Aston Martin to Open Engineering Test Centre at the Nürburgring

Warwickshire - February 14, 2008 - Just two months after opening its first ever purpose-built design studio at the company's Gaydon headquarters in Warwickshire, Aston Martin has announced plans to establish a new test centre at the famous Nürburgring race circuit in Germany.

Work is underway to convert an existing building at a prime location at Meuspath, adjacent to the famous Nordschleife circuit, and the facility is expected to be operational by the end of May this year.

Aston Martin has made extensive use of the legendary 14-mile circuit for testing and development over recent years. While being instrumental in developing aspects such as ride and handling, tyres, brakes and cooling systems, all new models are also subjected to a 10,000km high speed sign-off test on the gruelling circuit. The new facility will enhance these activities and provide a secure, permanent base for the company's engineering and development team, while also allowing opportunities for customer activities in the future.

Aston Martin's CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez, commented: "When we open the Aston Martin Nürburgring Test Centre at the end of May this will be our second major new facility in less than 12 months since the company entered new ownership.

“The Nürburgring has played a vital part in improving the performance and durability of all modern Aston Martins. Our new test centre will allow us to further increase the performance of our cars and to share something of the unique Nordschleife experience with our customers."

The new test centre is the latest announcement in an exciting period for Aston Martin. Following on from the launch of the eagerly anticipated DBS – which will appear alongside James Bond in Bond 22, Quantum of Solace – and the bold V12 Vantage RS concept, the company achieved record sales in 2007 and heads into 2008 with the strongest model line-up in the company’s history.