Aston Martin developing eco-friendly supermini

The British car manufacturer, whose models include the 6.0-litre DBS driven by Daniel Craig in the blockbuster film Quantum of Solace, is breaking with tradition to create a 1.0-litre hatchback - reports The Telegraph.

Called the Cygnet, the new car will lack the performance that Aston drivers have become accustomed to over the company's 94-year history.

Unlike the DBS, which can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds, it will take the supermini all of 14.7 seconds.

However, due to its low emissions, the Cygnet will be the marque's first car to qualify for the cheapest tax band.

The car is based on Toyota's IQ city car but is given the Aston Martin makeover with a sporty grille, alloy wheels, and luxury interior.

Reflecting its diminutive size, the Cygnet will cost a fraction of its high-powered siblings, such as the £160,000 DBS, by selling for around the £20,000 mark.

Aston Martin hopes to appeal to existing customers who want a "green" vehicle as a run around, while reserving their supercars, such as the DB9 or Vantage, for longer journeys.

It aims to shift around 4,000 of them a year after they go on sale next year.

But, the catch is that the eco-friendly cars will only be available to customers who are buying or already own an Aston Martin.

Aston Martin's chief executive, Dr Ulrich Bez, developed the vehicle with Toyota's new president Akio Toyoda.

Dr Bez told The Sun: "Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this bold step."

The firm's plant in Gaydon, Warwickshire, will benefit as workers there will be tasked with carrying out the "transformation" work to create the Cygnet.

Thanks to `kyvan` for the alert.

Discuss this news here...