BMW unveils armored i7 Protection sedan: safe, secure, and a bit sluggish

BMW is, without a doubt, pioneering in more ways than one. First, the German automaker brings us the luxurious i7 and then surprises us with its armored version. The i7 claims the throne as the first electric luxury sedan to get a protective makeover. If you're a head of state, a billionaire entrepreneur, or a successful 'pharmaceutical entrepreneur' - this might be the car you didn't know you needed.

Upon first glance, one word springs to mind - subtlety. The optional flashy lights and flag poles (probably the most visible giveaways that you're riding in something more than a regular sedan) aside, the exterior remains almost identical to the standard models. BMW's strategy here is to blend in rather than stick out like a sore thumb in public areas.

You might be curious about the tires since those are always the weak spot for this type of vehicle. Well, they're unique 20-inch alloys, perfectly compatible with a beastly braking system, wrapped in Michelin PAX run-flat tires. Now, these aren't your average tires, but that's what you'd expect from a car that is preparing for any scenario.

Under its luxurious exterior, this armored sedan is built like a tank. The BMW Protection Core - a protective armor steel structure - is married with underbody armor, thick safety glass windows, and the gasoline-powered version even gets a self-sealing casing for the fuel tank - the i7 has additional armor plating for the battery pack. Should you ever find yourself under drone attack or amidst exploding grenades, BMW assures you're safe.

The interior, BMW promises, remains spacious and comfortable despite all the protective changes. There's even a standard intercom system that lets you chat with the outside world without cracking a window or door. And for those moments when you're escaping from danger but still want to jam to your favorite tune? Well, BMW's got you covered with a 28-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System. It's almost like they're saying, "Why not have a mini-concert while you're at it?"

A downside? Performance. If you thought the armored i7 would give you lightning speeds, think again. With all the extra weight from the armor, the car hits 0-62 mph in 9 seconds, which might be a tad slow for those accustomed to a speedier BMW. However, let's not forget you're driving an electric tank.

The i7 Protection will be showcased at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich this September. Once it goes on sale, the i7 Protection will only be available in Europe. As part of the purchase, BMW is throwing in specialized training courses if you're really thinking of getting behind the wheel of one of these.

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