Armour-plated security comes to more BMW models

Expanding the range of special BMW Security vehicles offering protection from
firearms attack, robbery, kidnap and car jacking, BMW today announces the
introduction of X5 Security cars. The X5 Security joins 7 Series High Security
and 3 Series Security vehicles, which have become the cars of choice for
visiting heads of state, high profile business people and celebrities
throughout the world.

From the exterior all BMW Security cars are almost identical to standard road
cars bringing absolute discretion to owners. However appearances can be
deceptive - and shocking for potential assailants - as all Security models are
heavily armoured, featuring significant modifications like bullet-resistant,
reinforced passenger cells, triple glazing and strengthened door joins.

All modifications are engineered into Security cars during production, a
process reflected in the case of the 7 Series High Security by its unique
engineering number - E67.

This creates a more comprehensive security package than post-production
armouring (retrofitting) which can leave hollow cavities unsecured and cause
unnecessary weight penalties. Even though all BMW Security cars are designed to
provide the ultimate in protection from violent attack, they also boast similar
performance and comfort to equivalent road cars.

X5 4.4i Security:

The latest BMW Security vehicle, the X5 4.4i Security is particularly suited to
remote areas or where roads are poorly maintained. In these conditions an
armoured Sports Activity Vehicle fitted with xDrive, BMW's revolutionary
four-wheel drive system, offers the perfect deterrent to the threat of ambush
or attack.

Conforming to the independent weapons standard B4*, the X5 Security's
reinforced glass stops ammunition up to calibre .44 Magnum from breaching the
glass. The glazing is approximately 20mm thick and coated in polycarbonate
which acts as splinter protection for the passenger cell.

Door shuts, cable ducts and door joins in the B pillar are normally weaker
areas of any car. To provide a completely secure passenger cell, these areas of
the X5 Security are reinforced to ensure no munitions can penetrate. The entire
reinforced passenger cell features sections supplemented by ballistic resistant
steel capable of withstanding a .44 Magnum attack. Run-flat tyres allow the
driver to travel safely up to 30 miles at speeds of 50mph, even when punctured
or deflated.

The X5 Security compromises neither performance nor interior comfort in its
design. It comes with a V8 4.4-litre engine developing maximum output of 320
bhp at 6,100 rpm. Its 0-62 time of 7.6 seconds means that it is more than
capable of leaving the scene of an incident quickly while its 130 mph top speed
will leave any pursuers far behind.

330i Security:

Like the X5 Security, the BMW 330i Security closely resembles the standard 330i
road car. However its chassis has been extensively adapted to compensate for
additional weight, with reinforced springs and dampers. This ensures that it
is just as agile and safe to drive as the production version, and still boasts
a top speed of 130 mph and 0-62 time of 7.3 seconds.

Conforming to the independent weapons standard B4, joins and gaps in the
armoured body shell are reinforced with ballistic resistant steel and high-tech
fibre material. Bullets or splinters are prevented from penetrating the
interior even at gaps and overlapping points. In addition, a special
fibre-reinforced mat in the underbody area of the passenger cell is available
as an option, preventing bullet splinter penetration.

Common to both X5 and 330i Security cars is an intercom featuring 'assault
alarm'. Occupants are able to communicate with those outside the vehicle - at a
road block for example - without opening a door or window via an internal
microphone and loudspeakers incorporated into the exterior mirrors.

In the event of a hostile reception, occupants press a button to activate the
assault alarm. This features a loud siren which wails intermittently for 30
seconds, complemented by flashing high-beam headlights and foglights.

7 Series High Security:

BMW 7 Series High Security exceeds even the high levels of protection offered
by BMW 330i Security and BMW X5 Security vehicles. Meeting the requirements of
B6/B7 weapons standard, 760 Li and 745 Li High Security derivatives are able to
withstand attack from explosives or bullets of the armour-piercing 7.62 x 54R
API calibre - often used by terrorist organisations.

Standard underbody protection prevents grenade fragments from entering the
passenger cell. Its effectiveness has been verified independently with hand
grenades detonated simultaneously below the driver's seat and the rear right
seat.

Fibre-reinforced material and special steel elements are used as an additional
measure against armour piercing munitions. The material prevents fragments and
secondary projectiles from entering the passenger compartment and keeps their
angle of dispersion as small as possible.

High Security 7 Series feature multi layer laminated triple glazing, with an
internal polycarbonate layer. Its function is to protect passengers from glass
fragments.

A host of additional features serve to protect occupants in the event of attack:

.. Emergency exit through front windscreen
.. Intercom system with additional 'attack alarm' function
.. Remote starting system
.. Fire-extinguishing system with temperature sensors
.. Emergency fresh-air system
.. Partially lowered windows
.. Automatic central locking when moving off

Ownership:

Owners and chauffeurs of Security and High Security cars are offered special
training programmes, helping them to understand and practice the requirements
of car control in critical driving conditions. Vehicles can be serviced and
repaired at selected BMW workshops or will be maintained by a worldwide
operation crew. Parts supply is assured thanks to a dedicated worldwide
logistics programme.

To ensure that these special vehicles do not make their way into the wrong
hands, BMW offers a special 'buy back' service for Security cars which are up
to seven years old. Following a thorough technical inspection at BMW's
Dingolfing Plant, they are either sold or go into BMW's car pool. Cars from the
Security car pool are then made available for potential customers throughout
the world, at short notice.

Notes to editors:

1. The inspection and classification of BMW security models is carried out by
the State Ballistic Authority in Munich in accordance with Euro standard DIN
1063 and DIN 1522/23-1. The guidelines of the Munich Ballistic Authority
provide the criteria for specially protected vehicles - i.e B4 for X5 and 330
Security and B6/7 for High Security 7 Series.

2. Due to the nature of the security vehicle market and the purpose for which
these cars are designed, BMW will not release sensitive information or
technical detail about its security cars.