BMW Hosts Real-World Tests with Clients from Eight Countries, Showcasing VR9 7 Series and VR6 X5 Armored Models

In May 2024, BMW hosted a live demonstration event for its armored vehicles at its Sokolov R&D Center, inviting 67 private clients from eight European countries. All attendees expressed interest in purchasing either a single unit or placing bulk orders for BMW’s armored models. During the event, participants compared the armored variants of the 7 Series and X5—based on their standard counterparts—alongside multiple conventional and high-performance versions, including the 740d, 750e, X5 50e, X5 40d, and X5 M. Attendees experienced emergency braking performance on curves and tested the armored X5’s extreme off-road capabilities on a dedicated off-road course. Both armored models were launched in 2023: the X5 meets the VR6 ballistic protection standard, while the 7 Series has been upgraded to VR9 level, offering resistance against sustained gunfire and explosive attacks. The armored 7 Series is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 mild-hybrid engine producing 523 horsepower and 750 Nm of peak torque. Additionally, an all-electric i7 armored variant based on the M70 xDrive platform is also available. The event was supported by driving instructors from Germany and the Czech Republic.