9 July 2020, St Athan, Wales: Just over four years since Aston Martin announced its investment in a brand new manufacturing facility at St Athan in Wales, the first Aston Martin to be u201cMade in Walesu201d has been driven off the production line.
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The culmination of an extensive development programme that began with virtual development stretching back to 2015 and physical testing in Wales in 2018, DBX signals a new era in Aston Martinu2019s pursuit to deliver exceptional performance, style and usability in a segment previously unexplored by the world-famous manufacturer. Bringing both the versatility and indulgence expected of a luxury SUV with sports car levels of dynamic performance, DBX sets a bold new standard in this sector.
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With its all-wheel drive system, DBX is a car that will allow the company to increase its presence in markets where perhaps the weather or terrain is less than conducive to rear-wheel drive sports cars. The clear emphasis on a spacious and luxurious cabin u2013 whether seated in the front or back u2013 will also allow Aston Martin to better reach customers who prefer to be driven rather than drive.
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Aston Martin Interim Chief Operating Officer, Keith Stanton, said: u201cIt is a real privilege to be here today to witness the completion of the first production Aston Martin DBX. Iu2019m extremely proud of the Aston Martin team who have worked so hard to transform this ex-Ministry of Defence site into a world-class car manufacturing facility, to now be producing cars, it is testament to the resilience and fortitude of everyone at Aston Martin.u00a0 It is an honour to see the first DBX come off the line and my only regret is that everyone who works for this incredible brand canu2019t be here to witness it.u201d
The DBX is a true Aston Martin; it captures the very spirit of the brand as a beautiful hand-built, yet technologically advanced car. With around 80% of production expected to be exported and sold overseas, it is an important model for Aston Martin and a clear illustration of the strength of British manufacturing capabilities.
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Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Executive Vice President & Chief Creative Officer, who was at St Athan to witness the completion of the first SUV designed by his team, said: u201cWe are incredibly proud of our first SUV, which is as much of an Aston Martin as any one of our sports cars. From my design team to the engineers, the vehicle dynamics team and all the experts who hand-craft this beautiful car, here at St Athan, the DBX has become the car that will drive Aston Martin into a bold new era.u201d
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Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said: u201cThis is a historic moment for Aston Martin and for Wales. It is also a huge win for the Welsh Governmentu2019s can-do attitude.
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u201cThe DBX is an exceptional vehicle from one of the worldu2019s most luxury car brands, and it will be central to this iconic companyu2019s growth plan and ambitions for the future.
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u201cI could not be more proud to see this fantastic SUV being made in Wales and rolling off the production line. It also speaks volumes for the dedication and skills of the world class work force we have right here in Wales.u201d
First deliveries of the DBX to customers start later this month, as planned.
