The recently launched Aston Martin Vantage will join the Formula 1 world as an official Safety Car starting in Saudi Arabia this weekend.

The new Vantage, specially equipped for the job, will lead the 20 competing cars on the formation lap before taking its place at the exit of the pit lane and intervening when necessary.

Thanks to its 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine, the new Vantage is 30% more powerful than the previous model and required no engine, cooling system or braking alterations to prepare it for its role as an FIA Safety Car. It has, however, been modified with an extended and profiled front splitter for increased aerodynamics and a new, bespoke rear wing for extra downforce. Rapidly cooling tyres will help it maintain performance whilst leading some of motorsports’ most powerful cars.

Bernd Mayländer will be behind the wheel of the Vantage Safety Car sitting in newly replaced Pole Position Seats to keep him and his passenger firmly in place with the whole interior finished in a Lime Essence colour - a nod to Aston’s own racing colours. Also fitted is a bespoke centre console with switchgear to work the FIA systems alongside screens to show live lap times. Track positioning of the cars can be viewed on screen as well as on the rearview camera.

You can see the new Aston Martin Vantage Safety Car at the upcoming Saudi Arabia Grand Prix alongside the DBX707 Medical Car. Both will be clad in Aston Martin Racing Green, the most popular colour choice of Aston customers and the same used by the Aston Martin F1 Team.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Aston Martin