BMW’s Concept 7 Protection Is An Armored 7 Series Designed To Stop 9×19 mm And .44 Magnum Bullets

BMW has unveiled the Concept 7 Protection, a new armored 7 Series-based sedan designed to provide discreet security for customers facing everyday and unpredictable threats, without sacrificing the comfort and driving experience of its flagship 7 Series.

The Concept 7 Protection sits below the more heavily armored BMW 7 Series Protection, which offers VR9 protection and an optional VPAM 10 rating, and the X5 Protection VR6 in the German automaker’s security vehicle lineup.

Based on technology from the BMW M760e xDrive, the Concept 7 Protection features a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 426-hp 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine with a 197-hp electric motor. The system produces a combined 612 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque.

While retaining the character of a BMW 7 Series, it offers a level of protection that combines substantially thicker bullet-resistant glass with ballistic steel and fibre-reinforced composite materials integrated into the doors, roof and other sections of the passenger compartment.

According to BMW, the Concept 7 Protection complies with the new BayB standard and is designed to provide protection against handgun ammunition such as 9×19 mm and .44 Magnum rounds. While it can address attacks during road travel, it does not offer blast protection, which requires a higher level of vehicle protection.

Other security equipment includes an intercom system that allows occupants to communicate with people outside while keeping the doors and windows closed. An attack alarm provides both visual and audible alerts, while the side windows can open electronically but cannot be fully lowered.

Inside, the Concept 7 Protection retains the luxurious character of the 7 Series, featuring Smoke White BMW Individual Merino leather, Alcantara trim, privacy sunblinds and a digital interior mirror. The rear cabin also features a console with a folding table, wireless charging tray and cool box.

The German luxury brand has not announced the Concept 7 Protection as a production model. Instead, the concept previews a potential expansion of the company’s armored vehicle portfolio, with an initial focus on selected European markets.

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