Britain’s Aston Martin and Germany’s Mercedes-AMG are joining forces on a technical basis.
Both companies have officially announced a partnership where future Aston Martin models will use bespoke V8s developed using AMG technology and Mercedes-Benz electrical components.
The deal also means that Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler AG gets 5 per cent equity in Aston Martin and a non-voting position on the company’s Board of Management.
Currently the two carmakers have only signed a letter of intent but a definitive agreement will be signed later in the year.
Ola Kallenius, Head of Mercedes-AMG: “We are proud to work with Aston Martin and provide them with powertrain and electrical components for their forthcoming sports cars.
“This is proof of AMG’s technological and performance expertise and a real win-win situation for both sides.”
Aston Martin Product Development Director Ian Minards said it selected AMG specifically for powertrain development.
“Aston Martin sources cutting edge technology from key suppliers around the globe and the opportunity to include content from Mercedes-AMG in our next generation sports cars is, clearly, good news.”
Aston Martin’s V8 and V12 engines are now built by Ford at its plant in Cologne, Germany. The Ford deal was recently extended for another five years, meaning the fruits of the Mercedes-AMG agreement aren’t likely to be seen for a few years yet.