Aston Martin is launching special edition versions of its range-topping DBS and V12 Vantage models called the Carbon Black.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Aston Martins get Carbon Black label
Aston Martin really has been dominating the headlines this week – first, by revealing official pictures of its Cygnet supermini, and now with the unveiling of special Carbon Black versions of its much-celebrated DBS and V12 Vantage grand tourers.
As both cars have "surpassed all sales expectations", Aston thought it would celebrate by giving them a lick of Carbon Black paint "especially formulated with a subtle metallic twist to create a deep rich patina". And we're not talking about some simple spray job here – each unit will receive 50 man-hours of hand painting, so owners can rest assured that their car is very special indeed.
Further highlights include the addition of lightweight carbon fibre and kevlar seats covered in hand-stitched Obsidian Black leather, piano black fascia trim, and gloss black 10-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels.
The Aston Martin Black Editions are available to order from the Aston Martin dealership network now, with first deliveries expected to take place in March 2010.
black for Aston Martin
Back to black for Aston Martin
THE colour has to be black if you want your new Aston Martin to be really special.
But an ordinary spray finish is hardly sufficient for the two extra-special models that have just been announced by the famous sports car firm.
Being launched to celebrate their success in the showrooms with standard paintwork, DBS and Vantage grand tourers are now available in a new finish called carbon black.
Needing an extra 50 man-hours of hand painting, the Black Edition models are expected to be available for delivery in March and will come with lightweight carbon fibre seats in black leather, piano black fascia trim and 10-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels - also finished in black.
'Sales of these cars have surpassed all expectations and we want to celebrate. We think the special editions add a typically understated flair,' said a spokesman.
Aston Martin Cygnet
Aston says the the Cygnet concept "represents a creative, environmentally conscious solution, being small, yet with presence – and highly fuel efficient, now combined with the prestige of Aston Martin's luxury brand ownership." All we can say is "wow:"
Aston is best known for producing the sports cars that secret agent James Bond drives in the 007 movies. Usually they are outfitted with machine guns and ejector seats. While Cygnet takes sharp turn for the brand, it could be the perfect car for a paunchy, middle-aged Bond, who long ago lost his license to kill and now works as a British bureaucrat.
Aston says work on the concept is ongoing and will continue into 2010 when it is hoped that it will become a production reality initially available to Aston Martin customers in the U.K. and Europe. No word about the USA.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
2010 Aston Martin Rapide Gets a U.K. Price of £139,950
Aston Martin has announced that the 6.0-liter V-12 Rapide will start at £139,950 in the U.K.–about $235K, in line with expectations when it hit the scene at the Frankfurt Motor Show. All things considered, it’s a pretty steep price for the premium sedan, but you didn’t expect to buy into an Aston cheaply, did you?
The Rapide is capable of 470 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. It makes the leap to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds and tops out at 188 mph. The Rapide puts a premium on comfort and style as much, if not more, than performance.
Aston Martin Rapide sedan priced above 007's pay grade
Buy a new Aston Martin Rapide four-door sports car, which will go on sale next spring, and get $50 back. The price of the Rapide will start from $199,950 in the U.S., Aston announced over the weekend. For the money, you'll get a lot of standard equipment, like a Bang & Olufsen audio system, heated seats with memory adjustment, dual cast brakes and an adaptive damping system.
The Rapide is Aston Martin's first great attempt at fusing a four-door sedan with a sports car -- just like the new Porsche Panamera. You know, imagine if James Bond got married, settled down and still wanted to have fond memories of the car he used to escape motorcycles with built-in machine guns -- yet plenty of room for the kids. The Rapide will be the first sports car to be hand-built at the Aston Martin Rapide Plant in Graz, Austria, which tries to replicate the quality levels of Aston's traditional English plant in Gaydon.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Aston Martin brings four-door Rapide
Four doors, four seats, lithe and sleek as an Olympic swimmer. And oh, yeah, $199,950. That's the price Aston Martin released yesterday after we attended a special media and Aston Martin owner introduction December 3 at the Chelsea Art Museum in Manhattan when we got our first look at the Rapide in the aluminum and up close.
Some say the Aston Martin Rapide is a car that shouldn't have been built. There has never before been a four-door Aston Martin. Yet there it is. And we say the naysayers are wrong. The Aston Martin is sweet as a Georgia peach but without the fuzz.
We say that without driving it or even hearing it run. No doubt the Chelsea Art Museum folks would probably object to our spinning donuts in the exhibit hall. And anyway, there are all those support columns in the way.
However, the Aston Martin Rapide is based on the same platform as the DB9. Aston Martin calls it Vertical / Horizontal architecture, using bonded rather than welded aluminum per aerospace industry practices. The engine is the familiar (to the AM devotee at least) 6.0-liter V-12, rated at 470 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 443 lb-ft of torque at 5000, and mounted front mid-ship, per other Aston Martins. Transmission is a six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic, with PRND buttons on the dash and paddle shifting. With an increase in curb weight of only 420 lbs over the DB9, the resultant 0-60 time, as Aston Martin would say, is a mere 5.1 seconds.
The suspension of the Aston Martin Rapide is the familiar (again) double wishbone front and rear with adaptive shock absorbers for a smooth ride with sports car handling. Which indeed is what Aston Martin calls the Rapide, a four-door sports car.
We have to take them at their word about the sports car part, though we have little cause to doubt it. What aroused our curiosity, at least for the evening, was how well the Aston Martin Rapide succeeded aesthetically and how well it functioned as a four-door, four-passenger vehicle.
Those with very long memories will remember the Jaguar E-type 2+2 as a good car gone bad via a good idea that should not have been: the E-type 2+2 had a swollen hunchback that ruined the E-type's essential proportions. Although the Aston Martin Rapide retains the front doors--the only doors--of the Aston Martin DB9, and also its hood, the remainder of the Rapide is entirely new. We find it impressive that any body part had been able to be carried over. The Rapide's contours look entirely fresh to our Philistine eyes.
Aston Martin Rapide Pays a Visit
The Aston Martin Rapide, which goes on sale next year for around $200,000 in the United States.
Update | 4:18 p.m.
Aston Martin brought the first (and only) production configuration version of its Rapide four-door sports car to Manhattan last night. The car was first shown at the the Frankfurt auto show and goes on sale next year.
The 470-horsepower car was displayed in a gray-blue metallic paint amid huge abstract paintings at the Chelsea Art Museum. It arrived in the company of Marek Reichman, Aston’s chief designer.
“I think of a racehorse,” he said discussing the car’s design. “You can sense the power of the horse even when it is still. But when it starts to move you see the play of highlights and muscles.”
Photographs do not do the Rapide justice. There are many subtle lines and planes to its body. A taut “bone” line runs from the side vent and a gentle curve rises over the front fenders. Gray is a traditional Aston color, and the bright blue added to it on this car brings out the subtlety of the body shape. Two lovely greens are among the choices of body colors; a light walnut covers the information processing center.
Aston Martin is taking orders for the $199,950 car. The company said it planned to sell about 2,000 units in its first year, of which between 25 percent to 33 percent will come to North America. Few options are available. A 1,000-watt, 15-speaker Bang and Olafsen audio system is standard.
The rear seats are heated and cooled. Headroom is generous, but legroom more limited: the average man’s knees will necessarily be angled, not comfortably. And slipping in and out of the seats is not a smooth process despite the clever mechanics of what the company calls “swan doors.”
One option is a set of screens for the rear of the front seats; their side views constricted, the rear passengers will appreciate them. This is in contrast with Porsche’s design of the Panamera, whose rear-seating area is more generous.
