What's the news?
It's more a question of what's new, what's old, borrowed and blue as the marriage between Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz seems finally to be heading up the aisle. A letter of intent has been signed today (July 25) between Aston and Mercedes' AMG high-performance arm, which will see the sharing of technology and engines between the two marques.
Mercedes will take a 5% share in Aston, but significantly this gives Aston access to Merc's engine and electronics technology and hardware, just as Aston Martin's existing V8 and V12 units are coming to the end of their lives. Specific mention has been made of the fact that Aston will get hold of AMG's much-lauded V8 engines, which could potentially mean that Aston's big V12 may not be replaced at all, in the search to reduce emissions.
It could potentially be the precursor to a total takeover of Aston by Mercedes, although neither party is taking about that just yet. The presence of investment firm Investdustrial on Aston's board is significant though. It's the same firm that bought up bike maker Ducati and prepped it for sale to Audi.
Anything else?
In the meantime Aston Martin Product Development Director Ian Minards said: "We have selected AMG specifically as the basis for this powertrain development process.
"Aston Martin sources cutting edge technology from key suppliers around the globe and the opportunity to include content from Mercedes-AMG GmbH in our next generation sports cars is, clearly, good news."
He added: "Working with Mercedes-AMG in this way, while, of course, remaining independent and preserving the unique character and style of Aston Martin that has been the mainstay of the company throughout its 100-year history, points to a very bright future for the company as it starts its second century in business."
Ola Källenius, Head of Mercedes-AMG GmbH said: "We are proud to work with Aston Martin and provide them with powertrain and e/e 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."