The new DBS is based on the DB9 model. Compared to it, the new exclusive model features a reduced weight (-65kg) and a tuned powertrain that develops 510 hp and 570 Nm.

The Aston Martin DBS is powered by the hand-built V12 producing 380kW (510bhp/517PS). The main performance figures are a top speed of 191mph (302km/h) and a 0-62mph (0-100km/h) time of 4.3 seconds.

The DBS will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, near Warwickshire in the UK, joining the current Aston Martin line-up.

The DBS was unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on 16 August 2007 and made its first appearance in the 007 Casino Royale movie.

Deliveries of the DBS are expected start in 2008.

The Design

The DBS is manufactured with a combination of hand-finishing and high-technology processes.

The DBS is is inspired by the past DB2, DB3S and DB4GT, and the current DBR9 and DBRS9 race cars.

The flowing form fuses the visual language of the DBR9 GT1 race car with some elements from the DB series.

Lower and tauter than other Aston Martin production models, the DBS has subtly flared wheel arches accommodating standard 20” diameter wheels and tyres, that give a muscular stance that evokes the DBR9 and DBRS9.

The external details include revised inlets and enlarged grilles, a new five-bar design for the polished alloy main grille, as well as two additional vents in the enlarged power bulge on the carbon-fibre bonnet.

A carbon-fibre splitter and a new front bumper design improve the aerodynamics.

The DBS has widened tracks: to accommodate this additional width, the surfaces of the wings have been sculpted and re-shaped with harder lines, which also serve to emphasise the car’s character.

The lowered ride height is accentuated by the enhanced side sills, carefully profiled to improve aerodynamic performance and reduce drag along the flanks.

The iconic Aston Martin side strake, a design feature of every DB car since the DB4, has been redesigned for the DBS, incorporating a side repeater formed by a bank of LEDs.

The Aston Martin DBS was featured in 007 Casino Royale

Improved aerodynamics shape the rear of the DBS, where the more prominent boot spoiler is carefully incorporated into the carbon-fibre boot lid. A horizontal chrome finisher is set into the lid to accentuate the wide track of the new car. The car's flat undertray helps to improve the aerodynamics of the underbody surface and culminates in a new carbon-fibre rear diffuser, another feature carried over from the race cars. This device creates an area of low pressure beneath the rear of the car, reducing lift and improving high-speed stability without the need for large, unsightly external spoilers. The new one-piece diffuser also incorporates the DBS’s large and distinctive twin exhaust tailpipes.

Interior Design

The interior makes extensive use of lightweight materials: door pulls are made from carbon-fibre and the carpet has been woven with lighter fibres.

Special semi-aniline leather is used throughout the cabin, saving weight as well as giving a soft feel and distinctive aroma.

The primary controls include a new steering wheel profile with a twin-stitched detail marker that indicates the ‘on-centre’ position.

The gear knob is fashioned from polished alloy to echo the metallic finishes on the new centre console.

The instrument cluster is designed with white numerals on a dark graphite background for improved legibility.

The twin-stitch pattern runs through the interior as a signature device.

As an option the DBS may be equipped with specially developed lightweight seats with a carbon-fibre and Kevlar® composite structure, each of them providing a weight saving of 20kg.

The DBS start sequence blends tradition with high technology and a touch of theatre. The ignition ECU (Emotion Control Unit) has evolved into a machined and highly tactile polished sapphire ECU, incorporating a stainless steel inner case. Resembling a fine wristwatch or a piece of contemporary sculptural jewellery, this sapphire ECU epitomises the spirit of the DBS.

The 700W Audio System, with Dolby® Pro Logic II® has been exclusively developed for Aston Martin and is equipped with a six-CD autochanger, located at the top of the console.

(Source: Aston Martin)