Ingolstadt based car maker, Audi, has launched the high-security version of its A8 flagship sedan, which meets the class VR7 ballistic protection standards.
The ballistic model is based on the recently facelifted 2014 A8 L and will be available with a V8 4.0-liter TFSI, which has a max power of 435 HP (320 kW) and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of peak torque, which enables the armored sedan to reach 62 mph (100 kmph) in 7.5 seconds. The fuel consumption of the car stands at 10.9 liters / 100 km (21.5 mpg US or 25.8 mpg UK).
Audi is also offering the ballistic model with a larger W12 FSI naturally-aspirated engine with 500 HP (368 kW) and 625 Nm (461 lb-ft), which dismisses the 0-62 mph mark in 7.1 seconds and goes on to accelerate to reach its electronically limited top speed of 130 mph (210 kmph). The W12-powered model consumes 13.5 liters / 100 km (17.4 mpg US or 20.8 mpg UK).
The vehicle is 5.27 meters (17.29 ft.) long with a 3.12 meter (10.24 ft.) wheelbase and looks virtually the same as the regular A8 L. The V8-powered model features LED headlights whereas the W12 version gets the Matrix LED
technology.
The model has been certified by the German Ballistics Testing Center in Munich and it complies with the VR 7 ballistic protection standard requirements as specified in the BRV (Bullet Resistant Vehicles) 2009 guideline. Audi mentions that in some of the areas, the vehicle’s armor plating complies with VR 9 and VR 10 criteria.
Owners in need of additional safety-related equipment can order the A8 L Security with an emergency exit system patented by Audi, as well as with a fire extinguisher system and an emergency fresh-air system. Other features available upon request include a smoke extractor, selective unlocking of doors, LED signal system for convoy driving, siren, flashing lights and an accident data recorder.
Already available on order, deliveries of the 2014 Audi A8 L Security will commence in the third quarter of this year.