Aston Martin starts production of new sports car in Gaydon

WARWICKSHIRE sports car manufacturer Aston Martin has launched production of its new DB11 model for UK customers.

The car is an important one for the Gaydon business as it is the first core car launched under the firm’s six-year ‘Second Century Plan’.  

First deliveries to customers is expected to start next month (October).

Dr Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and CEO, is so confident in the car that he has agreed to personally assure the quality by inspecting the first 1,000 models produced.

He said: “It’s an exciting moment for the entire company when the first car of a new model goes into production. The DB11 is a special car and it heralds the start of a new and exciting era for Aston Martin.”

The new DB11 is the first in a line of seven new models to be launched over the next seven years, in line with the ‘Second Century Plan’.

The DB11 has received rave reviews since its launch at the Geneva Motor Show in March and to date, over 3,000 orders have been placed.

The car will be built at Gaydon, leaving the company free to concentrate on the production of its new crossover vehicle at its new plant in Wales.

Aston Martin was one of eight British manufacturers taking part in an event in Paris, ahead of the city’s motor show, showcasing the quality and diversity of the British automotive industry.

British firms line up their products before the start of the Paris Motor Show Posing next to the Eiffel Tower, the firm lined up alongside vehicles from MINI, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover, McLaren, Nissan, Toyota and Vauxhall.

Car manufacturing achieved a 10-year high last year and British-built cars have never been so popular, with a record 1.2 million cars exported to more than 100 countries. Already in the first eight months of 2016, that total looks set to be beaten this year, with exports reaching almost 900,000 vehicles – 13% ahead of the same period in 2015.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said: “The UK automotive industry is respected globally for its rich heritage, iconic brands and engineering excellence.

“More than £10bn of investment has gone into new facilities and models over the past five years and we’re proud to see so many rival brands coming together to promote the strengths of UK Automotive ahead of a key international motor show.

“The future success of this sector will hinge upon the ability of the UK to maintain the business and trading conditions that make the sector so competitive globally.”

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