Just over four years since Aston Martin (astonmartin.com)announced its investment in a brand new manufacturing facility at St Athan, the first Aston Martin to be “Made in Wales” has been driven off the production line.

The culmination of an extensive development programme that began ‘virtually’ in 2015 with physical testing taking place in Wales in 2018, DBX signals a new era as Aston Martin enters the SUV segment.

Keith Stanton, Aston Martin interim chief operating officer, said: “It is a real privilege to witness the completion of the first production Aston Martin DBX. I am extremely proud of the Aston Martin team who have worked so hard to transform this ex-Ministry of Defence site into a world-class car manufacturing facility, to now be producing cars, it is testament to the resilience and fortitude of everyone.

“It is an honour to see the first DBX come off the line and my only regret is that everyone who works for this incredible brand can’t be here to witness it.”

Marek Reichman, Aston Martin executive vice president and chief creative officer, said: “We are incredibly proud of our first SUV, which is as much of an Aston Martin as any one of our sports cars.

“From my design team to the engineers, the vehicle dynamics team and all the experts who hand-craft this beautiful car, here at St Athan, the DBX has become the car that will drive Aston Martin into a bold new era.”

Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said: “This is a historic moment for Aston Martin and for Wales. It is also a huge win for the Welsh Government’s can-do attitude.

“The DBX is an exceptional vehicle from one of the world’s most luxury car brands, and it will be central to this iconic company’s growth plan and ambitions for the future.”

First deliveries of the DBX to customers start later this month.