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The bullet-resistant BMW X5
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
This is the BMW X5 Security Plus, an armoured version of the standard car that is designed to protect occupants from AK47-touting assailants.
The car is rated as having class six bullet resistance, which means it is strong enough to withstand bullets fired from most common handguns, including the AK47.
The four-seater's armour plating is focused on the rear passenger compartment, where steel panels and moulded components add protection to critical areas such as between the doors and frames.
Security glass, which is both bullet resitant and covered in a polycarbonate coating to withstand crowbar attack, is also fitted. The extra weight added by these protective materials means the car's suspension and brakes have been uprated.
The car also has an intercom system to allow occupants to talk to people outside the vehicle, an audio alarm and a visual warning beacon. The controls are all located on the centre console. Run-flat tyres mean the vehicle can travel at around 50mph for up to 100 miles.
Optional extras include rear, front and side view cameras.
The BMW X5 Security Plus is only available with a 350bhp 4.8-litre V8, which accelerates the car from 0-62mph in 8.2sec despite the increased weight from its armour plating.
No prices have been released.
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