“You seem to have chosen grace over space,” someone in the museum observed, and Mr. Reichman agreed. “Every millimeter was considered very carefully,” he said.
Aston Martin Rapide to Carry a 139,950 GBP ($232,282) Price Tag in U.K.
Aston Martin has priced its upcoming Rapide four-door sports car at 139,950 GBP ($232,282) for the domestic British market, the automaker revealed today. That's 44,652 GBP ($74,111) more than a standard U.K.-spec Porsche Panamera Turbo, which carries a base price of 95,298 GBP ($158,170). These amounts use today's exchange rates and may not reflect the actual U.S. pricetag.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Aston Martin V12 Vantage sports car
Aston Martin will present the V12 Vantage Fastest and most agile Vantage ever; ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range at the Geneva motor show.The V12 Vantage will feature a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 kp/h) time of 4.2 seconds.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
2010 Aston Martin Rapide Detailed Specification and Pictures
Aston Martin will unveil one of the most eagerly awaited cars of 2009 at the 63rd Frankfurt Motorshow. The elegant Rapide, functional yet luxurious, provides space for up to four adults combined with an engaging driving experience synonymous with all Aston Martins.
As the marque's first production four-door sports car, Rapide encapsulates core values of Power, Beauty and Soul; four ‘swan wing' doors provide access to cosseting sports seats both front and rear bestowing occupants with ample accommodation. A 301 litre luggage compartment affords generous space for belongings for all four passengers whether they be sports bags or indeed, sets of skis, creating an Aston Martin which can be enjoyed on any occasion, anytime, anywhere.
Rapide's rear environment has been intelligently packaged to create a space where passengers feel a part of the driving experience with clear views to the front and sides. Comfort and support is supplied in the form of two hand trimmed individual seats and a personal face-level heating and air conditioning system. Aiding the practicalities of everyday use, the luggage compartment features a movable bulkhead to permit access from the rear cabin while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button to create a flat loading space increasing the luggage compartment from 301 litres to 750 litres.
At the heart of every Aston Martin lies an evocative engine providing effortless power and torque: Rapide features a hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power being delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) peak torque at 5000 rpm. A specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission features as standard, allowing the driver to change gear automatically or manually via the steering column-mounted magnesium paddles.
First shown in 2006 in concept form at the Detroit Auto Show, the Rapide project received an immediate green light from Aston Martin's new shareholders in mid 2007 following the sale of the marque by the Ford Motor Company. In a little over two years, Aston Martin's design and engineering team have delivered a new car from the ground up. Rapide has been developed from the ‘V/H Architecture' platform which already forms the backbone to Aston Martin's critically acclaimed line-up: the DBS, DB9 and Vantage range.
Chief Executive, Dr. Ulrich Bez said: "Rapide is the culmination of the Aston Martin range of sports cars, a car that seals the revival of a truly admired marque. There is now an Aston Martin for every taste and for every use.
"With Rapide, the entire family can enjoy their Aston Martin together in unison, in an invigorating yet comfortable environment, sitting low, with plenty of visibility from every seat and with new levels of comfort, refinement and entertainment."
Director of Design, Marek Reichman who led the in-house design team which penned the Rapide said: "Like a race horse standing still, you can see its power and elegance, the shape of Rapide's rear haunches are muscular conveying the power that lies beneath while its low stance produces a powerful look.
"There is a real sense of proportion with this car, akin to a tailored suit; the new double grill gives more presence on the road while the iconic signature side strake has been lengthened through to the rear doors to enhance its lateral proportions in a subtle, yet elegant way. The car's purity makes it look right from every angle."
First deliveries of the Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin's 125 strong dealership network. Pricing will be confirmed at the Frankfurt Show.
Aston Martin Rapide: Specification
Body
Four door body style with 4 individual seats.
Extruded bonded aluminium VH body structure
Aluminium, magnesium alloy and composite body
Extruded aluminium door side impact beams
Single bi-xenon headlamps with integrated LED side lights and direction indicators
LED rear lamps and side repeaters
Engine
All alloy quad overhead cam 48 valve 5935cc V12
Front mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive
Fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves
Compression ratio 10.9:1
Max Power 350 kW (470 bhp / 477 PS) at 6000 rpm
Max Torque 600 Nm (443 lb ft) at 5000 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds; 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.3 seconds
Max Speed 188 mph (303 km/h) (predicted)
Transmission
Rear mid-mounted ‘Touchtronic 2' six-speed gearbox with electronic shift-by-wire control system
Alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft
Limited slip differential
Final Drive Ratio 3.46:1
Steering
Rack and pinion, Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering, 3.0 turns lock-to-lock
Column tilt and reach adjustment.
Wheels & tyres
20" alloy wheels
Front Bridgestone Potenza 245/40 R20
Rear Bridgestone Potenza 295/35 R20
Suspension
Front Independent double wishbone incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
Rear Independent double wishbones with anti- squat and anti-lift geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
Adaptive Damping System (ADS)
Brakes
Front Dual cast brake discs 390mm diameter with six piston calipers
Rear Dual cast brake discs 360mm diameter with four piston calipers
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
Traction Control
Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
Positive Torque Control (PTC)
Electronic Park Brake (EPB)
Dimensions
Length 5019 mm (197.6")
Width (including mirrors) 2140 mm (84.3")
Height 1360 mm (53.5")
Fuel Capacity 90.5 litres
Kerb Weight 1950 kg (target) (4299 lb)
Interior
Full grain leather interior
Walnut facia trim
Iridium Silver centre console outer finish and Graphite inner finish
Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror
Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror with garage door opener (USA and Canada only)1
Electrically operated front seats
Memory front seats and exterior mirrors (three positions)
Dual stage driver and passenger front airbags
Front occupant side airbags
Head protection airbags for front and rear occupants
Heated front and rear seats
Heated rear screen
Automatic front and rear temperature control
Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) displays
LED map lamps and ambient lighting
Trip computer
Cruise control
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) satellite navigation system1,2
Bluetooth telephone preparation1
Satellite radio system (USA only)
Powerfold exterior mirrors
Front and rear parking sensors
Tyre pressure monitoring1
Alarm and immobiliser
Remote-control central door locking and boot release
Battery conditioner
Tracking device (UK only)3
Boot mounted umbrella
In Car Entertainment
1000 W Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system with ICEpower® technology
Integrated Apple iPod® connector4
USB connector with Waveform Audio Format (WAF), Windows Media Player (WMA) and MPEG (MP3) audio file compatibility
3.5 mm auxiliary input socket
Options
Cooled front and rear seats
Twin screen rear seat entertainment system with 6-disc DVD player, auxiliary input, wireless headphones and remote control
Alternative facia trim finishes - Mahogany, Piano Black, Bamboo, Tamo Ash, Birds Eye Maple, Olive Ash Burl, Double Apex Alloy
Matching wood door trim
Colour-keyed steering wheel
Second glass key
Magnum silver rear lamp infills
Delete model badging
Delete protective tape
20" alloy wheels with graphite finish
20" alloy wheels with polished finish
Alternative brake calliper finish - black, red, silver
Personalised sill plaques
Auto dimming interior rear view mirror with garage door opener (Europe only)
Alarm upgrade (volumetric and tilt sensor)
Tracking device1,3
First aid kit
Ashtray and Cigar Lighter
1 Not available in all markets
2 Includes Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC) in Continental Europe
3 Complies with UK Thatcham Category 5 requirements. Excludes subscription. Standard in UK
4 iPod® is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the US and other countries
Aston Martin Rapide: Design
Instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin, the Rapide assumes its extra doors gracefully to visually remain every bit a sporting coupe as its sister models. The four ‘swan wing' doors open up and out at 12 degrees avoiding scuffs and scratches when parked next to a raised walkway, while serving the dual purpose of allowing easier access to the front and rear cabin. The opening angle of the doors has been increased to 70 degrees to allow easy ingress and egress. Front on, the new polished alloy upper and lower grill adorn the Rapide to give it presence on the road while the new front lights house a single lens bi-xenon headlight with innovative light tube sidelights subtly distinguishing the Rapide to other road users.
