Q by Aston Martin celebrates decade of exclusivity with unique DBR22 design concept

MANILA: Aston Martin introduced the DBR22, a V12-powered two-seater coachbuilt design concept, at the 2022 Monterey Car Week.

The DBR22 is the latest project by Q by Aston Martin, the brand’s in-house bespoke division. This concept also marks the 10th anniversary of the division that creates exclusive cars for the world’s most discerning clients. Among its most remarkable commissions are the Aston Martin Victor and the highly exclusive Vulcan and Vantage V600.

Being one of the rarest Aston Martins in the brand’s 109-year history, the DBR22 is developed with engineering precision, exhilarating performance, and genuine passion. It perfectly combines the classic art of coachbuilding with cutting-edge production technologies.

The DBR22 also gives a modern take on Aston Martin’s lineage of world-beating two-seater open-cockpit sports cars such as the DBR1 and DB3S.

The DB3S is one of the most iconic models in Aston Martin’s racing history. Launched in 1953, Frank Feeley’s alloy DB3S body has been known for its remarkable performance in Le Mans. Meanwhile, the DBR1, the “ultimate Aston Martin sports car,” was an upgraded version of Feeley’s design language and has become one of the most influential Aston Martins of all time. It dominated the world’s most prestigious races, including the Le Mans in 1959 which led to its ultimate victory at the World Sports Car Championship in the same year.

The DBR22 features a distinctive coachbuilt style that creates a more muscular appearance. This results in a uniquely dramatic and elegant look, which is complemented by several exclusive design elements.

The most notable feature of the design concept is the new front grille with a unique carbon fiber design that is inspired by the DBR1 and DB3S, showcasing how Aston Martin’s heritage serves as an inspiration to produce a modern design concept.

“We set our design systems to ‘hyper-drive,’ pushing the exploration of formalism further and endeavoring to express a future in the here today. Where could we go with the surfaces, proportion, and form? Combining this approach with advanced processes, technology, and materials, we’ve effectively modernized our racing bloodline and created a new pedigree. DBR22 is a hot-blooded, purebred Aston Martin sports car full of speed, agility, and spirit, and a machine that we think will be the basis of many of tomorrow’s icons,” Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman said.

The bonnet is designed with a dramatic horseshoe vent, which is intended to improve airflow from the engine underneath.

The DBR22 is also fitted with all-new 14-spoke 21-inch lightweight alloy wheels with the available motorsport-derived center-lock hub and is also coated in a bespoke paint color that was developed using Q by Aston Martin’s “Paint to Sample” option. It also comes with a minimalist cockpit that features extensive use of leather and carbon fiber.  Although the design concept is inspired by Aston Martin’s heart-pumping sports cars, the interior exudes a welcoming ambiance with its contemporary dashboard and carbon fiber performance seats.

Located behind the seats are twin nacelles that improve the airflow behind the driver and passenger. The cabin is also equipped with a slim, full-width light bar that produces a horizontal light graphic. There is a perforated panel underneath, allowing hot air to exit the tail. This unique structural piece is another notable design element of the DBR22 concept.

Q by Aston Martin allows customers to completely tailor their units by offering an extensive range of options for paint color, graphics, and interior and exterior materials.

Powering the DBR22 is a 5.2-liter V12 Twin-turbo engine that produces 715 horsepower and 753 Newton-meters of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 319 kilometers per hour. It's paired with an eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission that features torque shaping. A pinned steering column also provides precise handling.

The DBR22 also features unique front and rear shear panels for increased torsional rigidity, as well as custom adaptive damper calibration. This results in body control and a smooth ride, whether on the road or on the track. It is also the first Aston Martin to feature a 3D-printed component. Its rear subframe is made up of 3D-printed aluminum parts. The use of this method contributes to weight loss while maintaining stiffness.

“Technology is pivotal in the construction of DBR22, with extensive use of carbon fiber throughout, and the use of 3D printing for the manufacture of a structural component. As such DBR22 showcases Aston Martin’s unique capabilities, with the world-class design combined with an agile, intelligent approach to engineering and production. For a car that was designed to celebrate the ultimate bespoke customization service, the engineering developments mean DBR22 truly has the dynamic theater to match, ensuring the drive is just as addictive as its looks,” Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer Roberto Fedeli stated.

The Aston Martin DBR22 design concept will be displayed at Pebble Beach Concours D’ Elegance from August 19 to 21.

Photos from Aston Martin

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