Aston Martin Reveals Fastest SUV In The World As F1 Medical Car
Aston Martin has replaced its original DBX model with the new DBX707 for the 2023 F1 season, and it's faster in just about every way. In fact, the DBX707 is now the world's fastest SUV and, as of this season, the official FIA medical car of Formula 1.
Alongside Mercedes, Aston Martin supplies the FIA with both medical and safety cars in the shape of the new DBX707 and Aston Martin vantage respectively. But with such a focus now on the sustainability of the sport, this partnership will be shared out depending on transport and ecology costs.
Improved Performance
- Aston Martin
While the standard DBX was only capable of a 0-60mph time of 4.3 seconds, the new 707 variant will hit the magic number in just 3.1 seconds. Keeping your foot to the floor will see it hit a top speed of 193mph, too, much faster than the likes of the equivalent Mercedes, the AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+, and other competitors in its class.
The Lamborghini Urus Performante for example, will 'only' hit 190mph in comparison. The Ferrari Purosangue is just as fast, but gets there slower, and while the Tesla Model X Plaid hits 60mph in a mind-shattering 2.3 seconds, it tops out at 163mph.
The engine powering the 707 is a 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 developed by Aston themselves, delivering 707PS (hence the name) and 900Nm of torque. If I'm not wrong, that also makes it the most powerful SUV in the world, adding yet another cherry atop the British marque's cake.
A 9-speed wet clutch gearbox sends this power to all four wheels with quick and succinct gear changes, and 420mm carbon brakes at the front, 390mm at the rear, will allow this albeit rather light behemoth to a stop on a dime.
A very high-tech swathe of suspension features also makes this SUV a self-proclaimed master in the corners with it riding on an air setup with new damper valving and a recalibration of dynamic spring volume switching keeping body roll in check.
“Creating the ultimate SUV presented formidable challenges for our engineering team. Too often this class of car is characterized by an obsession with brute force," Aston Martin’s Head of Vehicle Engineering and Procurement, Drummond Jacoy says.
With DBX707 our objective was to match immense performance with impeccable control and precision, combined with an authentic sporting character essential in every Aston Martin model.
"To this end we applied an uncompromising approach to every area of the vehicle. Engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electronic systems and aerodynamics have all been subject to extensive enhancement and meticulous tuning.
"The result is a car which sets new standards and further distinguishes the DBX from its class rivals.”
Aggressive Design
Aston Martin
This new aggression under the body panels is indeed reflected in new styling, including a newly revised spoiler and diffuser, as well as a host of other carbon fibre parts. This includes the driveshaft to keep weight low.
Inside it features race-ready features such as a roll cage, racing seats and harnesses, and the boot is full of equipment to cope with any emergency on the track. Of course, the car wears a light bar on its roof.
Official FIA Medical Car of F1
Two 707s have been supplied to the FIA as medical cars, and Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer, Roberto Fedeli promises they're the best car for the job:
“DBX707 is the perfect vehicle for the critical role as an Official FIA Medical Car of F1,” he says. “It provides the performance and punch required for the world’s greatest racing circuits, in addition to the flexibility and space required by the sport’s officials and medics.
“With the eyes of the world on our products, there is pressure to perform, but that intensity pushes us to constantly improve.
“Seeing our cars used in an official capacity at such prestigious events is something that everyone at Aston Martin is very proud of.”
Fine-Tuned for Performance
The car was fine-tuned by Aston Martin racer and test driver Darren Turner who has plenty of experience behind the wheel of FIA medical cars. It was fettled during last week's pre-season testing in Bahrain and will make its debut this coming weekend.