2018 Aston Martin DBX Prototype

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DBX: PROTOTYPE OF ASTON MARTIN'S FIRST SUV BEGINS TESTING

•Name of Aston Martin's first SÚV officially confirmed as DBX
•Prototype testing has commenced with DBX tackling Welsh Rally stage
•Extensive test programme will encompass some of the world's harshest environments
•DBX programme on schedule for product launch in Q4 2019

14 November 2018, Gaydon, England: Aston Martin has made a significant and symbolic stride towards the luxury brand's first SÚV - now officially confirmed as being named DBX - with the first development prototype being put through its paces along a demanding Welsh Rally stage in the hands of the company's Chief Engineer, Matt Becker.

This first test for DBX signifies the start of an extensive testing programme. One that has begun in Wales, as a nod to Aston Martins' new St Athan production facility in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Though simulation is an essential part of DBX's early development phase, this first prototype drive in Wales signifies the start of 'real world' testing, in which the SÚV will be subjected to a punishing regime that will ultimately see development prototypes of the all-new machine tackle some of the world's harshest environments, from the frozen Arctic and scorching deserts of the Middle East to high Alpine passes and the high-speed demands of the German autobahnen and Nürburgring Nordschleife.

The unique nature of DBX in the Aston Martin range means it requires a dedicated test programme; one that features new processes, procedures and standards that reflect its all-purpose role. So, while it will perform with the verve and poise of a true Aston Martin, its dynamic envelope has to extend into areas previously off-limits to the marque's sporting roots. Naturally this includes impressive multi-terrain and towing capabilities as befits a state-of-the-art SÚV.

Speaking of his drive in the DBX development prototype, Aston Martin Chief Engineer, Matt Becker, said: 'We have already developed and tuned DBX in the driving simulator, which has enabled us to make excellent progress in advance of the first physical prototype cars being available. Still, it's always a big day when you get to put the first actual miles on an early prototype and I'm delighted with the near perfect correlation between the simulator and this prototype. As an engineer, it's genuinely exciting to get a feel for the car you're working to create. DBX is a very different kind of Aston Martin, but we will be testing it in all conditions and across all terrains to ensure it delivers a driving experience worthy of the wings badge'

DBX is scheduled to be unveiled in the last quarter of 2019 and will be built at Aston Martin Lagonda's St Athan facility; a state-of-the-art luxury manufacturing plant that will ultimately become the 'Home of Electrification' when the marque's fully-EV models enter production.

Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group Chief Executive Officer, Andy Palmer said: 'Seeing a DBX development prototype in action is a momentous chapter in the story of our first SÚV, for it is the moment it really comes alive. DBX is so much more than 'just' an SÚV; it will be the first model built at our brand-new facility in St Athan. As such, it is very much the start of a bold new era in the company's long history.'

About Aston Martin Lagonda:

Aston Martin Lagonda is a luxury automotive group focused on the creation of exclusive cars and SÚVs. The iconic Aston Martin brand fuses the latest technology, exceptional hand craftsmanship and timeless design to produce models including the DB11, Rapide S, DBS Superleggera, Vantage and Vanquish Zagato. The Lagonda brand will relaunch in 2021 as the world's first luxury electric vehicle company. Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates and exports cars which are sold in 53 countries around the world.

Lagonda was founded in 1904 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown. Únder the leadership of Dr Andy Palmer and a new management team, the Group launched its Second Century Plan in 2015 to deliver sustainable long-term growth. The plan is underpinned by the introduction of seven new models including the DB11, new Vantage, DBS Superleggera and an SÚV, as well as the development of a new manufacturing centre in St Athan, Wales.

Source - Aston Martin