BMW i7 Protection is first armored BEV

The BMW i7 Protection is the world’s first-ever protection berline with an all-electric drive system. It is driven by two powerful electric motors and meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection without any limitations.

The new BMW i7 Protection integrated security concept was factored into developing the new BMW 7 Series range. It centers around the new BMW Protection Core, unique worldwide, and comprises the model-specific self-supporting body structure made from armor steel.

This is combined with armoring for the underbody, roof, and armored glass. The i7 Protection and its ICE brother 760i xDrive Protection will be built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in an elaborate ‘craft manufacturing process’.

The two protection vehicles are set to make their public debut at the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, with deliveries to customers requiring special protection commencing in December 2023.

Model-specific technology

The new BMW i7 Protection comes with chassis technology that has been modified and specifically tuned, making allowance for the additional weight resulting from its special protection features. The protection berline also makes its mark with precisely controllable handling, even when it’s being driven hard, such as when escaping an attack.

The new BMW i7 Protection and new BMW 7 Series Protection are the first and only protection vehicles in their segments to be fitted with Integral Active Steering. This rear-wheel steering functionality reduces the car’s turning circle when maneuvering and increases precision and the dynamic response through quickly taken corners. Another critical attribute of Integral Active Steering is how it enhances driving comfort for rear-seat passengers.

The model-specific light-alloy wheels in star-spoke design are fitted with tires supplied by Michelin in the dimensions 255-740 R510. They have been specifically developed for the protection berline. The large diameter of these tires and the extremely high air volume they hold compared with rivals enhance ride comfort, while the larger contact area benefits traction and driving stability.

These PAX tires have a run-flat ring positioned on the wheel rim, allowing the car to continue its journey at up to 80 kph, even in the event of a total pressure loss.

Effective protection measures

The new BMW i7 Protection can be tailored precisely to any purpose, with items including a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguisher with automatic and manual discharge, flashing lights, radio transceivers, and flag poles for when the car is on official duty, plus other unique customer-specific options.

“The new BMW i7 Protection offers built-in security from the factory. Unlike retrofit solutions carried out by an external provider, the integral protection concept of these vehicles ensures maximum security under armed attack, well-resolved handling, and the dynamic responses expected of a BMW in dangerous situations,” says the press release.

“The smooth integration of the model-specific protection features within the BMW iDrive system helps ensure these features are intuitive, safe, and comfortable for the driver to use in any situation,” BMW claims.

Specific customer requests can be accommodated when equipping the vehicle with additional protection and convenience features. Service and maintenance for the protection berline are provided by an international network of BMW service outlets, with the work carried out exclusively by trained experts in certified specialist workshops.

BMW also offers special Protection driver training courses. These programs, which BMW has been hosting for more than 35 years, are provided at various intensity levels depending on the participants’ prior knowledge and take place at several locations worldwide.

BMW doesn’t give precise figures about the car’s total weight, but a (provisional) WLTP consumption of 30 kWh/100 km indicates the vehicle won’t be lightweight. Of course, the weight can differ according to the special options a potential client may order.