Adding to the sense of proportion, Rapide's low roof line combined with uniquely styled 20" wheels contribute to its sporting stance, and the iconic side strake, housing the side LED indicators is elongated to meet the rear doors. The pillarless side glass helps convey Rapide's coupe lines. The front and rear window choreography has been designed to permit the absence of a visible B-pillar to unclutter the curve line of the doors from front to back creating a seamless glass to glass window frame. Contributing to Rapide's interior comfort, the side glass will rise up further into the window seal when the car is driven at speed cancelling out wind noise and the glass is laminated to improve noise insulation.
Strong rear haunches hint at the power that lies beneath creating the classic Aston Martin sports car silhouette. The wing mirrors have been specifically designed to emerge from the door giving the driver optimum visibility through the front corner glass. At the rear, a practical tailgate provides access to the 301 litre luggage space flanked by the signature Aston Martin ‘C' shaped tail lamps each housing 360 LEDs.
Echoing the beauty of the exterior, Rapide's interior welcomes all occupants to a exquisitely hand crafted and spacious cabin. To the front, the familiar dashboard and controls are ergonomically designed to provide the driver with all the information needed to extract the very best from the car. The Rapide boasts a new front seat design giving a sporting feel supporting the occupant when driving spiritedly and providing high levels of comfort during more leisurely journeys. The double-edge stitch design enhances the visual impact of the seat alluding to the attention to detail and hand craftsmanship. Heated and optional cooled seats feature with two centrally-mounted rotational dials, one at the front and one at the rear offering fingertip control to all passengers.
Both rear passengers are treated to their own individual heating and air conditioning operated independently from the front system. Controlled by a singular rotary dial in front of a digital display, two directional air vents channel air to the upper body serving to heat or cool occupants quickly and effectively while air is also channelled separately to the foot wells. The rear heating and air conditioning can also be controlled via the rotary dial located between the front seats giving the driver full control.
Aston Martin engineers chose to integrate an electronic park brake into Rapide saving space to the side of the seat and creating an uncluttered centre console. A revised BluetoothTM microphone is located above the driver's head improving sound pick-up from the driver's voice to give crystal clear conversations.
The long swooping front centre console continues all the way through to the rear seamlessly linking the front environment to the rear, thus creating a sense of involvement for the rear passengers. Large storage binnacles set between both the front and rear seats provide ample space to store CDs, games and keep valuables from view.
Two individually appointed sports seats form the rear environment of the Rapide. Aston Martin's design and engineering team paid special attention to creating a space that is cosseting giving both passengers an equally sporting feel to that of the driver while also providing passengers as much forward and side visibility as possible. Forward visibility has been optimised through intelligent profiling of the B-pillar and front seats to give occupants a clear view of the road ahead. Despite the low sleek coupe appearance, adequate leg and head room accommodates adults and children in comfort.
Rear passengers can benefit from the optional Aston Martin rear entertainment system; two LCD screens are seamlessly integrated into the back of the front seat headrests optimally positioned at eye level. A six DVD multi-changer, integrated into the boot compartment, provides hours of entertainment with sound being delivered via wireless headphones or through the standard Bang & Olufsen Besound Rapide audio system, so however long the journey, passengers will be treated to a rich audio-visual experience. Should the passengers have different taste in entertainment whether it be a DVD, a games device or simply listening to an MP3 player; the screens can be operated independently combined with wireless headphones. A infra-red remote control is supplied to control the video and sound from the comfort of the seat.
Continuing the successful brand partnership between Bang & Olufsen and Aston Martin who share similar values in design and craftsmanship; Rapide is fitted as standard with the 1000 W BeoSound Rapide - a bespoke sound system tailored to the Rapide. 15 speakers have been optimally located throughout the cabin to deliver the finest sound quality naturally associated with Bang & Olufsen. The famous Danish audio specialist's skilled Tonmeisters worked closely with Aston Martin's acoustic engineers during the entire development of Rapide to create a soundstage that cannot be localised to any particular speaker and delivering notes that are precise to the instrument played or the vocal sung.
Turning on the BeoSound Rapide, the occupants are greeted with a sense of theatre as the two Acoustic Lenses rise silently from the dashboard.
Acoustic Lens Technology (ALT) enables a wide (180 degrees) horizontal dispersion of high frequencies. The technology prevents the loss of critical sound and gives listeners an improved sense of space. ALT allows sound to be focused within the car depending on who is inside. In Auto mode, Beosound Rapide uses sensors on the seatbelts to determine how many people are in the car and their location and will adjust the soundstage for the optimum sound experience. Manual override options feature for: Driver, (focus sound solely on the driver) Front (focus on two front passengers), Rear (two rear passengers) and All Round (all four passengers).
The speaker grills are formed from a single piece of aluminium and integrate seamlessly into Rapide's interior dispersing sound equally to all passengers. A microphone located behind the rear-view mirror continually monitors ambient noise to adjust volume settings to compensate. The result of this leading technology creates an unparalleled automotive audio experience.
The two rear seat-backs effortlessly fold flat at the touch of a button to produce an increased luggage area creating 750 litres of boot space (an additional 449 litres over when the seats are in the upright position). Well appointed, the boot space is hand-trimmed with a carpet floor and four iridium anodised runners and tread plates. Increasing the versatility of the rear luggage compartment a divider can be raised or lowered to create a separate area accessible from the back seats should rear passengers require access to their luggage during the journey.
For customers with young children, ISOFIXTM attachment points feature as standard and Aston Martin will be offering approved child seats specifically for the Rapide.
Protecting passengers in the event of an accident, a total of eight airbags are strategically located throughout the cabin giving peace of mind to all passengers in all driving conditions. Restraint sensors around the vehicle help Rapide decide not only which airbag to deploy but also how aggressively depending on the severity of impact. Seatbelt pretensioners are fitted to both front and rear seats and rear passengers are protected with individual head protection airbags ensuring that Rapide is one of the safest sports cars on the road.
The Rapide is built in a new state-of-the-art 23,000 sq. metre manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria. Utilising the same modern technology as the global headquarters in Gaydon, England and combining hand-craftsmanship; the Rapide is hand built to Aston Martin's usual exacting standards. Customers will be able to visit the facility as part of the Aston Martin experience where specialists are able to guide and help customers specify their Rapide with over 2.5 million different combinations of paint, options and finishes available from Aston Martin's core options list.
Aston Martin Rapide: Performance
Like all Aston Martins, the Rapide has undergone the marque's strict and rigorous testing programme to ensure the required levels of quality, durability, performance and dynamics are met. Around 50 prototypes were built all designed to be subjected to the very toughest tests. For example, hot weather testing took place in Death Valley, USA and Kuwait, Middle East exposing the car to temperatures in excess of 50 degrees Celsius, while cold weather assessments in Sweden and in a cold testing chamber saw prototypes subjected to -40 degrees Celsius. High speed testing was conducted at the famous Nardo proving ground in Italy, while dynamics were honed at the Nürburgring, Germany where prototypes were relentlessly run for 8,000 km on the Nordschleife to test all components pushing them to the very limits.
