Some politicians and celebrities around the world are constantly facing death threats, which is why they need the most secure vehicles the industry has to offer. Audi will soon provide a new alternative with the launch of the long-wheelbase, high-security version of the A8 sedan.
The company says the A8 L Security is hardly distinguishable to the eye from the production model even though it complies with Class VR 7 ballistic protection standards. The sheet metal and glass in the passenger cell can actually withstand firing with NATO hardcore ammunition.
Said passenger cell features a convergence of extremely tough, resistant materials – hot-formed armoured steel, aramid fibre, ceramics, special alloyed aluminum and multilayer glass.
The aluminum side sills with integrated solid steel sections as well as the armoured floor help the car withstand an attack with a military hand grenade. Elsewhere, the side windows, windshield and rear window are all made of special glass with a polycarbonate coating on the inside to prevent spalling.
Despite the addition of these high-security materials, Audi made extra efforts to reduce weight to the extent of calling the A8 L Security "the lightest armoured vehicle among its peers".
Moving all this mass is a direct-injected, 6.3-litre W12 gasoline engine that cranks out 500 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque – good for 7.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed of 210 km/h. In case you're wondering, average fuel consumption is rated at 13.5 L/100 km.
In the coming year, Audi will offer a second engine that will combine outstanding pulling power with surprising efficiency. Both variants will transfer power via an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox.
A myriad of special options are available for enhanced security, including an emergency exit system, a fire extinguisher, an emergency fresh-air system, an LED signalling system, a siren, a permanently-installed phone plus an accident data recorder, just to name a few.
Beyond world-class security, the VIPs sitting inside will enjoy four-zone climate control, electric rear blinds, Bose surround sound, satellite TV and heated leather seats. Customers can also request from Audi a ''relaxation seat". A refrigerator and folding table are available, too.
Last but not least is MMI navigation plus, which can recognize complex scenarios and predictively support the driver to reduce the severity of accidents. Audi Pre Sense, Audi Lane Assist, Audi Top View and night vision assist all come standard to maximize recon and safety.
Deliveries of the indestructible Audi A8 L Security are scheduled to begin in late summer.
The company says the A8 L Security is hardly distinguishable to the eye from the production model even though it complies with Class VR 7 ballistic protection standards. The sheet metal and glass in the passenger cell can actually withstand firing with NATO hardcore ammunition.
Said passenger cell features a convergence of extremely tough, resistant materials – hot-formed armoured steel, aramid fibre, ceramics, special alloyed aluminum and multilayer glass.
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| Photo: Audi |
The aluminum side sills with integrated solid steel sections as well as the armoured floor help the car withstand an attack with a military hand grenade. Elsewhere, the side windows, windshield and rear window are all made of special glass with a polycarbonate coating on the inside to prevent spalling.
Despite the addition of these high-security materials, Audi made extra efforts to reduce weight to the extent of calling the A8 L Security "the lightest armoured vehicle among its peers".
Moving all this mass is a direct-injected, 6.3-litre W12 gasoline engine that cranks out 500 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque – good for 7.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed of 210 km/h. In case you're wondering, average fuel consumption is rated at 13.5 L/100 km.
In the coming year, Audi will offer a second engine that will combine outstanding pulling power with surprising efficiency. Both variants will transfer power via an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox.
A myriad of special options are available for enhanced security, including an emergency exit system, a fire extinguisher, an emergency fresh-air system, an LED signalling system, a siren, a permanently-installed phone plus an accident data recorder, just to name a few.
Beyond world-class security, the VIPs sitting inside will enjoy four-zone climate control, electric rear blinds, Bose surround sound, satellite TV and heated leather seats. Customers can also request from Audi a ''relaxation seat". A refrigerator and folding table are available, too.
Last but not least is MMI navigation plus, which can recognize complex scenarios and predictively support the driver to reduce the severity of accidents. Audi Pre Sense, Audi Lane Assist, Audi Top View and night vision assist all come standard to maximize recon and safety.
Deliveries of the indestructible Audi A8 L Security are scheduled to begin in late summer.
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| Photo: Audi |
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