The Geneva motor show is full of concepts. That means that in order to stand out, you need to bring something big. Aston Martin has managed that, bringing not one but three out of this world concepts, all giving us a look at the design language of bound-for-production models. The AM RB-001, a new mid-engine Vanquish, and the return of Lagonda with the All-Terrain concept SUV.
Aston's Project 003 mid-engined baby hypercar has become the AM-RB 003. That change is because the British automaker has confirmed the involvement of Formula 1 partner Red Bull Advanced Technologies.
The car's dynamics are being handled by Aston, with the powertrain and chassis optimisation handled by RBAT.
The third mid-engine hypercar for the company, after the Valkyrie and Valkyrie AMR Pro, will again borrow tech taken from F1. Like the new turbocharged V6 engine and hybrid system that will power the car.
This one will be a more practical car than the Valkyrie, the automaker says. With more concessions for road use. It will also be produced in greater numbers, with 500 set to be built.
Next up is another mid-engined car. The Vanquish Vision Concept is a preview of the first mid-engined car in the company's main line. One that could see production in greater numbers than the Valkyrie or 003's limited volume.
The looks aren't that far off of the Valkyrie or 003, but expect this to be a smaller car. And unlike those top-dog models, this one is aluminum and not carbon fibre. It's aimed solidly at what Aston calls a segment "traditionally defined by Italian supercar makers." That means the mid-engined Ferraris, with the F8 being the latest.
It will have the turbo V6 and hybrid system shared with the AM-RB 003, and while Aston isn't saying how powerful it will be, The F8 and McLaren 720S are both over 700 hp, so expect this one to be as well. The production version is scheduled for 2022.
Finally, the Lagonda All-Terrain Concept is a luxury SUV that looks like it's from another planet. The concept gives us a look at the production Aston Martin electric SUV set for 2022, though don't expect anything this dramatic. The production model will mark the return of Lagonda, a brand that mostly disappeared along with the wedge-shaped sedan in 1989. Aston says you "could just as easily imagine it roaming the surface of Mars as a mountain in Scotland," though really the biggest difference between those two landscapes is some roadside sheep.
The design language is inspired by the super yacht, especially that long tail. The rear-hinged doors allow for a dramatic reveal of that very luxurious interior. "We imagined that the owner would be a sort of pioneering yet environmentally conscious person" said Aston Martin EVP and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman. "They may well have a luxury villa in a remote place that acts as their sanctuary. It is not about wood and leather, we tried to design the interior to feel very calm and quiet with soft, natural materials like Cashmere."
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