Aston Martin unveils 'Red Bull Racing' Vantage S
Aston Martin says the V8 Vantage S Red Bull Racing Special Edition celebrates the innovative partnership between themselves and the Red Bull F1 team and builds on the appeal of the sports-focused Vantage range by delivering "a blend of eye-catching looks and an engaging and visceral driving experience".
The launch, hosted by Aston Martin's President and CEO Dr. Andy Palmer, and attended by 200 VIPs and special guests, was held at Aston Martin's landmark new Melbourne showroom, which is due to open soon after the limited edition Vantage S launch.
Inspired by F1
Available in both V8 and V12 forms, the Vantage Red Bull Racing Editions - created by the marque's in-house personalisation service Q by Aston Martin - are described as being highly appealing to the collector market.
Created to celebrate the two brands' unique 'Innovation Partnership', Aston Martin's latest global offering features the signatures of Red Bull Racing drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen on both sill and under bonnet inspection plaques.
Available with Aston Martin's V8 or V12 naturally aspirated power units (that means a choice of 321kW / 490Nm or 420kW / 620Nm - more with the optional Sport-Plus Pack), both Vantage Red Bull Racing Editions are equipped with a range of distinguishing features designed to appeal to Formula 1 enthusiasts.
Taking inspiration from Red Bull Racing's distinctive F1 race livery, the Racing Edition Vantage S is finished in a deep Mariana Blue paint finish as standard. For those wanting a slight twist, gloss Tungsten Silver or satin Mariana Blue exteriors are optional.
Complementing this is a race-inspired carbon fibre treatment on the splitter, diffuser, grille and side strakes. Red infills on the carbon fibre grille and yellow calipers complete the colour scheme.
Inside, features include Red Bull Racing logos embroidered in the headrests, carbon fibre trim inlays and a full-leather steering wheel complete with 12 o'clock accent stripe.
Melbourne Launch
At the global launch for the V8 Vantage S Red Bull Racing Edition, hosted by Aston Martin's President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Andy Palmer, guests were treated to appearances from Red Bull Racing's Team Principal, Christian Horner and Chief Technical Officer, Adrian Newey, with the special edition unveiled by Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen, who drove the car in to the event venue.
Alongside the special edition, the regular Vanquish S also made its Melbourne debut at the launch event and has been generating great interest, according to Aston Martin.
Palmer said: "We are thrilled to have the new V8 Vantage S Red Bull Racing Edition model make its global debut here in stunning Melbourne.
"Motorsport will always be a key part of Aston Martin's DNA, and our innovative partnership with Red Bull Racing highlights our dedication to bringing that ethos direct to our customers."
Palmer later did a few laps around the Albert Park F1 circuit in the Red Bull Racing Edition.
Bobby Zagame, Managing Director, Zagame Automotive Group, said: "It is a great honour for us to reveal the Aston Martin V8 Vantage S Red Bull Racing Edition and new Vanquish S to our VIP clients, as well as provide an early preview of our new state-of- the-art Aston Martin showroom."
Limited Edition
Just 17 units of these Vantage S-based specials have been allocated for Australia, priced from AU$259,995 drive away for the V8 version, while the V12 Vantage S Red Bull Racing Edition with Sportshift transmission starts at AU$422,770 (excluding on-road costs). Local deliveries start in April.
The new Aston Martin showroom is due to open shortly.