BMW has launched the all-new BMW 7 Series Protection in India, the latest addition to the full-sized luxury sedan segment. This new model sees BMW combine state-of-the-art security features with the comfort and performance associated with the brand. The new BMW 7 Series Protection is built upon the foundation of the standard BMW 7 Series, integrating an advanced security concept known as the BMW Protection Core. In fact we’re told by BMW that the current generation 7 Series was conceptualised with the Protection version in mind right from the start. The ‘BMW Protection’ core consists of a unique, self-supporting body structure crafted from 10mm thick armour steel to provide protection against firearms, explosives and even fire from high-calibre ammunition.
The car’s fuel tank features ‘self-sealing’ tech, whereby any penetrations are automatically sealed off to avoid fuel getting drained or fuelling any fires further. Each door is said to weigh around 200kg, which includes the weight of the armoured glass used for the windows that is several inches thick and is bulletproof to say the very least. Unlike previous versions of the car, all four doors now feature four small explosive charges each which can be activated to open the door in case of emergency, without causing any harm to the occupants inside, besides which, given the weight of the doors, all four doors feature a motorised, automatic closing function.
The BMW 7 Series Protection is essentially the 760i xDrive Ice version with an M Sport Package, powered by a twin turbocharged V8 petrol engine producing 530PS and 750Nm, sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, besides which a 48V hybrid system is standard. The turbocharging system is an upgraded one and uses electrically operated blow-off valves and indirect charge air cooling, besides a cross-bank exhaust manifold. At about 4 tonnes, this is the heaviest iteration of the current generation 7 Series, but that said, this 7 Series Protection is about 200kg lighter than its predecessor. Despite its weight, the car is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100kmph in a claimed 6.6 seconds and attaining an electronically limited top speed of 210kmph. Claimed fuel efficiency for the 7 Series Protection is 15.6 litres/100km as per the WLTP cycle, which translates to about 6.4kmpl.
To ensure optimal handling and comfort the chassis technology of the BMW 7 Series Protection has been tuned to accommodate the additional weight from its security features. Integral Active Steering, a rear-wheel steering system, enhances manoeuvrability and stability, especially in tight corners according to BMW, besides making this car the first in its segment to employ all-wheel steering. BMW has had French tyre maker Michelin develop new tyres for the 7 Series Protection – these are 255-740 R510 tyres used exclusively on the protection sedan and will allow driving the car for a distance of about 30km, at speeds up to 80kmph, even when punctured and fully deflated.
Inside, the BMW 7 Series Protection maintains the spaciousness and luxury expected from a 7 Series, with customisable comfort features such as heated and ventilated seats (front, as well as optional for the rear seats), a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, and an optional Executive Lounge for rear-seat passengers. This is in addition to a dedicated Touch Command System operated via the infotainment screen which provides access and control of the car’s long list of security features, additional and special lights the car is equipped with and a lot more.
The 7 Series Protection also boasts advanced driver assistance systems for added safety, including collision warning and lane departure warning. Additionally, a range of optional equipment allows customers to tailor their vehicle to their specific security needs, such as a fresh-air supply system and a fire extinguisher with automatic discharge.
The BMW 7 Series Protection has undergone rigorous testing and certification processes to meet international standards for ballistic and blast resistance. This includes testing by independent state testing institutes to validate its effectiveness against firearms and explosives. Customers have a wide range of customization options available, both for the exterior and interior of the vehicle. This includes a variety of body colours, interior upholstery materials, and optional features such as a massage function for seats and an integrated cool box for beverages.
While BMW India has refrained from mentioning prices for the car officially to safeguard interests of potential customers for the 7 Series Protection, the car is expected to cost upwards of Rs 10 crores on-road including the various possible customisation options. The 7 Series Protection will go up against the Audi A8L Security in India and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Guard globally.