The Rapide is a sports car - a thoroughbred which can be enjoyed by four people in unison. Aston Martin engineers have spent thousands of hours tuning suspension, throttle maps, tyres, brakes and steering to create a car that, while practical, also provides a dynamically engaging drive. Despite the extra versatility, the low roof line, and therefore low centre of gravity, makes Rapide feel like an agile coupe.
Ian Minards, Product Development Director said: "We have learned so much with the development of the current Aston Martin range, and Rapide has really benefited from this knowledge. Our prototypes have been so close to production specification that we are able to really understand the car from very early on in the development process.
"Rapide is about the journey, and we always intended to combine the ethos of the DB9 and package it for up to four people in comfort but preserve the excitement of driving an Aston Martin sports car."
The front mid-mounted 6.0 litre V12 engine which sits at the heart of Rapide produces 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power being delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) and peak torque at 5000 rpm. The resultant 0-60 mph time is 5.1 seconds (0-100 km/h: 5.3 seconds). The engine designed and developed by Aston Martin engineers at Gaydon, England is hand built in a dedicated facility in Köln, Germany.
The use of lightweight materials has resulted in the Rapide's projected weight gaining only 190 kg over its DB9 sibling delivering a target kerb weight of 1950 kg. This figure is achieved through the use of Aston Martin's Vertical / Horizontal (V/H) architecture - a platform technology derived from the aerospace industry employing aluminium which is bonded rather than welded to create a lightweight and ultra-stiff chassis. Despite the Rapide being 290 mm longer than DB9, it was a key objective to maximise the structural rigidity accounting for the increased length in wheelbase. The Rapide's structure would require 28,000 Nm of force to be twisted through 1 degree. This torsional rigidity is a key element in delivering the excellent dynamic feel by optimising wheel to road contact and minimising vehicle shake and vibration.
Aside from the front doors and bonnet, all of Rapide's body panels are new. The front wings are formed from composite while all four doors and roof are pressed aluminium and the rear quarter panels are steel.
Ian Minards said: "Dynamically the Rapide feels every bit as agile as the DB9, I have personally experienced the car being driven at high speed on the Nürburgring, and was enormously impressed with its capabilities."
The standard six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission has been calibrated to ensure that the additional weight of Rapide has had a minimal impact on fuel economy, emissions and performance.
Derived from the same transaxle unit that was developed for the DB9, the system has been substantially re-tuned to accommodate driving and handling characteristics of the Rapide with a final drive ratio of 3.46:1.
System functionality is consistent with that on the DB9, with ‘Park', ‘Reverse', ‘Neutral' and ‘Drive' modes selected via facia mounted controls.
When in ‘Drive' mode, pulling either of the leather-trimmed magnesium alloy paddles mounted on the steering column will activate Touchtronic mode, enabling the driver to control gear shifts via the paddles. Touchtronic mode is also accessible directly on engine start-up. Alternatively, the ‘Drive' mode can be selected at any time by pressing the ‘D' control on the centre console, engaging a fully automatic mode which will select the most appropriate gear for the speed and driving conditions automatically.
The system also includes a ‘Sport' mode - activated by a button on the centre console - which engages a more aggressive gear shift strategy as gear changes feel sharper and more forceful, engine speed matching on downshifts is more aggressive and in full automatic mode, upshifts occur at higher speeds.
A new saddle-design fuel tank has been integrated to hold 90.5 litres enabling Rapide to deliver a range of over 300 miles without reducing the car's sporting dynamics and serves the dual purpose of a flat loading space in the luggage compartment.
Aston Martin Rapide: Control
As the culmination of the Aston Martin range, Aston Martin's engineers have gained much experience and learning from the development of the DBS, DB9 and Vantage range of sports cars - this wealth and breadth of experience has all been channelled into Rapide to produce a four door with unrivalled sports car characteristics. The basic ingredients have already been proven: the powerful engine, the lightweight yet stiff understructure, the honing in the toughest environments around the world and the exhaust note which is always evocative no matter which model. Applying these characteristics to Rapide alongside a car which is a practical four-door, was the engineers' greatest challenge to date. The result is a car that feels every bit a sports car as its siblings, yet provides versatility in a beautiful package.
With the six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic gearbox mounted to the rear of the car on the transaxle, the Rapide's weight balance is near perfect at: 51:49, contributing to its outstanding dynamics. This provides the driver with an engaging drive on twisty roads, and a refined, relaxed and effortless drive on motorways and main roads. The 20" wheels are clad with Bridgestone Potenza S001 (Front: 245/40 R20, Rear: 295/35 R20) but specifically for Rapide feature a taller side wall to help dial out vibration and contribute to a quieter cabin.
For the first time on an Aston Martin, Rapide features a dual cast brake system. The discs are made from two materials, cast iron and aluminium. The new technology provides dynamic advantages in the form of reduced unsprung mass with a brake that is 15-20% lighter than a standard cast iron brake. Using both cast iron and aluminium takes advantage of the heat resistance provided by cast iron and the weight saving properties of aluminium. In addition, greater braking performance, reduced corrosion, and less wear are all benefits associated with the Rapide dual cast brake system.
Rapide's brake system features a new braking module delivering more discreet interventions and provides improved functionality for existing features as well as the new Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), which provides assistance in emergency braking situations. The Hydraulic Brake Assist function identifies when the driver requires maximum braking performance, from the speed at which the brake pedal is depressed, and automatically boosts the brake pressure up to the ABS control threshold for as long as the driver keeps the brake pedal pressed down. As a result, stopping distances can be substantially reduced.
To take full advantage of its extremely rigid platform, the Rapide features Adaptive Damping System (ADS) first seen on the DBS which uses two separate valves to set the dampers to five different positions, allowing instant adjustment of the car's ride and handling characteristics. The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond instantly to different road conditions and driver inputs.
The Rapide's Adaptive Damping System perfectly captures the car's sporting character, ensuring that stiffer dampers are available for better handling and control when the car is being driven enthusiastically, without compromising ride comfort during ‘normal' driving conditions. A designated ‘Sport' mode automatically sets all dampers to their firmest positions, making it ideal for spirited driving.
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system has been specifically tuned for Rapide with emphasis on its sporting characteristics. A two-stage DSC system allows the driver to tailor the level of electronic intervention according to the type of driving. In default mode, the system is set to ‘on' which will limit any tyre slip in difficult conditions, and provide the maximum amount of security possible with out being intrusive. Holding the DSC button for 5 seconds will disengage the system completely, allowing a pure dynamic experience.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
2010 Aston Martin Rapide - Detail, Photo, Specs
Aston Martin will unveil one of the most eagerly awaited cars of 2009 at the 63rd Frankfurt Motorshow. The elegant Rapide, functional yet luxurious, provides space for up to four adults combined with an engaging driving experience synonymous with all Aston Martins.
As the marque's first production four-door sports car, Rapide encapsulates core values of Power, Beauty and Soul; four ‘swan wing' doors provide access to cosseting sports seats both front and rear bestowing occupants with ample accommodation. A 301 litre luggage compartment affords generous space for belongings for all four passengers whether they be sports bags or indeed, sets of skis, creating an Aston Martin which can be enjoyed on any occasion, anytime, anywhere.
Rapide's rear environment has been intelligently packaged to create a space where passengers feel a part of the driving experience with clear views to the front and sides. Comfort and support is supplied in the form of two hand trimmed individual seats and a personal face-level heating and air conditioning system. Aiding the practicalities of everyday use, the luggage compartment features a movable bulkhead to permit access from the rear cabin while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button to create a flat loading space increasing the luggage compartment from 301 litres to 750 litres.
At the heart of every Aston Martin lies an evocative engine providing effortless power and torque: Rapide features a hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power being delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) peak torque at 5000 rpm. A specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission features as standard, allowing the driver to change gear automatically or manually via the steering column-mounted magnesium paddles.
First shown in 2006 in concept form at the Detroit Auto Show, the Rapide project received an immediate green light from Aston Martin's new shareholders in mid 2007 following the sale of the marque by the Ford Motor Company. In a little over two years, Aston Martin's design and engineering team have delivered a new car from the ground up. Rapide has been developed from the ‘V/H Architecture' platform which already forms the backbone to Aston Martin's critically acclaimed line-up: the DBS, DB9 and Vantage range.
Chief Executive, Dr. Ulrich Bez said: "Rapide is the culmination of the Aston Martin range of sports cars, a car that seals the revival of a truly admired marque. There is now an Aston Martin for every taste and for every use.
"With Rapide, the entire family can enjoy their Aston Martin together in unison, in an invigorating yet comfortable environment, sitting low, with plenty of visibility from every seat and with new levels of comfort, refinement and entertainment."
Director of Design, Marek Reichman who led the in-house design team which penned the Rapide said: "Like a race horse standing still, you can see its power and elegance, the shape of Rapide's rear haunches are muscular conveying the power that lies beneath while its low stance produces a powerful look.
"There is a real sense of proportion with this car, akin to a tailored suit; the new double grill gives more presence on the road while the iconic signature side strake has been lengthened through to the rear doors to enhance its lateral proportions in a subtle, yet elegant way. The car's purity makes it look right from every angle."
First deliveries of the Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin's 125 strong dealership network. Pricing will be confirmed at the Frankfurt Show.
Aston Martin Rapide: Specification
Body
Four door body style with 4 individual seats.
Extruded bonded aluminium VH body structure
Aluminium, magnesium alloy and composite body
Extruded aluminium door side impact beams
Single bi-xenon headlamps with integrated LED side lights and direction indicators
LED rear lamps and side repeaters
Engine
All alloy quad overhead cam 48 valve 5935cc V12
Front mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive
Fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves
Compression ratio 10.9:1
Max Power 350 kW (470 bhp / 477 PS) at 6000 rpm
Max Torque 600 Nm (443 lb ft) at 5000 rpm
Acceleration 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds; 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.3 seconds
Max Speed 188 mph (303 km/h) (predicted)
Transmission
Rear mid-mounted ‘Touchtronic 2' six-speed gearbox with electronic shift-by-wire control system
Alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft
Limited slip differential
Final Drive Ratio 3.46:1
Steering
Rack and pinion, Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering, 3.0 turns lock-to-lock
Column tilt and reach adjustment.
Wheels & tyres
20" alloy wheels
Front Bridgestone Potenza 245/40 R20
Rear Bridgestone Potenza 295/35 R20
Suspension
Front Independent double wishbone incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
Rear Independent double wishbones with anti- squat and anti-lift geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
Adaptive Damping System (ADS)
Brakes
Front Dual cast brake discs 390mm diameter with six piston calipers
Rear Dual cast brake discs 360mm diameter with four piston calipers
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
Traction Control
Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
Positive Torque Control (PTC)
Electronic Park Brake (EPB)
Dimensions
Length 5019 mm (197.6")
Width (including mirrors) 2140 mm (84.3")
Height 1360 mm (53.5")
Fuel Capacity 90.5 litres
Kerb Weight 1950 kg (target) (4299 lb)
Interior
Full grain leather interior
Walnut facia trim
Iridium Silver centre console outer finish and Graphite inner finish
Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror
Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror with garage door opener (USA and Canada only)1
Electrically operated front seats
Memory front seats and exterior mirrors (three positions)
Dual stage driver and passenger front airbags
Front occupant side airbags
Head protection airbags for front and rear occupants
Heated front and rear seats
Heated rear screen
Automatic front and rear temperature control
Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) displays
LED map lamps and ambient lighting
Trip computer
Cruise control
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) satellite navigation system1,2
Bluetooth telephone preparation1
Satellite radio system (USA only)
Powerfold exterior mirrors
Front and rear parking sensors
Tyre pressure monitoring1
Alarm and immobiliser
Remote-control central door locking and boot release
Battery conditioner
Tracking device (UK only)3
Boot mounted umbrella
In Car Entertainment
1000 W Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system with ICEpower® technology
Integrated Apple iPod® connector4
USB connector with Waveform Audio Format (WAF), Windows Media Player (WMA) and MPEG (MP3) audio file compatibility
3.5 mm auxiliary input socket
Options
Cooled front and rear seats
Twin screen rear seat entertainment system with 6-disc DVD player, auxiliary input, wireless headphones and remote control
Alternative facia trim finishes - Mahogany, Piano Black, Bamboo, Tamo Ash, Birds Eye Maple, Olive Ash Burl, Double Apex Alloy
Matching wood door trim
Colour-keyed steering wheel
Second glass key
Magnum silver rear lamp infills
Delete model badging
Delete protective tape
20" alloy wheels with graphite finish
20" alloy wheels with polished finish
Alternative brake calliper finish - black, red, silver
Personalised sill plaques
Auto dimming interior rear view mirror with garage door opener (Europe only)
Alarm upgrade (volumetric and tilt sensor)
Tracking device1,3
First aid kit
Ashtray and Cigar Lighter
1 Not available in all markets
2 Includes Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC) in Continental Europe
3 Complies with UK Thatcham Category 5 requirements. Excludes subscription. Standard in UK
4 iPod® is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the US and other countries
Aston Martin Rapide: Design
Instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin, the Rapide assumes its extra doors gracefully to visually remain every bit a sporting coupe as its sister models. The four ‘swan wing' doors open up and out at 12 degrees avoiding scuffs and scratches when parked next to a raised walkway, while serving the dual purpose of allowing easier access to the front and rear cabin. The opening angle of the doors has been increased to 70 degrees to allow easy ingress and egress. Front on, the new polished alloy upper and lower grill adorn the Rapide to give it presence on the road while the new front lights house a single lens bi-xenon headlight with innovative light tube sidelights subtly distinguishing the Rapide to other road users.
Adding to the sense of proportion, Rapide's low roof line combined with uniquely styled 20" wheels contribute to its sporting stance, and the iconic side strake, housing the side LED indicators is elongated to meet the rear doors. The pillarless side glass helps convey Rapide's coupe lines. The front and rear window choreography has been designed to permit the absence of a visible B-pillar to unclutter the curve line of the doors from front to back creating a seamless glass to glass window frame. Contributing to Rapide's interior comfort, the side glass will rise up further into the window seal when the car is driven at speed cancelling out wind noise and the glass is laminated to improve noise insulation.
Strong rear haunches hint at the power that lies beneath creating the classic Aston Martin sports car silhouette. The wing mirrors have been specifically designed to emerge from the door giving the driver optimum visibility through the front corner glass. At the rear, a practical tailgate provides access to the 301 litre luggage space flanked by the signature Aston Martin ‘C' shaped tail lamps each housing 360 LEDs.
Echoing the beauty of the exterior, Rapide's interior welcomes all occupants to a exquisitely hand crafted and spacious cabin. To the front, the familiar dashboard and controls are ergonomically designed to provide the driver with all the information needed to extract the very best from the car. The Rapide boasts a new front seat design giving a sporting feel supporting the occupant when driving spiritedly and providing high levels of comfort during more leisurely journeys. The double-edge stitch design enhances the visual impact of the seat alluding to the attention to detail and hand craftsmanship. Heated and optional cooled seats feature with two centrally-mounted rotational dials, one at the front and one at the rear offering fingertip control to all passengers.
