The new Audi A8 L Security offers supreme protection for fitting passengers

An array of high-security equipment features complements the armour plating of the new Audi A8 L Security. At 5,270mm long and with a wheelbase of 3,120mm, the new Audi A8 L Security is, visually, barely distinguishable from the production version. Complete with its quattro permanent all-wheel drive, it is the lightest luxury sedan in the high-security segment.

Its basis is a modified production body made largely from aluminum according to the Audi Space Frame (ASF) principle. As a result, it weighs roughly 40 percent less than an equivalent body made from steel.

The components that are specific to this version are hand made by specially trained workers in a secure production zone.

The new Audi A8 L Security has been officially certified by the German Ballistics Testing Centre to comply with the requirements of the class VR 7 ballistic protection standard in accordance with the Bullet Resistant Vehicles (BRV) 2009 guideline.

The high-security sedan's occupant cell features extremely tough, highly resistant materials. The aluminum side sills incorporate massive ballistic-proof profiles that afford increased protection against explosive weapons including attacks by military hand grenades. For the door windows, windshield and rear window, Audi uses special glass with a splinter-inhibiting polycarbonate layer on the inside.

The standard equipment of the new Audi A8 L Security also includes the intercom system that the passengers can use to communicate with the outside world with the windows shut. It comprises a loudspeaker in the Single frame grille, along with microphones for the interior and for the vehicle's surroundings.

There is a choice of two high-end engines for the new A8 L Security - the 4.0-litre TFSI and the W12 FSI - both complying with the Euro 6 emissions standard. On both engines, an eight-speed tiptronic takes charge of the transmission - operated via a selector lever or by paddles on the steering wheel.

The eight-cylinder engine develops 435bhp and 600Nm of torque. It accelerates the new A8 L Security to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds while sipping 10.9 litres of fuel per 100km travelled. The W12 naturally aspirated power unit develops 500bhp and 625Nm of torque for a 7.1 second century sprint before a governed top speed of 210km/h to return 13.5L/100km.

Orders can already be placed for the new Audi A8 L Security W12, with deliveries starting in the third quarter of 2014.