Aston Martin launches the DBR22 and pays homage to the 24 Hours of Le Mans

Lawrence's decision Stroll to put the Valkyrie Hypercar project on standby whileAston Martin was to return to 24 Hours of Le Mans remains in the throats of enthusiasts, especially after hearing the melody of his V12. But the English manufacturer is trying to make up for it on August 15 by presenting the DBR22.

All in the genes. Tradition reimagined.

DBR22. V12-engined, coach-built designed, limited-edition concept paying homage to a lifelong lineage of race winning, world-beating open cockpit sportscars.#Aston Martin #DBR22 #INTENSITYDRIVEN

- Aston Martin (@astonmartin) August 15

This supercharged convertible concept will be produced for a few wealthy customers accustomed to the brand. The DBR22 celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Q by Aston Martin customization department. Okay, that's for the pretext. But the DBR22 is above all an evocation of the history of the firm in Endurance and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Indeed, the curves of the roadster recall without a shadow of a doubt the slender design of the DB3S then its evolution better known to motorsport enthusiasts, the DBR1. The DB3S was introduced in 1953, and although its results were more convincing than the heavy DB3, the green sports car had to be content with a single World Championship success (Tourist Trophy 1953) and a second place. in Sarthe with Peter Collins Paul Frère in 1955.

The DBR1 in action at the Le Mans Classic in 2008. © JEAN MICHEL LE MEUR / DPPI

The DBR1, known as the ultimate sports car ofAston Martin, took the design language a step further and became one of the most important and influential Aston Martins of all time – winning a number of notable races, the most famous of course being Le Mans in 1959 , driven by Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori, won the world title the same year. Proof of its technological advance, the six victories at world level constituted a record during this decade.

If these two emblematic models featured in-line six engines, this is not the case for the DBR22, which relies on a large 12-liter twin-turbo V5.2 developing no less than 715 horsepower placed at the front. Enough to reach 0 to 100 km in just 3''4 with a maximum top speed estimated at 319 km/h! The gearbox is an eight-speed with shift via paddles and an automatic transmission.

© Aston Martin

Roberto Fedeli, technical director of Aston Martin, explains the contribution of new materials to this extreme car. “Technology is key in the construction of the DBR22, with extensive use of carbon fiber and the use of 3D printing to manufacture the rear subframe. The DBR22 showcases Aston Martin's unique capabilities, with world-class design combined with an agile and intelligent approach to engineering and production. »

Marek Reichman, creative director of Aston Martin, added: “The DBR22 is a hot-blooded Aston Martin sports car, full of speed, agility and spirit, and a machine that we believe will be the basis for many of tomorrow's icons. » Okay, but you still don't want to restart the Valkyrie project at Le Mans?

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