BMW X5 Security Plus is designed to resist an attack with an AK-47

If your workday commute regularly involves gunplay, BMW has got the vehicle for you.

The new armor-plated BMW X5 Security Plus will stand up to an AK-47, according to a company news release. The base models of the sport activity vehicle are built at the BMW Manufacturing Co. plant in Spartanburg, then shipped to Mexico for the finishing touches.

"If somebody wants it, we send it," said BMW Manufacturing spokesman Bobby Hitt.

Billed as offering a “new level of comprehensive protection,” the BMW X5 Security Plus is designed to resist an attack with an AK-47. In addition to being made of glass specifically designed to resist bullets, windows on the vehicle, which is partially made in Spartanburg County, are made to resist attacks by clubs and crowbars.

In addition to the armor plating, the X5 Security Plus includes an intercom system that allows occupants to speak to someone outside the vehicle without having to open the doors or windows. Other features are a rearview camera and a sideview camera in the front bumper; and run-flat tires that allow the vehicle to safely travel more than 90 miles at 50 mph. It also features thicker, enhanced bulletproof glass that the company says protects passengers from "attack using clubs, crowbars, etc."

A 4.8-liter V8 engine powers the X5 Security Plus. It's not faster than a speeding bullet, but it will go from 0 to 60 in 8.2 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to about 110 mph.

The company said it is the first mass producer to build a vehicle with Class 6 bullet resistance - meaning it can fend off shots from an AK-47 assault rifle.

Hitt said the armor plating and security features are "not your typical consumer option."

"There are some people in the world who need that," Hitt said. "Generally you'll find it with executives and political leaders."

Lloyd Steeves, sales manager at Century BMW in Greenville, said he hasn't gotten any orders yet for the security package.

"We don't get much call for those vehicles around here," he said. "We do live in a pretty safe area."