The Aston Martin Valhalla is even better in reality

Back in 2019, Aston Martin announced that they planned to produce two other mid-engine supercars to follow the Valkyrie. At the time they released rendered images of what would become known as the Aston Martin Valhalla. For once, the reality trumps the concept, with a truly driver-focused mid-engined hybrid supercar that is better looking, more powerful and more affordable than expected.

The Aston Martin Valhalla Powertrain

Built with chassis, aerodynamic as well as electronics expertise forged in Formula One^®, and a cutting-edge hybrid powertrain technology at its heart, Valhalla is a formidable technological showcase. Far from engineering the driver out of the loop, Valhalla’s sole focus is immersing them in a new kind of supercar driving experience. One which brings unprecedented excitement, enjoyment, and driver engagement to the top of the supercar sector.

Instead of the expected V6, the mid-engine Valhalla boasts a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 sourced from AMG. The all-new PHEV powertrain features three motors. Foremost is the V8 that revs up to 7200rpm and develops 739 horsepower – it sends drive exclusively to the rear axle through a new eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Supplementing this is a 150kW/400V battery hybrid system with a pair of E-Motors; one mounted on the front axle and the other on the rear axle. The electric system contributes a further 201 horsepower.

Unleashing all 937 horsepower, the Valhalla will reach a top speed of 350km/h. It will complete the sprint from 0-100km/h in just 2.5 seconds.

The company is targeting a 6:30 Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time. This is certainly ambitious considering that the current production-car record set by the Porsche 911 GT2 RS is 6:43.3.

Electric Power

In EV-only mode, Valhalla will be capable of a 130km/h top speed with a zero-emission range of 15km. When driven in EV mode battery power is directed exclusively to the front axle. In other driving modes battery power splits between the front and rear axles. Of course, the percentage sent to each axle constantly varies according to driving demands. In certain situations, the rear axle receives 100% of battery power, supplementing the ICE V8 for maximum performance.

Electrical power also enhances low-speed control and response as well as providing reversing capability. And, thanks to the instantaneous torque from the E-Motors, the hybrid system augments the V8 engine to deliver sensational standing start acceleration and in-gear response. The E-Motor and V8 ICE can run different gears in the DCT simultaneously, aiding outright performance and enabling a maximum torque delivery of 1000Nm.

Responsiveness

In terms of its structure, Valhalla features a new carbon fibre tub for maximum stiffness with a minimum weight penalty.

Formula One® style pushrod front suspension reduces unsprung mass and provides a brilliant packaging solution.

The carbon tub’s inherent rigidity allows for absolutely precise control of loadings. Every minute input to the electric power-assisted steering translates into an immediate and intuitive direction change.

High-performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes with brake-by-wire technology guarantee exceptional stopping power. Bespoke Michelin tyres (20in front, 21in rear) developed specifically for Valhalla provide a final and all-important layer of excellence.

This intimate, uncorrupted connection between driver and car sits at the core of the Valhalla experience. Advanced materials and electronics serve only to enhance the driver’s enjoyment, confidence and sense of complete control.

Design

Valhalla will be available in both left-hand and right-hand drive, expanding its appeal across international markets. Compared to the Aston Martin Valkyrie there is more cockpit room. However, many Formula One® inspired hallmarks will remain. The pared-back cockpit design with clear, simple ergonomics unashamedly focusses around the driver. An innovative new Aston Martin HMI system features a central touchscreen display and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Thanks to adjustable pedals and steering column, seat bases remain fixed to the chassis structure. The raised footwells deliver a low hip-to-heel seating position redolent of a Formula One^® car.

Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, believes that Valhalla provides an opportunity for the Aston Martin design team to express extreme performance with fresh form and proportion, and to capture the brand’s bold future-forward approach. “When we created the Valhalla concept we were keen to emphasise the design legacy of the Aston Martin Valkyrie and that intent remains unchanged, but the execution has evolved considerably in order to reach production of this all-new car. Though the legacy of Valkyrie is clear, Valhalla is now a more mature, fully resolved piece of design. One which combines the pure aerodynamic function you would expect from a marque competing in Formula One^® together with the beautiful form, striking proportions and the exemplary detailing for which Aston Martin is renowned.”

Full LED Matrix headlights, with adaptive functionality and high-beam-assist, deliver excellent forward-vision in the dark. Dual Zone Air Conditioning provides a high level of occupant comfort.  Valhalla also incorporates the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including Auto Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Active Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear View Parking Camera (with Surround View option).

Dynamics

Aston Martin’s award-winning dynamics team is in charge of the dynamic development of the Valhalla. An enviable pool of talent including Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team drivers Sebastian Vettel, Lance Stroll and Nico Hulkenburg will give their invaluable perspective to the project and bring added authenticity to a car that boasts such a clear connection to Aston Martin’s Grand Prix machines. 

Valhalla is a new generation Aston Martin. It defines a new driver and driving experience – ‘the Mastery of Driving’ – a true ultra-luxury, exclusive, British supercar. At an estimated price of $800 000, it will be a surprisingly affordable one too.

Visit the Aston Martin website to register your interest.