Audi is introducing a new, exclusive model to the Middle East – the A8 L Security. The long-wheelbase high-security version of the A8 meets the strictest guidelines in force for civilian vehicles.
The A8 L Security has been officially certified by a German-government ballistics testing facility for compliance with the class VR 7 ballistic protection standard. Class VR 7 ballistic protection imposes the strictest standards on civilian high-security sedans. The sheet metal and glazing in the passenger cell must withstand firing with NATO hard-core ammunition.
The Audi A8 L Security is capable of withstanding an attack with a military hand grenade. Even an explosive charge defined from the test program does not pose a lethal threat to passengers, as demonstrated by measurements taken during testing on dummies.
For customers, a multitude of special options are available for enhanced security. Among these is the emergency exit system with pyrotechnical separating screws in the hinges that detach the door from the body, a technology patented by Audi. Another security feature is the fire extinguisher system, which is activated via heat sensors or by pushing a button and sprays the extinguishing agent into the wheel arches, onto the underfloor, tank, and into the engine compartment.
Numerous additional solutions round out the offering: a smoke extractor for the passenger compartment, an LED signaling system for convoy travel, flashing lights, a siren, a preparation for professional mobile radio systems, a flag holder, a permanently installed telephone, an accident data recorder, an additional rearview camera and a heated windshield plus partially heated side windows.
Audi is launching the new A8 L Security with two engines – the W12 and the 4.0 TFSI. From a displacement of 6.3 liters, the W12 pumps out 500 hp of power and 625 Nm of torque, with the latter readily available at 4,750 rpm. The 4.0 TFSI outputs 420 hp and 600 Nm of torque between 1500–4500 rpm. The engines accelerate the A8 L Security from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 and 7.9 seconds respectively. In both versions, power is transmitted to all four wheels via an eight-speed tiptronic.
Prices start from USD 600,000 depending on equipment.