A Separate Brand from Aston Martin

Lagonda was originally a British automotive brand founded in 1898. It established a reputation as a prestigious marque, achieving success in motorsports including a win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1935. However, in 1947, it was acquired by the Brown company along with Aston Martin.

Subsequently, the Lagonda name appeared in 1961 as the "Lagonda Rapide," a four-door version of the Aston Martin "DB4," and in 1974 as the "Lagonda," based on the "DBS." Since then, the Lagonda name has referred to Aston Martin's four-door models. However, the "Lagonda Concept" announced this time will be positioned as a brand independent of Aston Martin, appealing to a different customer base.

A V12 Engine Capable of Running on Biofuels

The styling of the Lagonda Concept draws inspiration from speedboats, giving it a distinctly different character from traditional Aston Martin vehicles.

However, the large chrome grille, the independent four-seater layout, and the V12 engine clearly assert this Lagonda's position as a luxury car. Ulrich Bez, head of Aston Martin Lagonda, stated, "Lagonda is the luxury car brand of the future. We will propose a new vision for luxury cars by incorporating new technologies and materials."

While detailed mechanics have not been disclosed, the planned powertrain is a V12 engine compatible with biofuels, with all-wheel drive. Development is also progressing with diesel and hybrid options in consideration for the future.

It has been announced that the Lagonda brand will be sold not only in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, but also in emerging markets such as China and India.

BRAND HISTORY

Currently, the most admired sports car brand worldwide is Britain's ASTON MARTIN. Founded in 1914 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, this small company derived its name from success in the Aston Clinton hill climb competition, leaving a brilliant legacy in the history of motorsports and sports cars.

Conversely, the company has faced numerous financial crises, each time receiving a helping hand, charting a truly tumultuous course. For example, David Brown, who became owner in 1947, left his mark with sports cars like the "DB2" and racing machines like the "DBR1," leveraging his excellent management skills and engineering acumen. More recently, Ford's sale of its shares to a consortium led by David Richards, founder of Prodrive, is still fresh in memory.

However, Aston Martin has consistently pursued the creation of sports cars imbued with potent power and exquisite style throughout its history. The current lineup includes the "V8 Vantage" and "DB9." Furthermore, the new flagship model "DBS," which will succeed the "Vanquish," is expected to arrive in Japan in the near future.