Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin’s drive towards a greener future has taken a significant leap forward, thanks to a £6 million (INR 66.49 crore) grant from the UK Government. The funding, awarded through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), will back the development of 100% recycled aluminium castings for future Aston Martin vehicles as part of the groundbreaking Project Pivot.
Project Pivot is a collaborative effort involving five key partners, led by Coventry-based aluminium supplier Sarginsons. This cutting-edge initiative aims to transform the casting industry by introducing fully recycled aluminium into the production process, significantly reducing the weight, carbon footprint, and overall environmental impact of automotive manufacturing.
The funding comes at a pivotal moment for Aston Martin, as the iconic carmaker intensifies its focus on sustainability. The £6 million grant will help drive the research and development needed to introduce lighter, more eco-friendly aluminium alloys into future models, aligning with the brand’s long-term sustainability vision, aptly named “Racing. Green.”
Aston Martin’s Group Chief Technology Officer, Roberto Fedeli, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This funding is a crucial boost for Project Pivot, enabling us to explore advanced metal solidification techniques and digital-twin simulations to create low-carbon alloys. Our goal is to significantly increase the level of recycled materials in Aston Martin models, and this project brings us one step closer to that vision.”
The grant also reinforces Aston Martin’s membership in Drive Sustainability, a global partnership of automotive manufacturers working to enhance the social, ethical, and environmental performance of supply chains. Aston Martin joined the initiative in August, further cementing its commitment to sustainable practices.
Ian Constance, Chief Executive of the APC, highlighted the importance of this project for the UK’s automotive industry. “These innovative collaborations are vital in showcasing the UK’s leadership in sustainable automotive production. By focusing on recycled materials, advanced electronics, and intelligent software systems, we are not only supporting the sector’s move towards net-zero emissions but also reinforcing its attractiveness as a global investment opportunity,” Constance noted.
The funding will also complement Aston Martin’s ongoing shift toward alternative powertrains. As part of its blended powertrain strategy, the automaker is preparing to launch plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles. The highly anticipated Valhalla, its first fully electrified model, is slated for full production later this year, with deliveries expected to begin in 2025.
With this latest funding injection, Aston Martin continues to position itself at the forefront of sustainable luxury, ensuring that its iconic cars remain as environmentally conscious as they are high-performance.