Aston Martin launches first SUV built in new St Athan factory
Aston Martin has unveiled its first ever sports utility vehicle (SUV) which has been built in St Athan.
The James Bond car makers secured three Ministry of Defence 'super hangars' for the new factory in the Vale of Glamorgan village in 2016.
An estimated 750 jobs and 1,000 jobs in the wider supply chain and local businesses will be created when the plant becomes fully operational.
The new model will have 'Made in Wales' written on its door plaque and will cost around £160,000.
It is the first vehicle to be manufactured in Wales in almost 50 years.
The Economy Minister Ken Skates said it was a proud moment for Wales.
In 2017 Aston Martin warned it could be forced to halt production of its luxury cars if the UK is unable to secure a deal over Brexit.
Chief financial officer Mark Wilson said the impact of leaving the EU without a trade agreement would be 'semi-catastrophic'.
The luxury car makers hope the DBX, which has a top speed of 191mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds, will boost company sales.
President and chief executive Dr Andy Palmer said its launch is "a real landmark for this great British brand."
It follows a £92.3million pre-tax loss for the company in the past three quarters.
It blamed falling sales in the UK and Europe and limited demand for its entry-level Vantage sports car.
Read more: