Aston Martin testing its DBX SUV concept to the exteme in Sweden
The Aston Martin DBX – the British luxury marque’s first SUV – has continued its intensive development programme this week at Pirelli’s official test facility, close to the Arctic Circle in Sweden.
Pirelli’s R&D Sottozero Centre at the Flurheden Proving Ground provides a range of extreme environments, from snowy roads to ice handling courses, allowing Aston Martin’s vehicle dynamics specialists – led by Aston Martin Chief Engineer, Matt Becker – to put the DBX prototype to the test.
A word from the man at the helm of the DBX project
Speaking about the need for the Arctic testing protocol, Becker said, “The Aston Martin DBX needs to be ready for a wide range of multi-terrain surfaces. Along with testing the car in normal day-to-day situations, we need to test it in extreme conditions such as these. Testing these prototypes in cold climate conditions helps us to assess the car’s early dynamics. Crucially, it will ensure confidence and inspire sure-footedness on low grip surfaces. This car propels Aston Martin into a new segment. Our engineering team is enjoying the challenges of developing a quality luxury SUV experience through this robust testing schedule. I am confident that we will deliver over and above what our customers would expect from an Aston Martin SUV.”
The Aston Martin DBX will go into prototype build at St Athan, Wales in mid-2019. The brand says that production will commence in 2020. Along with the DBX, Aston Martin is also working on the Valkyrie hypercar, as well as the new Vanquish Vision concept, which they are displaying at the Geneva Motor show.
