Owning an Aston Martin isn't just about acquiring a car; it's about stepping into a legacy. Every meticulously crafted Aston Martin embodies a rich heritage, a symphony of engineering prowess and British automotive excellence. But have you ever wondered where these legendary machines are born, and who makes Aston Martin?
Join us on a journey to uncover the answers and gain insight into the fascinating world of Aston Martin.
A Legacy Forged in England
For over a century, the heart of Aston Martin has resided in England. Every single one of the 80,000 Aston Martins ever produced has proudly rolled off factory lines within the British Isles. This unwavering commitment to their roots has solidified Aston Martin's position as a quintessentially English marque. In fact, the brand's enduring association with Great Britain and its status as James Bond's preferred ride have further cemented this image.
However, the story takes an interesting turn as Aston Martin embarks on a new chapter. The brand recently announced plans to construct their first factory outside of England, setting up shop in Wales. This move signifies a willingness to adapt and expand their production footprint, while still retaining their core identity.
Who Makes Aston Martin?
The question of who makes Aston Martin extends beyond a single entity. While the Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings PLC, founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bramford, holds the reins, the brand's journey has been shaped by strategic partnerships.
In 1987, Ford became a significant stakeholder, injecting resources and expertise into the brand. This collaboration undoubtedly played a role in propelling Aston Martin forward. However, in 2020, the reins shifted once more, with Mercedes-Benz stepping up as the primary shareholder, increasing their stake to a significant 20%.
This shift signifies a new era of collaboration, with Mercedes-Benz's technological prowess poised to influence future Aston Martin models. Think of it as a meeting of the minds, where German engineering excellence fuses with British automotive heritage to create something truly remarkable.
The Hands that Craft Perfection
One of the most captivating aspects of Aston Martin is the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each car. Unlike most modern vehicles churned out by robots on assembly lines, Aston Martins are lovingly hand-built by skilled technicians at the brand's headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, England.
This dedication to human expertise ensures that every Aston Martin is a unique expression of automotive artistry. While some elements of the production process may involve machinery, the core assembly relies on the practiced hands and discerning eyes of these talented craftspeople. The result? A vehicle imbued with a soul, a testament to the enduring legacy of British bespoke car manufacturing.
The Future of Aston Martin
While Aston Martin is deeply rooted in tradition, they're not afraid to embrace innovation. Their recent announcement of building a new factory in Wales signifies their commitment to growth and adaptation. This expansion paves the way for increased production capacity and the potential for exciting new models in the future.
So, the next time you see the Aston Martin badge, remember the rich history, the dedication to handcrafting excellence, and the innovative spirit that goes into making every single car. It's a testament to a brand that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts for generations, and continues to push the boundaries of automotive design and performance.