders to drive the beast, an obligation when the PTAC (total authorized weight) exceeds 3.5 tonnes. Note that the autonomy should also take a hit in the wing, due to the overloading of the vehicle. According to Forbes, BMW is expected to make the existence of the armored BMW i7 official later this year.
Source: Forbes