BMW X5 Security Plus Concept (2013)

BMW X5 Security Plus Concept

At the 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show, BMW will be presenting the third generation of its highly successful SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle), together with a third generation of a Security version based on the regular model. The BMW X5 Security Plus Concept is the only vehicle in this class which fulfills the requirements of protection level VR6. Offering all-round protection against violent assault, kidnapping and organised crime, this model therefore meets the needs of risk-exposed private individuals and prominent public figures with enhanced security needs. Particularly in regions like South America, Africa or Russia, these are often important customer considerations. BMW has also developed a further version, the BMW X5 Security, which meets the requirements of protection level VR4 and provides reliable protection against general street crime. Both the BMW X5 Security and the BMW X5 Security Plus Concept combine effective occupant protection and generous comfort with the dynamic performance, agility and versatility typical of the BMW X models.

Built around an armoured passenger cell

The BMW X5 Security Plus Concept protection concept is based on an armoured passenger cell constructed from high-performance steel mouldings and panels and offering secure protection for up to four occupants against assault from the world's most popular firearm, the AK-47. To prevent bullet or fragment penetration it features sealed joints which provide protection specifically, for example, in the critical areas around doors or where panels adjoin body pillars. The security glass specially developed for this protection level is also resistant to attack by blunt weapons. The polycarbonate coating on the inside of the glass provides effective protection against flying splinters. Thanks to its excellent driveability - not least due to the superior performance of the powerful 330 kW/450 hp V8 petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system - the BMW X5 Security Plus Concept can be manoeuvred safely even in difficult situations, both on and off surfaced roads.

Integrated security features for maximum protection

As with all BMW Security models, the preparations for fitting the security-specific components and technologies of the BMW X5 Security Plus Concept were integrated from the outset in the development of the regular BMW X5 production model. As a result, the integrated system takes into account all active and passive safety criteria and offers maximum protection. At the same time the chassis, electronic management systems and brake system have been optimally adapted to the increased vehicle weight. The performance of these models is therefore virtually on a par with a regular BMW X5 model.

In addition, all BMW Security models are subjected to strict tests and internal proving which in some cases go far beyond statutory testing requirements. Hot-climate and cold-climate testing, for example, ensures the reliability and operational capability of BMW Security models even under extreme conditions. The extensive security concept also includes training programmes to instruct drivers in the correct handling and operation of Security vehicles.

Security discreetly integrated ex-works

The Security models based on the new BMW X5 are built in parallel with the regular production models at the BMW Spartanburg plant in the USA. The special security features themselves are installed by a highly skilled specialist workforce at the Toluca plant in Mexico. Unlike retrofitted armouring, which can still leave chinks in the protection, or can put excess strain on certain components due to the extra weight, the integrated factory-fitted BMW security features provide seamless protection and exclude the risk of potential weak links. A further bonus of BMW Security models is the discreet integration of their security features. Even to an expert eye, the BMW X5 Security Plus Concept is virtually indistinguishable from a regular production model - because anonymity too can be a useful security feature.