Both rear passengers are treated to their own individual heating and air conditioning operated independently from the front system. Controlled by a singular rotary dial in front of a digital display, two directional air vents channel air to the upper body serving to heat or cool occupants quickly and effectively while air is also channelled separately to the foot wells. The rear heating and air conditioning can also be controlled via the rotary dial located between the front seats giving the driver full control.
Aston Martin engineers chose to integrate an electronic park brake into Rapide saving space to the side of the seat and creating an uncluttered centre console. A revised BluetoothTM microphone is located above the driver's head improving sound pick-up from the driver's voice to give crystal clear conversations.
The long swooping front centre console continues all the way through to the rear seamlessly linking the front environment to the rear, thus creating a sense of involvement for the rear passengers. Large storage binnacles set between both the front and rear seats provide ample space to store CDs, games and keep valuables from view.
Two individually appointed sports seats form the rear environment of the Rapide. Aston Martin's design and engineering team paid special attention to creating a space that is cosseting giving both passengers an equally sporting feel to that of the driver while also providing passengers as much forward and side visibility as possible. Forward visibility has been optimised through intelligent profiling of the B-pillar and front seats to give occupants a clear view of the road ahead. Despite the low sleek coupe appearance, adequate leg and head room accommodates adults and children in comfort.
Rear passengers can benefit from the optional Aston Martin rear entertainment system; two LCD screens are seamlessly integrated into the back of the front seat headrests optimally positioned at eye level. A six DVD multi-changer, integrated into the boot compartment, provides hours of entertainment with sound being delivered via wireless headphones or through the standard Bang & Olufsen Besound Rapide audio system, so however long the journey, passengers will be treated to a rich audio-visual experience. Should the passengers have different taste in entertainment whether it be a DVD, a games device or simply listening to an MP3 player; the screens can be operated independently combined with wireless headphones. A infra-red remote control is supplied to control the video and sound from the comfort of the seat.
Continuing the successful brand partnership between Bang & Olufsen and Aston Martin who share similar values in design and craftsmanship; Rapide is fitted as standard with the 1000 W BeoSound Rapide - a bespoke sound system tailored to the Rapide. 15 speakers have been optimally located throughout the cabin to deliver the finest sound quality naturally associated with Bang & Olufsen. The famous Danish audio specialist's skilled Tonmeisters worked closely with Aston Martin's acoustic engineers during the entire development of Rapide to create a soundstage that cannot be localised to any particular speaker and delivering notes that are precise to the instrument played or the vocal sung.
Turning on the BeoSound Rapide, the occupants are greeted with a sense of theatre as the two Acoustic Lenses rise silently from the dashboard.
Acoustic Lens Technology (ALT) enables a wide (180 degrees) horizontal dispersion of high frequencies. The technology prevents the loss of critical sound and gives listeners an improved sense of space. ALT allows sound to be focused within the car depending on who is inside. In Auto mode, Beosound Rapide uses sensors on the seatbelts to determine how many people are in the car and their location and will adjust the soundstage for the optimum sound experience. Manual override options feature for: Driver, (focus sound solely on the driver) Front (focus on two front passengers), Rear (two rear passengers) and All Round (all four passengers).
The speaker grills are formed from a single piece of aluminium and integrate seamlessly into Rapide's interior dispersing sound equally to all passengers. A microphone located behind the rear-view mirror continually monitors ambient noise to adjust volume settings to compensate. The result of this leading technology creates an unparalleled automotive audio experience.
The two rear seat-backs effortlessly fold flat at the touch of a button to produce an increased luggage area creating 750 litres of boot space (an additional 449 litres over when the seats are in the upright position). Well appointed, the boot space is hand-trimmed with a carpet floor and four iridium anodised runners and tread plates. Increasing the versatility of the rear luggage compartment a divider can be raised or lowered to create a separate area accessible from the back seats should rear passengers require access to their luggage during the journey.
For customers with young children, ISOFIXTM attachment points feature as standard and Aston Martin will be offering approved child seats specifically for the Rapide.
Protecting passengers in the event of an accident, a total of eight airbags are strategically located throughout the cabin giving peace of mind to all passengers in all driving conditions. Restraint sensors around the vehicle help Rapide decide not only which airbag to deploy but also how aggressively depending on the severity of impact. Seatbelt pretensioners are fitted to both front and rear seats and rear passengers are protected with individual head protection airbags ensuring that Rapide is one of the safest sports cars on the road.
The Rapide is built in a new state-of-the-art 23,000 sq. metre manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria. Utilising the same modern technology as the global headquarters in Gaydon, England and combining hand-craftsmanship; the Rapide is hand built to Aston Martin's usual exacting standards. Customers will be able to visit the facility as part of the Aston Martin experience where specialists are able to guide and help customers specify their Rapide with over 2.5 million different combinations of paint, options and finishes available from Aston Martin's core options list.
Aston Martin Rapide: Performance
Like all Aston Martins, the Rapide has undergone the marque's strict and rigorous testing programme to ensure the required levels of quality, durability, performance and dynamics are met. Around 50 prototypes were built all designed to be subjected to the very toughest tests. For example, hot weather testing took place in Death Valley, USA and Kuwait, Middle East exposing the car to temperatures in excess of 50 degrees Celsius, while cold weather assessments in Sweden and in a cold testing chamber saw prototypes subjected to -40 degrees Celsius. High speed testing was conducted at the famous Nardo proving ground in Italy, while dynamics were honed at the Nürburgring, Germany where prototypes were relentlessly run for 8,000 km on the Nordschleife to test all components pushing them to the very limits.
The Rapide is a sports car - a thoroughbred which can be enjoyed by four people in unison. Aston Martin engineers have spent thousands of hours tuning suspension, throttle maps, tyres, brakes and steering to create a car that, while practical, also provides a dynamically engaging drive. Despite the extra versatility, the low roof line, and therefore low centre of gravity, makes Rapide feel like an agile coupe.
Ian Minards, Product Development Director said: "We have learned so much with the development of the current Aston Martin range, and Rapide has really benefited from this knowledge. Our prototypes have been so close to production specification that we are able to really understand the car from very early on in the development process.
"Rapide is about the journey, and we always intended to combine the ethos of the DB9 and package it for up to four people in comfort but preserve the excitement of driving an Aston Martin sports car."
The front mid-mounted 6.0 litre V12 engine which sits at the heart of Rapide produces 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power being delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) and peak torque at 5000 rpm. The resultant 0-60 mph time is 5.1 seconds (0-100 km/h: 5.3 seconds). The engine designed and developed by Aston Martin engineers at Gaydon, England is hand built in a dedicated facility in Köln, Germany.
The use of lightweight materials has resulted in the Rapide's projected weight gaining only 190 kg over its DB9 sibling delivering a target kerb weight of 1950 kg. This figure is achieved through the use of Aston Martin's Vertical / Horizontal (V/H) architecture - a platform technology derived from the aerospace industry employing aluminium which is bonded rather than welded to create a lightweight and ultra-stiff chassis. Despite the Rapide being 290 mm longer than DB9, it was a key objective to maximise the structural rigidity accounting for the increased length in wheelbase. The Rapide's structure would require 28,000 Nm of force to be twisted through 1 degree. This torsional rigidity is a key element in delivering the excellent dynamic feel by optimising wheel to road contact and minimising vehicle shake and vibration.
Aside from the front doors and bonnet, all of Rapide's body panels are new. The front wings are formed from composite while all four doors and roof are pressed aluminium and the rear quarter panels are steel.
Ian Minards said: "Dynamically the Rapide feels every bit as agile as the DB9, I have personally experienced the car being driven at high speed on the Nürburgring, and was enormously impressed with its capabilities."
