James Bond Novel Reportedly Barred From Using Aston Martin

A new James Bond spin-off novel writer has reportedly been forbidden from using Aston Martin vehicles, highlighting the ongoing complexities of 007 brand licensing between films and books.

Mon Jun 01 2026

James Bond Novel Faces Aston Martin Ban

Vaseem Khan, the author of a new James Bond spin-off novel, claims he was prohibited from featuring an Aston Martin in his upcoming work. Khan, chosen by the Ian Fleming estate to pen a series focusing on Q, stated he was granted creative freedom for character development and crafting new storylines, but with certain restrictions. Among these was the explicit ban on using Aston Martins. For decades, the Aston Martin has been an iconic vehicle synonymous with James Bond, becoming an almost inseparable symbol of the 007 brand.

Film and Book Rights Managed Separately

The strong association between Aston Martin and James Bond largely stems from the films, rather than the original novels. Over the years, this automotive partnership has evolved into a valuable cinematic trademark. The recent Amazon acquisition of MGM—the studio controlling the Bond film series—for a billion dollars is believed to be a significant factor in these complex licensing arrangements. With film and book rights managed separately, and as a new Bond film develops and the search for the next 007 actor progresses, the custodians of the Bond brand appear determined to keep their most valuable assets under strict control. Consequently, while Q may still have access to extraordinary gadgets in the new novels, one of the world's most famous cars will reportedly remain firmly parked, at least in the literary universe.