VH stands for Vertical/Horizontal and is nothing to do with the orientation of the components. 'Vertical' represents the vertical integration of the platforms components both up and down the AM range. 'Horizontal' represents the horizontal spread of platform concept across to the other Ford marques. The really clever thing is that it the outer body panels are not structural allowing for inexpensive restyles; expect more special bodied exclusive variants like the DB7 Zagato in the future.

The DB9 was undoubtedly the star of the 2003 Frankfurt Motor show where it was unveiled to the public for the very first time. The sleek superformed aluminium body was initially designed by Ian Callum but has also been significantly influenced by the next director of AM design, Hendrik Fisker. The DB9 is powered by a third generation version of the now familiar 6.0 litre V12 and has a top speed of 186mph. Production of the coupe started at the new Gaydon factory very early in 2004, with the Volante coming on stream early in 2005.

The Geneva Salon 2005 was the venue for the unveiling of the fabulous V8 Vantage, the first in what will become a very exciting line of two seater sports cars. Production of the 175mph machine begin in the Autumn of 2005 to satisfy the desire of many anxious new owners. A Roadster version was unveiled in November 2006 for production mid way through 2007.

And a potential third model line was first seen at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2006. Unveiled as a running concept, the Rapide is not a Lagonda, but a 4 door hatchback Aston Martin now guaranteed for production for late 2009 potential. Another addition to the quickly growing range is the DBS, a derivative of the DB9, V12 powered and first seen as transport for James Bond in his 21st film Casino Royale. The production car was introduced at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August 2007.

For the time being, the AMOC is referring to the VH architecture (and Vanquish) cars as 'New Era' . This is of course fine for the time being but eventually will stop when something new comes along in perhaps another 6-8 years time. What is without doubt is that from the introduction of the Vanquish, AM truly began a transition that will, in time, represent the most significant event in AM history