The standard six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission has been calibrated to ensure that the additional weight of Rapide has had a minimal impact on fuel economy, emissions and performance.
Derived from the same transaxle unit that was developed for the DB9, the system has been substantially re-tuned to accommodate driving and handling characteristics of the Rapide with a final drive ratio of 3.46:1.
System functionality is consistent with that on the DB9, with ‘Park', ‘Reverse', ‘Neutral' and ‘Drive' modes selected via facia mounted controls.
When in ‘Drive' mode, pulling either of the leather-trimmed magnesium alloy paddles mounted on the steering column will activate Touchtronic mode, enabling the driver to control gear shifts via the paddles. Touchtronic mode is also accessible directly on engine start-up. Alternatively, the ‘Drive' mode can be selected at any time by pressing the ‘D' control on the centre console, engaging a fully automatic mode which will select the most appropriate gear for the speed and driving conditions automatically.
The system also includes a ‘Sport' mode - activated by a button on the centre console - which engages a more aggressive gear shift strategy as gear changes feel sharper and more forceful, engine speed matching on downshifts is more aggressive and in full automatic mode, upshifts occur at higher speeds.
A new saddle-design fuel tank has been integrated to hold 90.5 litres enabling Rapide to deliver a range of over 300 miles without reducing the car's sporting dynamics and serves the dual purpose of a flat loading space in the luggage compartment.
Aston Martin Rapide: Control
As the culmination of the Aston Martin range, Aston Martin's engineers have gained much experience and learning from the development of the DBS, DB9 and Vantage range of sports cars - this wealth and breadth of experience has all been channelled into Rapide to produce a four door with unrivalled sports car characteristics. The basic ingredients have already been proven: the powerful engine, the lightweight yet stiff understructure, the honing in the toughest environments around the world and the exhaust note which is always evocative no matter which model. Applying these characteristics to Rapide alongside a car which is a practical four-door, was the engineers' greatest challenge to date. The result is a car that feels every bit a sports car as its siblings, yet provides versatility in a beautiful package.
With the six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic gearbox mounted to the rear of the car on the transaxle, the Rapide's weight balance is near perfect at: 51:49, contributing to its outstanding dynamics. This provides the driver with an engaging drive on twisty roads, and a refined, relaxed and effortless drive on motorways and main roads. The 20" wheels are clad with Bridgestone Potenza S001 (Front: 245/40 R20, Rear: 295/35 R20) but specifically for Rapide feature a taller side wall to help dial out vibration and contribute to a quieter cabin.
For the first time on an Aston Martin, Rapide features a dual cast brake system. The discs are made from two materials, cast iron and aluminium. The new technology provides dynamic advantages in the form of reduced unsprung mass with a brake that is 15-20% lighter than a standard cast iron brake. Using both cast iron and aluminium takes advantage of the heat resistance provided by cast iron and the weight saving properties of aluminium. In addition, greater braking performance, reduced corrosion, and less wear are all benefits associated with the Rapide dual cast brake system.
Rapide's brake system features a new braking module delivering more discreet interventions and provides improved functionality for existing features as well as the new Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), which provides assistance in emergency braking situations. The Hydraulic Brake Assist function identifies when the driver requires maximum braking performance, from the speed at which the brake pedal is depressed, and automatically boosts the brake pressure up to the ABS control threshold for as long as the driver keeps the brake pedal pressed down. As a result, stopping distances can be substantially reduced.
To take full advantage of its extremely rigid platform, the Rapide features Adaptive Damping System (ADS) first seen on the DBS which uses two separate valves to set the dampers to five different positions, allowing instant adjustment of the car's ride and handling characteristics. The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond instantly to different road conditions and driver inputs.
The Rapide's Adaptive Damping System perfectly captures the car's sporting character, ensuring that stiffer dampers are available for better handling and control when the car is being driven enthusiastically, without compromising ride comfort during ‘normal' driving conditions. A designated ‘Sport' mode automatically sets all dampers to their firmest positions, making it ideal for spirited driving.
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system has been specifically tuned for Rapide with emphasis on its sporting characteristics. A two-stage DSC system allows the driver to tailor the level of electronic intervention according to the type of driving. In default mode, the system is set to ‘on' which will limit any tyre slip in difficult conditions, and provide the maximum amount of security possible with out being intrusive. Holding the DSC button for 5 seconds will disengage the system completely, allowing a pure dynamic experience.
2009 Mansory Cyrus Aston Martin DBS and DB9
Already for more than 20 years, the Bavarian company MANSORY has been developing and producing fascinating car modifications for demanding customers all over the world. The latest creation of the top-class manufacturer is called MANSORY CYRUS and is based on the Aston Martin DBS or DB9. Perfect processing and an elaborate technology are the hallmarks of this masculine aerodynamic power pack. A coilover suspension provides the best road holding and emphasises the striking rims in XXL. The refinement is perfected by an exclusive interior programme.
Haute Couture on wheels
Tailor-made processing and perfect surfaces confirm the superb quality of the MANSORY designer outfit. The CYRUS aerodynamics components are made of extremely light „prepreg autoclav carbon" and do not only include wing extensions for the front and back, but also side skirt attachments and linings. At the front axle, a newly designed front skirt with enlarged air inlets provides the optimal ventilation for the twelve-cylinder aggregate. The CYRUS front is visually enhanced with the newly designed carbon bonnet. With its two slotted "power domes" additional fresh air is directed to the front motor. Also at the tail, the refining engineers have invented something extraordinary in order to perfect the visual appearance of the Aston Martin. The newly designed rear skirt with the integrated diffuser emphasises the superior look and provides space for four stainless steel end pipes of the sonorous sport exhaust system.
Design wheels in XXL
The optimal road grip is provided by the 9x20 and 10,5x21 inch rims in combination with Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres measuring 255/30ZR20 at the front and 295/25ZR21 at the back. The design of the ultra-light forged wheel thereby unites sportiness and elegance and perfectly fills out the wheel houses. In addition, an optimally adjusted coilover suspension lowers the centre of gravity of this noble sports car and renders perfect road holding characteristics.
Luxurious atmosphere in the MANSORY super sports car
The CYRUS driver will take his seat in a elaborately refined interior which is nothing short of the exterior. The entire modification includes pedals and foot rests made of aluminium as well as exquisite door sills and head rests with embroidered CYRUS logos. MANSORY enhances the interior with a set of tailor-made carbon parts for the dash board and centre console. Generally, the noble interior is only lined with best quality materials. Decoration stitches by expert hand on the dash board and the seats render visual high-lights and perfect the significantly beautiful overall impression of the complete leather equipment. The ergonomically re-designed steering wheel with airbag lies especially well in the hand.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
2010 Aston Martin One 77
The era of epic supercars is certainly not over at Aston
Aston Martin will essentially be presenting the bare chassis of the first production version of the One-77 in an attempt to showcase the engineering and design expertise behind the bespoke supercar. After all, the One-77 is being built not just as a halo car, but as an ultra-halo car, a sort of rekindling of the legacy of Aston Martin, plus a projection of the brand into the future. It's designed to be the most quintessential Aston Martin ever, and the most perfectly personalized car available.
[Source: Aston-Martin]
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
Aston Martin will take the wraps off its fastest ever production convertible at the Geneva motor show when the muscular 2010 DBS Volante makes its global debut.
The soft-top version of Aston's beefy DBS will top 191 mph, the company says, and sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds, figures that put the DBS Volante in the top echelon of open-top supercars.
