WARWICKSHIRE: The first Aston Martin creation under the “Second Century” plan devised by its new CEO Andy Palmer is a masterpiece that promises to transform the company’s fortunes.
During a recent visit to Aston Martin’s headquarters at Gaydon, it became clear that the current management and workforce are focused on the plan at hand. Palmer sums up his vision by saying: “We aspire to make the most beautiful cars in the world.”
He also describes the DB11 as the most important car Aston Martin has launched in its 103-year existence. A lot of the company’s future ambitions depend on the success of the Aston Martin DB11.
It is graceful to look at and exhilarating to drive. Marek Reichman, vice president, and chief designer, explained the intricate lines and proportions of the DB11 including the principle of “one-third to two-thirds” ratio he applies to many parts of the design. One clever aspect of the design is the Aeroblade concept of channeling airflow through side C-pillar vents to create a virtual spoiler that reduces rear-end lift and stabilizes the car at high speeds.
The DB11 is a successor to the DB9 and is heavily influenced by the DB10, which is not available on the market. Only 10 units of the DB10 were created for the latest James Bond movie, “Spectre,” and only one was sold at auction for charity.
There are fresh design signatures for the DB11 including the front-hinging clamshell bonnet, distinctive LED headlights and accentuated lines of the grille.
A new twin-turbo 5.2-liter V12 engine powers the DB11 to the tune of 600-brake horsepower (bhp) and 700 Newton meter (Nm) of torque. The DB11 sprints to 100km per hour in 3.9 seconds. Its top speed is 200 miles per hour.
The actual driving experience is engaging and enjoyable with precise handling in all three modes: GT, Sport and Sport plus. The eight-speed ZF automatic transmission adds to smooth acceleration. The new electric power steering (EPS) is firm and enhances the driver’s feel of the road. The DB11 is capable of soft rides on most road surfaces and agility at high speed and in cornering.
The centrally-mounted 8-inch TFT screen is dedicated to infotainment and is controlled via a rotary control, with an optional touchpad offering character recognition and multi-touch and gesture support.
The new satellite navigation system is adequate but needs modern features such as touchscreen operation and more trip information on the screen. However, the DB11 does contain some state-of-the-art technology such as a newly implemented auto-park assist feature and a 360-degree birds-eye view camera, which helps safe maneuvering at slow speeds and is also operated via the car’s infotainment system.
Despite the low profile of the DB11, a tall person has no difficulty getting into and out of the car. Door apertures are wider than in previous models and there is more space inside the car for the two front-seat occupants.
While demand for the “Q” personal commissioning by Aston Martin global clients is about 10 percent, in the Middle East this ratio is about 60 percent, according to company sources. Although Aston Martin sales in the region are about 200 cars, most of these vehicles are high-end expensive models. Almost a quarter of the ultra-exclusive “One-77” models are sold in the region. There is a huge potential to increase sales regionally but at present owning an Aston Martin in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is a rare and exclusive experience.
Matthew Bennet, director of VIP and Q sales, said the company can cater for almost all demands by customers and enters into dialogue with them about how best to satisfy their requirements. He is proud of the excellence and attention to details given to every Aston Martin car and especially those with the Q treatment.
The DB11 is now available in the region.
DB11: The car vital for Aston Martin’s future
DB11: The car vital for Aston Martin’s future
