215,000 kms of adventure, and counting.

“KR05 YWU” is a very early (chassis #41) 2005 V8 Vantage and was CEO Dr Ulrich Bez’s company car, with its left-hand drive being perfect for frequent journeys between Gaydon and his family home in Dusseldorf, Germany.

In summer 2006, to mark production of Aston Martin’s 30,000th car, this car was driven by 30 employees, 30,000 miles in 30 days, with Dr Bez driving the first stint from the Nürburgring 24 Hours.

Project 30,000 finished with the car taking pride of place on Aston Martin’s stand at the 2006 British Motor Show. In October 2006, just 14 months from new, the car pushed through 100,000 km.

Aston Martin then modified the car for its biggest challenge to date, including raising the suspension, adding underbody protection, boot storage for spare wheel and fuel, and a hidden safe for valuables.

In summer 2007 “KR05 YWU” became the first car to drive the full length of the newly endorsed Asia Highway Network from Tokyo to Istanbul, and on to London. This adventure was documented in the book ‘Driven Together’.

Aston Martin sold the car at Bonhams auction in December 2007, with all proceeds donated to UNICEF. Used more sparingly since as part of an enthusiast’s private collection, it reached 200,000 km in 2013.

In July 2021 Phil became only the 3rd owner from new, after his son Will spotted the car while they were attending a Porsche evening at Duke of London. Work commenced to get the car sorted, while enjoying it along the way.

Summer 2022 was bookended by CarFests North and South, providing a great opportunity to show the car off to enthusiastic crowds. And planning got into full gear for the Vantage World Tour.

Now nicknamed Krosy, the car left the Royal Automobile Club in February 2023 for its biggest challenge yet, a circumnavigation of the world.