This month, Vulcan bomber XH558 - the last airworthy example of the series - will make its final flight. As a tribute, Aston Martin united the iconic V bomber with its modern automotive namesake with a special fly-past at Elvington Airfield in Yorkshire.
What's special about the Aston?
Production of the Aston Martin Vulcan is limited to 24 cars, each with a V12 engine offering more than 800hp. A range of adjustments are possible, allowing owners to tailor their track day experience to the circuit and driver's skill level.
Aston Martin CEO, Dr Andy Palmer, said: "Clearly the Avro Vulcan provided the inspiration for the naming of our most extreme sports car, and I'm delighted that we have been able to unite the 'two Vulcans' and deliver our own tribute to this world-renowned aeronautical phenomenon."
What's happening to the other Vulcan?
XH558 is doing a farewell tour of fly-pasts before retirement; once it has finished 'active service' the plane will form the centrepiece of the educational Vulcan Aviation Academy & Heritage Centre at Robin Hood Airport near Doncaster.
Vulcan XH558 is flown by Martin Withers DFC, Chief Pilot and Operations Director. He said: "Being at the controls for this unique fly-past was a memorable occasion.
"Personally, it is great to know that the Vulcan name will live on not only in the history books, and at the new educational centre in Yorkshire, but via Aston Martin's incredible new sports car."
Details of Vulcan XH558 and its operations are available on the Trust's website at www.vulcantothesky.org.
John Lambert - 3 Oct 2015
Earlier articles featuring 2015 Aston Martin Vulcan