Munich Motor Show 2023: BMW i7 Protection Showcased

BMW has showcased the i7 Protection at the 2023 Munich Motor Show. This is especially unique since this is the world's first-ever certified protection sedan with an all-electric drive system. Simply put, it’s the first EV to have this option. It meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection without any limitations, just like the V8-powered BMW 7 Series Protection.

The i7 Protection is built around BMW’s Protection Core. This means that forms a self-supporting body structure made from armour steel. This is further combined with additional armouring for the underbody and roof as well as armoured glass. The result is protection from attacks with firearms or explosives for at-risk individuals. The glass in the new protection vehicles meets the requirements for the highest class of civilian protection, VPAM 10.

The BMW i7 Protection is by two electric motors, one at the front axle and one at the rear. The combined output stands 536 bhp and 745 Nm of peak torque, with an all-wheel drive system. The claimed 0 to 100 kmph time stands at 9 seconds, while top speed is limited to 160 kmph. BMW has specifically tuned and optimised the chassis of the i7 Protection to deal with all the extra weight from the armouring.

Furthermore, BMW has added the ‘Integral Active Steering’ as standard. This is said to help reduce the car's turning circle, increase agility when cornering at speed and improve driving comfort for rear-seat passengers. The 20-inch light-alloy wheels and PAX tyres allow the car to travel at up to 80 kmph even in the event of a total loss of pressure. That’s not all BMW has done to keep the i7 Protection passengers safe.

The latest generation of BMW Drive based on BMW Operating System 8.5 has been fitted to the i7 Protection, which comes with special functions relevant to occupant protection. This includes a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguishing system, flashing lights, radio transceivers and flag poles for when the car is on official duty, plus other special customer-specific options.