The new Audi A8 L Security is the world’s most secure Audi ever
Are you a member of the state? Got a beef with some local terrorist factions or cartels? Accidentally end up sleeping with the big boss’s daughter? Need shelter from your wife when it’s that time of the month and she has a crowbar in hand?
Sweat no more, because Audi just revealed their latest armored version of their flagship sedan, the A8 L, to bring you the new Audi A8 L Security, which Ingolstadt boasts as the world’s “most secure Audi ever.”
How secure is it? We’re talking a boost from the previous VPAM VR7, to the highest possible protection rating ever, VR9. Ok, what does all this jargon mean? According to armored car specialist firm, Aurum Security GmbH (not the ones responsible for this A8 L Security however), VPAM VR9 rating is enought to stop a massive .308 Winchester round, a bullet often found in guns more powerful than a AK47, an M16, and even a .357 or .44 Magnum revolver.
That’s thanks to a whole range of safety materials added to the A8 L’s chassis, from unique aluminum alloys, aramide fabric, hot-formed steel, maybe some Kevlar here and there, and an electronic force-field (we wish).
Though with all this added protection, the A8 L Security isn’t skimped on power either in the event outrunning the enemy is more tactful than betting on the A8 L’s outer protection as power is supplied by a twin-turbo 4.0L TFSI V8 with 430hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. Should your enemies have an Aston Martin or something, Volkswagen AG’s beefy W12 is also available as an option, with all-wheel drive as standard.
Top speed however is limited to 130 MPH in order to stay within the confines of the run-flat tires.
Need to place an order for one, or a few for your own personal posse? It’ll be ready on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week with sales commencing next year. The US Secret Service will most likely wish they had it this good…
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Audi A8 L Security: most secure Audi ever
Audi has once again further developed its armored high-security sedan. At the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt am Main, the premium brand is presenting the most secure Audi ever in the form of the A8 L Security. The car will satisfy the criteria of the class VR 9 ballistic protection standard, currently the most stringent requirements for civilian high-security sedans.
Audi has once again made its armored security sedan even more robust. For instance, from now on the safety cell of the new Audi A8 L Security will integrate extremely resistant materials – aramide fabric, special aluminum alloys and a hot-formed steel armor that offers even more protection despite its lower weight. Audi engineers also further developed the vehicle’s glazing. These improvements mean that the total vehicle is now certified to the requirements of resistance class VR 9. It has been tested for resistance to explosive charges in accordance with the ERV 2010 guideline. Previously, the A8 L Security fulfilled resistance class VR 7.
The company manufacturers each order entirely under its own supervision in a partnership between the Neckarsulm plant and a secure, top-secret factory. Standard security features of the luxury sedan include an armored communication box in the luggage compartment, an intercom for communication with the outside world and selective door unlocking. Upon request, Audi can deliver solutions such as its patented emergency exit system, a fire extinguishing system and an emergency fresh air system. Along with standard comfort features such as the relaxation seat at the rear, Audi can also satisfy individual requests.
The Audi A8 L Security assumes a unique position in its segment. Its quattro drive makes it the only luxury sedan with an all-wheel drive system that is offered directly from the manufacturer as an armored high-security vehicle. Thanks to the high share of aluminum in the body, the vehicle’s weight is relatively low. Nonetheless, it can handle a maximum payload of 600 kg (1,322.8 lb), which is the best figure in the competitive field.
Two engines are available for the high-security sedan. The 4.0 TFSI, a biturbo V8, has a power output of 320 kW (435 hp) and produces 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) of torque. The naturally aspirated W 12 FSI offers 368 kW (500 hp) and 625 Nm (461.0 lb‑ft) of torque. Its torque performance is strong, and its top speed is electronically governed to 210 km/h (130.5 mph) – a limit set in consideration of the tires that possess exceptional emergency flat-running properties. The entire chassis and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive are specifically designed to meet the high security requirements.
Orders are now being accepted for the updated Audi A8 L Security. Delivery is scheduled to begin in spring 2016.
Fuel consumption of the models named above:
Audi A8 L Security:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 13.5 – 10.9 (17.4 – 21.6 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 314 – 254 (505.3 – 408.8 g/mi)
– By: Chris Chin
