Audi
A8 L Security
The
world can be a dangerous place, particularly so if you're a high-value target
like a diplomat, tycoon, or celebrity. So for the—hopefully small—percentage of
clients who believe that there is quite literally someone gunning for them,
Audi offers the A8 L Security.
Based
on the company's long-wheelbase version its ultra-luxurious A8, the sedan
features all the trappings of a executive car, along with what James Bond's
Quartermaster might describe as some "optional extras." Under the
skin, hot-formed steel armor, aramide fabric—the type of material used in body
armor—and special aluminum alloys are employed to provide occupants with VR9
level of protection, the highest grade of ballistic certification for civilian
vehicles.
The
designation means the body and glass provide resistance to military-grade
small-arms like M14 and FAL-FN rifles from ten meters, and at least three shots
from squad-based heavy artillery like an M60 machine gun from a similar
distance. The Audi A8 L Security also meets the stringent ERV 2010 standard,
which mandates vehicles withstand a blast of 15 kilograms of TNT from two
meters.
Under
the hood, customers can choose either a 435-horsepower, 4.0-liter biturbo V-8,
or 500-hp W-12. Opting for the 12-pot mill means a top speed of 130 mph—an
electronic limit to reflect the capabilities of the run-flat tires. No other
performance specs are currently available.
Along
with the trick rubber, there's also an on-board fire suppression system, and
the cabin even has provisions to deliver passengers fresh air. Of course, the
nature of this niche vehicle means there are myriad custom possibilities. But a
convertible probably isn't on the menu.
