Aston Martin Delays V-12's Death with New Modular Platform

Key Takeaways

• Aston Martin is developing a new modular platform to support SUVs and sports cars.
• The platform will allow for the production of pure EVs in the future.
• Aston Martin has future-proofed its V-12 engine to remain compliant with European and U.S. regulations.
• The new platform will not accommodate plug-in hybrids.
• Aston Martin plans to introduce a 48-volt hybrid system to improve fuel economy.

What is Aston Martin’s New Modular Platform?

Aston Martin is working on a clean-sheet design for its new platform, which will be capable of producing SUVs and sports cars on the same line. This modular structure will increase shared parts, reduce complexity, and drive down costs.

The new platform is being designed with support for purely electric vehicles in mind, although these won’t be introduced until the 2030s. Aston’s CEO, Adrian Hallmark, stated that the brand is preparing for this eventuality.

How Has Aston Martin Future-Proofed its V-12 Engine?

Aston Martin has done some work to make its V-12 engine compliant with European and U.S. regulations. According to Hallmark, if the brand keeps its V-12 sales under 1000 per year, it will be exempt from legislation until 2035 at least.

This means that flagship models such as the Vanquish or ultra-exclusive models like the Valour and Valiant can remain on the roads—potentially until the sale of new combustion engines is banned.

What Features Will the New Platform Have?

The new platform is being designed with new engineering methods that will increase torsional rigidity at only a slight weight penalty. Hallmark stated that stiffer suspension mounting points will enhance driving dynamics, while rear-wheel steering will help turn-in on Aston’s GT models.

Why Won’t the New Platform Accommodate Plug-in Hybrids?

Aston Martin has decided that it doesn’t need to bother with PHEV powertrains. Since the European Union downgraded emissions credits for PHEVs after driving data showed that most owners don’t plug their cars in, the automaker decided that the added cost and weight don’t make sense for its lineup.

What is Aston Martin’s Alternative to Plug-in Hybrids?

Instead of plug-in hybrids, Aston plans to introduce a 48-volt hybrid system, adding a slight power boost and potentially improving fuel economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Aston Martin’s new modular platform?

Aston Martin’s new modular platform is a clean-sheet design that will be capable of producing SUVs and sports cars on the same line. It will increase shared parts, reduce complexity, and drive down costs.

Q: How has Aston Martin future-proofed its V-12 engine?

Aston Martin has done some work to make its V-12 engine compliant with European and U.S. regulations. If the brand keeps its V-12 sales under 1000 per year, it will be exempt from legislation until 2035 at least.

Q: What features will the new platform have?

The new platform will have stiffer suspension mounting points, rear-wheel steering, and a 48-volt hybrid system. It will also be capable of producing pure EVs in the future.