Aston Martin has carved out a significant niche in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), particularly within the GT class since the program’s inception in 2012. Through collaborations with Prodrive and a focus on building competitive race cars, the British firm has demonstrated a commitment to endurance racing, securing numerous accolades along the way.
Aston Martin and Prodrive: A Collaborative Legacy
Longstanding Partnership
Aston Martin has maintained a fruitful partnership with Prodrive, a firm known for its expertise in motorsport preparation and management. Under this collaboration, Prodrive has been responsible for running Aston Martin’s racing programs effectively. With a multi-year agreement in place, Prodrive will continue to develop and distribute the V8 Vantage GT racer, providing essential support to customer teams competing with the vehicle.
Achievements in WEC
Aston Martin’s legacy in the WEC is marked by significant achievements, totaling 47 class wins, which includes four prestigious victories at the Le Mans 24 Hours. These accomplishments underscore the brand’s competitive spirit and skill in endurance racing.
The Vantage GT: Championing Performance
A World Champion Pedigree
Aston Martin’s Vantage has established itself as a formidable competitor in GT racing. According to Aston Martin’s president, Tobias Moers, the vehicle has “developed its world champion pedigree” since its introduction. The GTE version of the Vantage has notably triumphed in 24-hour races, enhancing its reputation as a reliable and high-performing race car.
Supporting Customer Teams
Aston Martin is dedicated to ensuring that its partners and customer teams have the best resources to succeed. The Vantage GT3 is designed to provide competitive advantages in GT endurance challenges, equipping drivers with the performance needed to compete at the highest levels of motorsport.
Historical Context in Endurance Racing
The Evolution of Aston Martin Racing
Founded in 2004, Aston Martin Racing initially focused on the GT1 class with the DBR9, achieving its first Le Mans class win in 2007. This victory laid the groundwork for Aston’s expansion into higher classifications within endurance racing. However, following challenges in the LMP1 category, Aston Martin shifted its focus back to GT racing as part of the WEC launch in 2012, reaffirming its commitment to this competitive arena.
Conclusion
Aston Martin’s ongoing contributions to the WEC’s GT class exemplify the brand’s dedication to motorsport and its partnership with Prodrive. With a rich history of success, including numerous race wins and a reputation for performance, Aston Martin continues to play a crucial role in the endurance racing landscape. As the company looks to the future, its commitment to the Vantage and customer support will likely keep it competitive against its rivals in this demanding field.
