Aston Martin counts on the DB11 to survive

The new DB11 is the first of a new breed of cars which Aston Martin is counting on to survive in the next decade. 

Next will be the new Vantage in 2018 to replace Vanquish and the DBX in 2019 as the first sport utility from the company. 
The DBX will be built in a new factory in Wales alongside the Lagonda which will be relaunched. 
The company plans to double its 2007 best ever production figure of 7,000 cars.
The new DB11 was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this year. 
The first product launched under the company’s ‘Second Century’ plan, DB11 is the bold new figurehead of the ‘DB’ bloodline and an authentic and dynamic GT in the best Aston Martin tradition.
There is a lot riding on the DB11 after the company received 500 million pounds sterling from its Italian and Kuwaiti investors in addition to 200 million pounds sterling finance from London investors.
The DB11 showcases a fresh and distinctive design language, pioneering aerodynamics and is powered by a potent new in-house designed 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. 
Built upon a new lighter, stronger, and more space efficient bonded aluminum structure, DB11 is the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history. 
As such, it is the most significant new Aston Martin since the introduction of the DB9 in 2003.
Aston Martin CEO, Dr. Andy Palmer, said he aspires to make the most beautiful cars in the world. 
He adds “DB11 is the absolute embodiment of what an Aston Martin should be and we have worked tirelessly to ensure that DB11 combines exceptional design with the latest technology throughout. A brand new bonded aluminum platform, clever aerodynamics, a new characterful twin-turbo V12 and class-leading infotainment systems are just a few aspects which make this the sports car that will proudly spearhead Aston Martin’s second century plan.”
Heralding a new design era for Aston Martin, DB11 is the latest landmark in a remarkable aesthetic journey; from the DB2/4, DB5 and, most recently, the DB10 developed specifically for James Bond. 
DB11 re-imagines the relationship between form and function with a series of fresh design signatures. 
Foremost among these are the front-hinging clamshell bonnet distinctive LED headlights and accentuated lines of the Aston Martin grille. 
The profile is equally dramatic flowing uninterrupted from A-pillar to C-pillar. 
The clean lines continue at the rear, with a sloping deck-lid that smoothly blends into boldly sculpted tail-lights to create a new and unmistakable graphic.

Turbo power
Like every Aston Martin, the heart of the DB11 is found beneath the bonnet, though unlike any Aston Martin before it, the DB11’s heart is a 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12. 
Designed in-house this new engine develops 608PS (600bhp) and 700Nm of torque, making DB11 the most powerful production DB model ever. It has a top speed of 200mph and a 0-62mph time of just 3.9 seconds. Thanks to intelligent bank activation and stop-start technology that potency is matched by greatly improved efficiency.
To exploit the advantages of its new body structure and harness the immense performance of the new twin-turbo V12 engine, the DB11’s chassis, suspension, steering and electronics have been re-imagined  and key new technologies embraced. 
Multiple driver-selectable dynamic modes — GT, Sport and Sport Plus — progressively intensify the response of the engine while 8-speed automatic ZF transmission together with the new electric power steering and Torque Vectoring by braking increases the firmness of the adaptive damping for a greater agility. 

Refined technology 
The DB11 combines the very latest technology developed in conjunction with technical partner, Daimler AG, with the finest quality and hand craftsmanship.
Using a full-color 12” TFT LCD display, the all-new instrument cluster presents primary vehicle information with absolute clarity, while a second, centrally-mounted 8” TFT screen is dedicated to infotainment. 
Controlled via an intuitive rotary control, with an optional touchpad offering character recognition, multi-touch and gesture support, the new satellite navigation and audio system have never been more effective, sounded better or been easier to operate. 
A newly implemented auto-park assist feature and 360-degree birds-eye view camera helps provide safe maneuvering at slow speeds and is also operated via the car’s infotainment system. 
With wider door apertures, significantly increased occupant space — especially head and legroom in the rear — fully integrated rear ISOFIX mounting points for a pair of child seats plus a luggage compartment large enough to accommodate two large holdalls plus carry-on baggage, the DB11 is a genuine Grand Tourer. 
Thanks to an inspiring palette of colors and a vast array of detailing options, its interior can be perfectly in-tune with unique personal styles. From calming, carefully coordinated tones to sharp contrasts in hue and texture, the choices are virtually limitless. Nexus quilting and Celestial perforation add layers of complexity and intrigue, while ornate leatherwork, such as intricate brogue detailing, creates areas of visual and tactile delight.
The verdict by those who have tested the car is that it has “jet-fighter performance but the handling and seat comfort requires a bit more work.”
Dr. Andy Palmer said: “This is not only the most important car that Aston Martin has launched in recent history, but also in its 103-year existence. The DB11 rightfully places Aston Martin once again as a leading brand in the luxury automotive market”. 
The new DB11 is priced at $212,000 in the US and should be in the markets during the fourth quarter of 2016.

Source: Arab News