BMW has revealed the Concept 7 Protection which is an armoured luxury sedan developed to withstand selected handgun attacks and other security threats. The concept is based on the BMW 7 Series and introduces a protection category below the existing X5 Protection VR6 and 7 Series Protection. The vehicle retains the exterior appearance and luxury appointments of the regular sedan despite extensive modifications to its passenger compartment. BMW has identified selected European markets for the concept for now.
The Concept 7 Protection complies with the new BayB standard which covers selected handgun ammunition such as 9×19 mm and .44 Magnum cartridges. The vehicle targets threats that do not require the more extensive ballistic and blast protection of BMW’s high security models. The 7 Series Protection meets VR9 requirements and offers VPAM 10 certification as an option. The X5 Protection VR6 occupies another category within BMW’s armoured vehicle lineup.
The protective structure incorporates substantially thicker ballistic glass and reinforced doors containing steel and fibre reinforced composite materials. Additional armour covers the junctions between the doors, windows and surrounding body panels. The rear quarter windows receive concealed protective inserts. BMW has also installed steel and composite reinforcement beneath the panoramic glass roof alongside protection for the bulkhead and rear cabin wall. The roof retains its original exterior design but its sun blind stays permanently closed.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Model | BMW 7 Series Sedan |
| Powertrain | Plug-In Hybrid |
| Powertrain Technology | BMW M760e xDrive |
| Petrol Engine | 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Six |
| Petrol Engine Power | 420 hp |
| Electric Motor Power | 194 hp |
| Combined Maximum Power | 603 hp |
| Combined Maximum Torque | 800 Nm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Steptronic Automatic |
| Drivetrain | BMW xDrive AWD |
| Protection Standard | BayB |
| Handgun Ammunition Covered | Selected 9×19 mm And .44 Magnum Rounds |
| Protective Materials | Ballistic Steel And Fibre-Reinforced Composites |
| Armoured Glazing | Yes |
| Roof Protection | Steel And Composite Reinforcement |
| Intercom System | Yes |
| Attack Alarm | Visual And Audible Alerts |
| Electrically Operated Side Windows | Restricted Opening |
The concept features the plug-in hybrid powertrain from the BMW M760e xDrive. The system combines a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine pushing out 420 hp and an electric motor producing 194 hp. Combined output stands at 603 hp and 800 Nm of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission incorporates the electric motor and BMW’s xDrive system distributes power between both axles. The suspension, brakes and driver assistance systems have been recalibrated to account for the additional armour.
The Concept 7 Protection gains an intercom system that enables communication with people outside the vehicle without opening the doors or windows. Interior and exterior microphones work alongside dedicated speakers for two-way conversations. An attack alarm can activate visual and audible warnings during a security incident. The front and rear side windows retain electric operation but their opening range is restricted to preserve the protective structure.
On the inside, the concept receives smoke white Merino leather upholstery, Alcantara interior trim and an anthracite Alcantara headliner. Sun protection glazing and electronically operated sunblinds provide additional privacy for passengers. The cabin also features a digital interior mirror to improve rearward visibility. BMW has continued with the 7 Series’ spacious passenger compartment and luxury appointments despite the incorporation of ballistic protection components.
The rear cabin comes with optional foldable table, wireless charging tray and integrated cool box. The table provides a dedicated workspace for rear passengers and the new console will become available on BMW 7 Series models during the second half of 2027. BMW develops and manufactures its protection vehicles internally and provides dedicated aftersales support as it has more than 45 years of expertise in this category.
