BMW is preparing to launch a new version of its popular X5 SUV, the F15 Security Plus. To the casual observer, nothing is amiss with the X5, but to a firearm-wielding criminal bent on theft or worse, the F15 Security Plus is a rolling safehouse disguised as a BMW.
BMW will officially debut the armored X5 at the upcoming Moscow Auto Show next week, though the original concept made its first appearance in Frankfurt last year. The F15 Security Plus is designed to meet the VR6 protection level, meaning attacks from small arms fire like the AK-47, AR-15, and most hand guns will have no effect on the passenger?s health (well, save for panic or heart attacks).
Ballistic panels and glass aren?t the only modifications BMW has done to the F15. The chassis has been strengthened while the electronic management systems and brakes have been upgraded to deal with the added weight. Power comes from the twin-turbocharged, 4.4-liter V-8 making 445 horsepower and 480 pound feet of torque.
This isn?t BMW?s first in-house armored vehicle. The German automaker has been producing armored versions of its 7 Series for nearly two decades. Currently BMW is producing the VR7-rated 7 Series rated to protect against more lethal threats like explosives and higher-powered rifles.
BMW will also offer a lighter, VR4-rated X5 SUV for customers looking for basic protection but with minimal changes in vehicle driving dynamics. More details are slated for release once the vehicle debuts in Moscow.
Click past the jump to read more about the BMW X5 F15 Security Plus
BMW X5 F15 Security Plus originally appeared on topspeed.com on Tuesday, 19 August 2014 18:00 EST.
Source: http://feeds.topspeed.com/~r/topspeed/~3/28DrHB1eXGg/2015-bmw-x5-f15-security-plus-ar164966.html
Jac Nelleman Patrick Neve John Nicholson Cal Niday Helmut Niedermayr
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