BMW has reportedly won one of Germany’s most important government contracts. According to “Spiegel”, the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) has chosen the BMW 7 Series Protection as a new armored state vehicle, beating out offers from Mercedes-Benz and Audi. The BKA security group is responsible for protecting the country’s top officials, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. For decades, this job was typically handled by Mercedes S-Class Guard models, so BMW’s win marks a significant shift.
Built for the job
The 7 Series Protection from BMW (internal code G73) is not just a modified version of the standard luxury sedan. It was built from the ground up as an armored car. The body consists of what BMW calls a “Protection Core” – a self-supporting structure made of high-strength steel that is integrated directly into the chassis and roof frame. This design provides complete 360-degree protection without the compromises of aftermarket conversions.
The glass and panels can withstand large-caliber bullets, while the underbody is reinforced to protect against small explosive devices. In its highest configuration, the car meets VPAM 10 standards – one of the most stringent civilian protection classes – and can withstand fire from rifles such as the 7.62×54mm R ammunition commonly used in Russian sniper rifles and machine guns.
Strength and weight
While BMW also offers a fully electric i7 Protection, according to “Der Spiegel”, the BKA has opted for the model with a combustion engine – the 760i Protection. It uses a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 paired with mild hybrid technology and produces around 544 horsepower. The same engine is not even available in regular 7 Series sedans in the German market, making it a special application for public use.
The car weighs well over 4,000 kilograms (8,800 pounds) but is still capable of reaching high speeds when necessary. The BMW engineering team has specifically adapted the suspension, brakes and stability systems to the additional mass, ensuring predictable driving behavior in high-pressure situations.
Specially tailored brakes, chassis components and Michelin PAX run-flat tires (20-inch alloy wheels) enable the G73 to continue driving at up to 80 km/h even without air in the tires. A self-sealing fuel tank reduces the risk of fire following an attack. The car is also designed to withstand certain explosives, including drone-dropped devices and hand grenades.
Inside, buyers can choose the same comfort features as the regular G70 7 Series – executive lounge seats, massage functions, privacy blinds, a cool box and high-end audio. The BMW Curved Display and a special Protection Command Touch System integrate safety functions into the cabin. Even the iDrive infotainment system was developed specifically for this BMW 7 Series Protection. Through a special menu, drivers and passengers gain access to tailored functions such as intercom and lighting control, communication with the outside world and others.
A victory for BMW
For BMW, the deal is more than a symbolic victory. This puts Munich at the center of German public transport, a role that has traditionally been dominated by Mercedes. In addition to the standard models, the 7 Series Protection is built at the BMW Dingolfing plant, where the electric i7 and 5 Series are also produced.
[Source: Der Spiegel via BimmerToday]
