In 2014 the TUNE IT! SAFE! initiative of the German tuning association VDAT celebrated its 10th anniversary. Since 2004 it has presented a special police concept car every year that meets the expectations of tuning fans as well as the highest safety standards. Backed by the German Federal Ministry of Transport, the campaign car was converted for the fourth time under the lead of BMW specialist AC Schnitzer, this time based on a BMW X4 20i.
Police candidates have to pass a performance test, and so did the X4. The AC Schnitzer upgrade raised output from 184 to 245 hp. With top speed limited to 212 km/h, it still reached 100 km/h from rest in 6.7 seconds and needed just 17.5 seconds from 80 to 180 km/h in a longer pursuit. AC Schnitzer engine cosmetics marked the work under the bonnet, and a silencer with two chrome Sport tailpipes on each side sat neatly in the rear diffuser.
The AC Schnitzer suspension spring kit was tested on the Nürburgring Nordschleife and on public roads. AC Schnitzer Type V lightweight forged wheels in anthracite put the power down. Aerodynamic parts from Aachen, front spoiler elements and a rear diffuser for cars with M Sport package plus carbon mirror covers, gave the X4 a purposeful look. For warning other road users, Hella supplied the police RTK 7 signal system and flashing beacons.
Inside, aluminium pedals and footrest, the Black Line handbrake grip, a keyholder and velour mats finished the cabin. On the road the concept car could only be driven by the police, yet it showed what safe tuning can offer private drivers too. It brought together a large part of the AC Schnitzer programme, and every component on the car was homologated.
Key facts
- Output raised from 184 to 245 hp
- 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds
- 80 to 180 km/h in 17.5 seconds
- Top speed limited to 212 km/h
- Type V lightweight forged wheels in anthracite
- AC Schnitzer's fourth TUNE IT! SAFE! car
