Aston extends Red Bull tie-up
More models due
Aston Martin is set to produce more high-performance models in the spirit of the Valkyrie hypercar after strengthening its partnership with Red Bull Racing — and is seriously considering a Formula 1 engine programme for 2021.
The British firm has sponsored Red Bull’s F1 squad since 2016 as part of a tie-up that involved Red Bull designer Adrian Newey penning the Valkyrie. This relationship has now been expanded in a deal that will involve the two firms collaborating on more products and Aston serving as the F1 team’s title sponsor.
No details have been disclosed about what products Aston and Red Bull will collaborate on, but Aston referred to the Valkyrie as the “first in a line of incredible products” resulting from the agreement, suggesting similar limited-run machines could eventually follow.
A new Aston Martin Advanced Performance Centre will open later this year at Red Bull Racing’s Milton Keynes HQ. It will be a base for engineers working on sports cars and a design centre and employ around 110 Aston staff.
Although the F1 team will be known as Aston Martin Red Bull Racing next year, it will still use Renault engines, branded Tag Heuer units. However, Aston CEO Andy Palmer has confirmed an interest in entering the sport as an engine manufacturer in 2021, when new technical rules are set to be introduced. Aston Martin has been in talks with other manufacturers and F1’s governing body about the new rules. Palmer said any Aston entry was dependent on firm cost controls being put in place. He said: “We are not about to enter an engine war with no restrictions in cost or dynamometer hours, but if the FIA can create the right environment, we would be interested in getting involved.”