Aston Martin to Create a Three-Man Submersible

It looks like James Bond might finally have an Aston Martin that can go underwater as the British carmaker, together with Triton Submarines, has unveiled the design of a submersible, with the first production model to debut later this year. For months, both Aston Martin and Triton have collaborated to design the submersible, from its hydrodynamics and styling to its interior packaging. For the vehicle to bear Aston Martin's wings, it should have "the performance, beauty and elegance one has come to expect from the British marque," and for it to have Triton's signature trident, the submersible "must be safe, reliable and offer its passengers near 360º visibility." Called Project Neptune, the submersible can dive to 500 meters and carry two passengers and a pilot. It also has a sprint speed of over 5 knots (nine kph). "The exterior design of Project Neptune owes a lot to the pursuit of performance," said Aston Martin EVP and Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman. "As with the Aston Martin Valkyrie, the hyper-car we are developing with Red Bull Advanced Technologies, we have afforded as much attention to the hydrodynamics of the underside as we have the visible surfaces. Some of that detail may never be seen, but its effect will certainly be felt." "The work we have done together on the exterior of the submersible pleases me most," added Triton Submarines Chief Technical Officer John Ramsay. "I'm particularly proud of our joint development of the acrylic canopy and iridium coating. The prototypes look incredible, being simultaneously functional and beautiful. The interior is quintessentially Aston Martin--a luxurious mix of hand-stitched leather and high-performance carbon fiber, assembled without obstructing the panoramic sight-lines that Triton submersibles are famous for."