P1racenews AI automatic summary:
New 656bhp Aston Martin F1 safety car breaks cover in Bahrain
Since 2021, safety car duties have been split between Mercedes with its 720bhp AMG GT Black Series and the Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition, which is less powerful and heavier. Max Verstappen criticized the slower Vantage as a “turtle” during the 2022 Australian Grand Prix, calling for investigation. Aston Martin is set to introduce an upgraded safety car this season with more power and improved features. The new Vantage will debut at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, featuring design and performance enhancements. Aston Martin’s F1 team also showcases branding from Aramco, the Saudi state oil company. Additionally, Aston provides the upgraded 707 model as the F1 medical car, upgrading from the standard DBX SUV.