MUNICH, Germany — BMW has upped the ante in a world rife with pirates and terrorists with its newest armored vehicle, the BMW X5 Security Plus. The German automaker says this particular crime-fighting SUV is designed to repel attacks with AK-47 firearms.
"The professional protection concept for the new BMW X5 Security Plus is designed to combat hot spots in which the AK-47 has become a typical firearm used by assailants," said BMW in a statement on Tuesday. "The BMW X5 Security Plus offers comprehensive protection against these kinds of attacks."
BMW said it took pains not to make the BMW X5 Security Plus stand out from more mundane versions of the SUV. It describes the X5 Security Plus as "neutrally designed" and says it can "hardly be distinguished" from corresponding production models. "This does justice to customer demands for discretion and also provides passengers with a higher level of security," the automaker said in a statement.
The X5 Security Plus gets a 355-horsepower 4.8-liter V8. It accelerates from zero to 60 mph in less than 8.2 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph.
Details include a high-performance brake system and tires that "remain functional even after being shot at."
In addition to armor plating, the X5 Security Plus gets an intercom system to communicate with persons outside the vehicle, along with acoustic and visual alarms. Options include a rearview camera and a sideview camera integrated into the front bumper to provide "a detailed overview of what is going on in front of the vehicle."
As part of the package, BMW said it will provide special security vehicle driver training. No word yet on pricing.
Inside Line says: BMW creates a special X5 that's fit for James Bond — or celebrities and CEOs with special security needs. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »