Aston Martin Project AM310 Concept previews new DBS

Rolled out over the weekend to little fanfare, the striking Project AM310 gives us a strong indication of what to expect when the new production car is unveiled at California’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August.

The AM310 – and consequently the upcoming Aston Martin DBS successor – is understood to be based on an updated version of the brand’s VH platform, rather than a completely new chassis.

Details of the car’s powertrain remain a secret at this stage, although Aston has confirmed it will carry over the 6.0-litre V12 from the current model. Power is tipped to increase beyond 400kW, putting the new DBS in striking distance of serious supercars like the Ferrari 458 Italia.

As ever, the flagship Aston’s styling will take an evolutionary step forward, with the Project AM310 drawing inspiration from the One-77 supercar. The headlights and grille have been tweaked while the bonnet gets a more muscular bump and the bumper a new aerodynamic grey carbonfibre splitter.

Along the side, the stylised indicators and vent dividers extend deep towards the trademark Aston Martin door handles, while the rear-end gets piercing tail-lights, an integrated spoiler, and a broad, grey carbonfibre diffuser.

Carbonfibre will be used extensively throughout the construction and body panels of the new DBS, reducing weight and increasing its strength and stiffness.

Aston kept the Project AM310 Concept’s interior out of view at Villa d’Este, although we’re expecting a fresh design and new technology when the production car is revealed.

The Aston Martin Project AM310 becomes the third concept car from the Gaydon-based manufacturer to be unveiled at Villa d’Este in recent years, following the One-77 in 2009 and the V12 Zagato in 2011.

Note: Images courtesy of AutoEvolution.