Motor Authority - blog Category: DB9

Since late 2007 Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have been cooperating to produce some of the most exotic and technologically advanced automotive sound systems in the world. Now the two companies have come together for another system for Aston Martin's DB9.

The BeoSound DB9, as the system is called, develops the art of high-performance audio even further. Like all audiophile sound equipment and like all high-end luxury sports cars, image as important as performance. "Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have achieved a reputation as leaders in both design and performance through constant innovation," said Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin’s Chief... Since late 2007 Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have been cooperating to produce some of the most exotic and technologically advanced automotive sound systems in the world. Now the two companies have come together for another system for Aston Martin's DB9. The BeoSound DB9, as the system is called, develops the art of high-performance audio even further. Like all audiophile sound equipment and like all high-end luxury sports cars, image as important as performance. "Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have achieved a reputation as leaders in both design and performance through constant innovation," said Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin’s Chief Executive, "we are proud that BeoSound DB9 continues a strong tradition of technology, design and artistry." Some of the system's key statistics include the proprietary ICEpower system that retains high levels of fidelity even at high output power and volumes while minimizing the size of the device. The now-trademark motorized tweeters pop up out of the dash to actuate Bang & Olufsen's patented Acoustic Lens Technology, which is intended to enhance the spatial perception of sound - adding depth and realism. A total of 11 other speakers in addition to the two tweeters, one a 200mm subwoofer, and Bang & Olufsen's DSP unit comprise the rest of the sound system. The DSP unit enables the system to adapt to road conditions and enhance the sound accordingly. The BeoSound DB9 in the Volante model even adapts to whether the top is up or down. As usual, the price of entry for the completely unique and custom-engineered sound system is the same as that of an Aston Martin DB9. And though it might seem an odd thing to spend so much time on given the Aston's own phenomenal V12 soundtrack, it's sure to be appreciated by those lucky enough to own one. The previous joint venture between Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen was the BeoSound DBS, built for Aston's car of the same name.Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DB9 audio system for the Aston Martin DB9 Read More

Aston Martin is already one of the most bespoke and prestigious labels on the planet but the company is seriously considering positioning its next-generation models further upmarket to make way for the relaunch of Lagonda. Earlier this month CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez revealed plans to resurrect the Lagonda marque in order to preserve the Aston Martin name for the company’s sports cars and use Lagonda for models with a completely different character, such as a high-end crossover or large premium saloon.

Moving Aston Martin further upmarket would see top-sellers like the DB9 and V8 Vantage priced closer to their rivals from Maranello. At the... Aston Martin is already one of the most bespoke and prestigious labels on the planet but the company is seriously considering positioning its next-generation models further upmarket to make way for the relaunch of Lagonda. Earlier this month CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez revealed plans to resurrect the Lagonda marque in order to preserve the Aston Martin name for the company’s sports cars and use Lagonda for models with a completely different character, such as a high-end crossover or large premium saloon. Moving Aston Martin further upmarket would see top-sellers like the DB9 and V8 Vantage priced closer to their rivals from Maranello. At the same time production volumes would be lowered in an attempt to free up capacity for the Lagonda models and increase exclusivity. This is a strategy that other carmakers are considering as the global auto industry restructures and responds to slowing demand and increased environmental and financial concerns. Fewer cars but with higher prices is a strategy Jaguar is also considering adopting as it weathers the industrial storm. Aston Martin is already establishing some serious upmarket credentials with its upcoming One-77 supercar, which is expected to cost a staggering $1.75 million and limited to a production run of no more than 77 units. Despite recent reports that Aston has attained more than 100 orders for the One-77, an inside source has revealed to AutoWeek that only 25 cars are likely to see production. As for the DB9 and V8 Vantage, both cars are set to be replaced by 2011 and the new-generation models will have to suffice for at least eight years after their respective launches. The current pair account for almost 90% of Aston’s 7,000 sales in the past 12 months and executives are worried that the current volumes can’t be maintained going into the future. One option might be to move the next Vantage closer to the DB9's pricing and move the DB9 closer to the DBS's $277,000 price level. Ferrari's F430 and 599 GTB, for example, command premiums of about $85,000 over the comparable Vantage V8 and DB9. Another issue to consider for Aston Martin is the overlapping nature of the DB9 and the V8 Vantage, which are both essentially two-seater front-engined sports cars (not counting the rear seats in the DB9 since these are only for small children). There has been talk of the possibility of replacing both models with a single mid-engined supercar to reduce manufacturing costs and concentrate on other areas such as the upcoming Rapide, although consolidating these two remains unlikely for now. Aston Martin’s immediate future is to focus on emerging markets such as Russia and China, where customers are more interested in more practical premium four-doors rather than sports cars. The upcoming Rapide will address this issue but, as Bez has pointed out in the past, resurrecting the Lagonda brand is critical.Aston Martin One-77Aston Martin V12 Vantage spy shotsAston Martin Rapide Concept 2007 Read More

One year after making its first public appearance at the 2007 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Aston Martin has confirmed details of a number of enhancements for the company’s flagship DBS, including the introduction of a ‘Touchtronic 2’ automatic transmission.

The car will also be available for the first time with a previously reported Bang & Olufsen audio system, the availability of 2+2 seating and a new lightweight wheel option.

The major introduction, however, is the new gearbox, which will be sold alongside the current six-speed manual. Derived from the same ZF transaxle unit that was developed for the DB9,... One year after making its first public appearance at the 2007 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Aston Martin has confirmed details of a number of enhancements for the company’s flagship DBS, including the introduction of a ‘Touchtronic 2’ automatic transmission. The car will also be available for the first time with a previously reported Bang & Olufsen audio system, the availability of 2+2 seating and a new lightweight wheel option. The major introduction, however, is the new gearbox, which will be sold alongside the current six-speed manual. Derived from the same ZF transaxle unit that was developed for the DB9, the system has been substantially re-engineered to accommodate the uprated performance of the DBS. It features a final drive ratio shortened from 3.15:1 to 3.46:1, aiding quicker acceleration times and an improved performance feel. Additionally, changes to the gearbox calibration aid more aggressive gear shifts and greater usability, while retaining the performance potential of the manual gear box - the 0-100km/h time remains unchanged at 4.3 seconds. Drivers can switch gears manually using a pair of leather-trimmed magnesium alloy paddles mounted on the steering column, and the system also includes a ‘Sport’ mode that is activated by a button on the centre console. The Sport mode includes its own unique throttle map, has quicker shift times, and upshifts at higher engine speeds. Other enhancements to the DBS include the aforementioned Bang & Olufsen BeoSound, availability of 2+2 seating and the introduction of a new 10-spoke 20in forged aluminium wheel design. The optional wheel delivers a total unsprung mass reduction of 8kg versus the standard cast wheel, aiding enhanced handling and improved acceleration and braking performance. It is available in either silver or graphite finishes. The car’s 6.0L V12 engine carries over unchanged, producing 512hp (380kW). The option of the Touchtronic 2 gearbox will cost an additional £3,000 (approximately $5,400) over the price of a manual DBS, which starts at £162,500 in the UK. Pricing and availability for other markets are yet to be announced. Read More