BMW rolls out X5 panzer

BMW has revealed what it says is the world’s first vehicle to resist bullets from the world’s most popular assault rifle, the AK47.

In a departure from its tradition of building armoured vehicles based on the 7 Series limousine, the Bavarian brand says its new X5 Security Plus, which won’t be made available in Australia, complies with the requirements of bullet resistance Class 6.

According to BMW, that makes it the first vehicle produced by a high-volume manufacturer to offer a security concept aimed at lessening the danger of attacks using the world’s most widely used handgun (sic), the AK47.

The four-seat X5 SP is billed as the perfect vehicle in which to cope effortlessly with demanding situations, both on-road and off.

Its passenger compartment is protected by high-performance steel moulded components, while its bodyshell features sealed joints and high-security glass covered with a polycarbonate coating.

“The professional protection concept for the new BMW X5 Security Plus is designed to combat criminal threats such as robbery, abduction or carjacking, however, additionally for employment in hot spots in which the AK47 has become a typical firearm used by assailants,” says BMW.

“The BMW X5 Security Plus offers comprehensive protection against these kind of attacks. Its security features were devised exclusively for this model and thoroughly tested within the framework of product development. The integration of the protective components was effected parallel to the series development of the BMW X5.”