[Source: Aston-Martin]
2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Coupe
Aston Martin’s most complete car has always been the entry-level V8 Vantage. The car’s squat, purposeful lines are still the best example of the company.
2009 Aston Martin Lagonda Concept
Aston Martin announced the revival of its Lagonda brand at the Geneva Motor Show Wednesday morning. Along with the announcement comes a vehicle simply known as the Lagonda Concept — a bulky, retro-styled all-wheel-drive four-seat luxury sedan geared toward high-performance and exclusivity.
The Lagonda is the luxury car of the future, a combination of total usability, a new form and innovative new technology and materials.
[Source: Aston-Martin]
Saturday, October 24, 2009
2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage
• Fastest and most agile Vantage ever; ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range
• Purposeful, striking and functional styling signalling performance capabilities
• Everyday usability associated with a modern Aston Martin
• Race-derived technology used throughout
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
Aston
The soft-top version of Aston's beefy DBS will top 191 mph, the company says, and sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds, figures that put the DBS Volante in the top echelon of open-top supercars.
2010 Aston Martin One-77
Aston Martin One-77 technical showcase made its debut the Geneva Auto Salon on 3 March 2009. Chassis no.1 was on display as an exposé throughout the show detailing the quintessence of Aston Martin engineering and design expertise.
The One-77 is Aston Martin’s definitive sports car, one that epitomises everything Aston Martin from technology, the hand-craftsmanship of the hand rolled aluminium panels to the attention to detail. A culmination of all the marque’s know-how, the Aston Martin One-77 delivers effortless beauty guaranteed to stir the senses with performance potential eclipsing any previous Aston Martin.
With the performance and durability phase of the Aston Martin One-77’s intensive development programme soon to commence, the 79th Geneva Auto Salon provides the perfect stage on which to reveal the remarkable engineering, advanced technology and exotic materials that lie beneath the Aston Martin One-77’s extraordinary exterior.
For Aston Martin’s Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez, revealing the Aston Martin One-77’s secrets is a proud moment: “Right from the very beginning of the project the vision for Aston Martin One-77 was very simple: It had to combine high-technology with hand-built craftsmanship, and demonstrate the unique capabilities and passion of our designers, engineers and technical partners.
“Quite simply it had to be the ultimate expression of Aston Martin. As you can now see, we have achieved that goal in magnificent style.”
Chris Porritt, Aston Martin One-77 Programme Manager continued: “We wanted to create something that wows you as much when you see what’s under the skin as the exterior styling itself. We started by identifying the most technologically exciting front-engined, rear-wheel drive cars in the world: those from the DTM race series. We then applied the principles and technology that feature heavily in their design and translated it to a road car application.”
Consequently the Aston Martin One-77’s structural core is a lightweight and immensely rigid carbon fibre monocoque. Conceived and designed at Aston Martin’s Gaydon HQ, the monocoque, or ‘tub’, has been built in partnership with Multimatic (MTC). As world leaders in carbon composite technology, advanced vehicle analysis and dynamic simulation, MTC brings unrivalled specialist capabilities to the exacting challenge of the Aston Martin One-77 programme.
Employing the classic formula of double wishbones at each corner, the Aston Martin One-77 features inboard suspension front and rear, with pushrods employed to transfer vertical suspension movements to the horizontally mounted spring/damper units. A practice taken directly from racing car design, the main advantages of inboard suspension are a reduction in unsprung weight and the ability to package the suspension components more effectively.
The dampers are fully adjustable and feature advanced Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) technology; a world-first for a road car application. These special valves are state-of-the-art even at the highest levels of motorsport, and use high-precision machined components to enable the shock-absorbing characteristics of the damper to be changed without having to remove them from the car, as is the norm.
Underlining the truly bespoke nature of the Aston Martin One-77, once delivered to its owner, the car’s suspension characteristics will be precisely set-up by Aston Martin engineers to suit their exact requirements, from settings suitable for the ultimate long-distance GT, to a machine capable of conquering the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
While functionality and efficiency are paramount in the design and construction of the Aston Martin One-77, so too is aesthetic beauty. To this end every single component has been crafted from the finest materials with absolute attention to detail. From the mesmerising weave of the glossy carbon fibre tub and the abstract, sculptural beauty of the dry sump’s oil reservoir, to the unerring precision of the billet machined aluminium suspension mounts, the Aston Martin One-77’s rolling chassis is an automotive masterpiece.
Of course the irony is that the vast majority of these exquisite components will be hidden from view in the finished car, yet each and every piece is a work of art in its own right. It’s this extraordinary workmanship and money-no-object commitment to quality that makes the Aston Martin One-77 unique.
Naturally, such a spectacular chassis demands – and gets – an equally exceptional drivetrain. It comes in the form of an immensely potent 7.3-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine. Thanks to the adoption of a dry-sump oil system the engine is mounted 100mm lower than in any previous V12-engined Aston Martin road car, which helps keep the Aston Martin One-77’s centre-of-gravity as low as possible. To further aid agility and endow the Aston Martin One-77 with progressive handling and stable, predictable on-limit behaviour, the engine is also mounted 257mm aft relative to the front wheel centreline. In so doing the front-mid-engined layout shared by all of Aston Martin’s current road car range has been taken to a new level.
The Aston Martin One-77’s magnificent power unit is an extreme evolution of the 6.0-litre V12 engines fitted to the Aston Martin DBS, DB9 and new V12 Vantage models. Like the collaboration with MTC for the build of the chassis, Aston Martin has chosen a world-leading partner with which to develop the motor: legendary engine builders, Cosworth. It has proved to be the perfect collaboration, as Chris Porritt explains.
“Our brief to the engine team was for them to take the 6.0-litre V12 as far as it could go, both in terms of output and weight reduction. The targets were a power output of no less than 700bhp with a 10 per cent reduction in engine mass. Incredibly, the Aston Martin and Cosworth engineers achieved a mass reduction of some 25 per cent, and although we’ve yet to complete the final engine calibration work, I’m confident we’ll see in excess of 700bhp. It’s an awesome accomplishment, but one that’s typical of the One-77 project, for it has consistently brought out the very best in everyone involved.”
Wearing Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres (255/35 ZR20 front, 335/30 ZR20 rear) developed specifically for the Aston Martin One-77, all 700+bhp is transmitted to the road through the rear wheels via a new six-speed gearbox. Controlled via column-mounted paddles behind the steering wheel, this robotised sequential manual is a new generation of Aston Martin’s familiar transmission. Though it is made specifically for the Aston Martin One-77 and features specially strengthened internals to cope with the tremendous power and torque, the lessons learned in its development will ultimately find their way into the company’s series production models.
It’s a mark of the inherent capabilities of Aston Martin’s acclaimed lightweight Carbon Ceramic Matrix brake technology that it has been used as the basis for the Aston Martin One-77’s braking system. The internals of the callipers have been re-engineered to transmit less heat from the brake pads into the brake fluid, while the discs themselves have been developed to ensure the maximum possible contact area between the face of the disc and the brake pads for improved stopping power. Due to the Aston Martin One-77’s increased performance, special attention has also been paid to brake cooling, as the brakes have less time to cool between bursts of acceleration.
With a projected weight of 1,500kg the Aston Martin One-77 will occupy the very highest echelons of road car performance. Top speed is confidently predicted to be in excess of 200mph, with a 0-60mph time in approximately 3.5sec. Perhaps more importantly, thanks to the purity of a front-engined, rear-drive layout, the responsiveness and immense tractability of a naturally aspirated V12 and the low mass, high-rigidity properties of a carbon fibre chassis, the Aston Martin One-77 promises a driving experience of unrivalled intensity and excitement while representing the world’s most desirable automotive art form.
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