The open cockpit creation - 2011 AMR-One

The open cockpit creation - The Prodrive-run Aston Martin racing launches the ‘full of surprises’ 2011 AMR-One

Designed and manufactured by Prodrive’s engineers in Banbury, the AMR-One is a perfect example of a prestige motorsport creation, and is most certainly the birth of something special.

This is the first time Prodrive has designed a race chassis and engine, which are not based on a production car not forgetting the purpose-designed monstrous machine; 2.0 litre six cylinder turbocharged direct injection petrol engine, also designed by Prodrive’s talented engineers. Designed to perfection, Aston Martin Racing believes they can demonstrate how a small team with high standards can be extremely competitive. “Aston Martin’s heritage is deeply rooted in endurance sports car racing, so in 2011, we take the next step demonstrating that a small team using advanced design and engineering intelligence will be agile and competitive.” Aston Martin chief executive, Dr. Ulrich Bez said.

Based on the new 2011 regulations instigated by the Le Mans governing body; Aston Martin Racing chose to design an open cockpit car. Other features include: the new-fin, a down sized engine in keeping with the championship’s efficiency regulations, and is rear wheel drive as power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed transverse semi-automatic Xtrac racing gearbox. Six cars are to be built as the team will run the AMR-One in the intercontinental Le Mans Cup.



The AMR-One



The beautifully designed championship contender has been is partly down to the close link with Aston Martin’s in-house design teams engineering showcase; the road going One-77; both of which share similar philosophies. “Just like the road cars, the AMR-One has been elegantly engineered where simplicity runs throughout to produce what we expect to be a competitive and reliable endurance car.” Prodrive chairman, David Richards said.

Prodrive- Aston Martin Racing are confident that the AMR-One will serve them well in the up-coming 2011 championship with some competitive racing from both the drivers and the car. “Our hopes are high that we’ll see the closest racing yet in the premiere LMP1category.” Team principal, George Howard – Chappell said.

By Sophie Williamson