First BMW i7 ‘Protection’ revealed

BMW has unveiled a new generation of protection vehicles in the luxury sedan segment.

The two models developed for the new BMW 7 Series succeed in blending a protection concept with ride comfort and spaciousness, and advanced equipment features.

As the world’s first ever protection sedan with an all-electric drive system, the BMW i7 Protection (electric power consumption combined in WLTP cycle – 30.0kWh/100km provisional) is a trailblazer, says BMW.

“Driven by two powerful electric motors, it meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection without any limitations, as does the new combustion-engine BMW 7 Series Protection (fuel consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 15.6l/100km [18.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions: 355g/km, provisional).

“The integrated security concept of the new BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection was factored into the development of the new BMW 7 Series range.

“It centres around the new BMW Protection Core, which comprises the model-specific self-supporting body structure made from armour steel. This is then combined with features such as additional armouring for the underbody and roof and armoured glass.”

Both models will be built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in a “craft manufacturing” process.

The two protection vehicles are set to make their public debut at the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, September 5-10, with deliveries to customers requiring special protection starting December 2023.

The new models offer customised protection from attacks with firearms or explosives for at-risk individuals.

The first all-electric model in its protection category is offered exclusively in Europe.

At the IAA Mobility 2021 show, the company presented the BMW Concept iX5 Hydrogen Protection VR6, the first protection vehicle with a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell drive system to be certified in the world.

The two electric motors in the BMW i7 Protection have a combined output of up to 400kW power and 745 Nm torque and sprints to 100km/h in 9.0 seconds, while it also has an electronically limited 160km/h top speed.

BMW offers special Protection driver training courses.