Aston Martin DBX707 becomes F1 safety car

When the lights went out for the start of the 2023 FIA Formula 1 World Championship season in Bahrain in March, the world’s most powerful ultra-luxury SUV, the DBX707, was the new official FIA medical car.

Thanks to the 707’s significant engine, transmission, suspension, and brake upgrades, the drivers of the F1’s medical car will now be able to get the medics to where they are needed faster than before. Supplying the sport’s official cars has supported Aston Martin’s product development, with data gathered from the DBX being driven by a professional driver around the Grand Prix circuits helping its vehicle dynamics’ experts push boundaries while developing the high-performance DBX707.

One of the key upgrades is the introduction of a new wet clutch transmission, providing noticeably faster gearchanges and an improved launch capability known as ‘Race Start’ that is ready and waiting for the call to action from Race Control. Also key to the dynamic feel of the car, Pirelli, Formula 1 Global Tyre Partner, provides specifically developed P Zero tyres underlining the DBX707’s driver-focused credentials.

The DBX707 has been adapted and equipped for its role as the FIA’s official medical car. The essential equipment required – including fire extinguishers, medical bags and a defi brillator – all has its own place in the DBX707’s interior, so it is easy to check everything is on board. The car is fitted with FIA-approved racing seats, each with a six-point racing harness as it will be driven to the limits on the track. The passengers will have access to communications from race control and be able to see not only the FIA marshalling system but biometric data from the F1 drivers and live television images, which will allow early assessment of any incident.

Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin’s chief technology officer, said, “DBX707 is the perfect vehicle for the critical role as an Official FIA Medical Car of Formula 1, providing 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.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Formula 1® and the FIA this season, with the pinnacle of motorsport a perfect environment for Aston Martin to showcase the capabilities of our ultra-luxury high-performance cars. 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.”