Aston Martin Valhalla tested at the Nürburgring

30.08.2024

After a long wait, the Aston Martin Valhalla is finally gearing up for its launch, nearly five years after the concept was first revealed in 2019. New images of the British supercar testing at the Nurburgring showcase the updated styling tweaks seen previously at Silverstone. Aston Martin is aiming for a Nurburgring lap time of around 6 minutes and 30 seconds, aiming to outpace the current record holder, the Mercedes-AMG One. This achievement would mark a groundbreaking milestone for Aston Martin, as the Valhalla would be their first-ever series-production mid-engined road car in their 108-year history. Production is set to begin in 2024, with only 999 models to be made. The latest prototype boasts more aggressive aerodynamics and cutting-edge technology from Aston Martin's F1 team. Notable changes from the concept include a modified lip spoiler, redesigned grille, and new headlights inspired by the Aston Martin DBS. Additionally, the wing mirrors have been repositioned for improved aerodynamics.

The Valhalla retains its dramatic vent behind the front wheel, with the side skirts being modified and a different lower vent ahead of the rear wheels. A subtle crease in the roof allows air to flow into the overhead air intake. The prototype features plastic side windows with racecar-like sliders, but production models are expected to come with electric windows. Originally, Aston Martin considered relying on underbody airflow for aerodynamic grip, but now a large diffuser is paired with a bigger rear spoiler. Active aerodynamics, including a movable spoiler, are likely to be included. Rear wing adjustments are visible in the latest images.The rear end of the Valhalla prototype reveals a peculiar exhaust setup with top-exit and diffuser-mounted tips. It's uncertain which layout Aston Martin will choose. The Valhalla is leading Aston Martin's shift from internal combustion to hybrid and ultimately full electrification. The concept's V6 engine has been replaced by a bespoke 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft, capable of revving to 7,200rpm. This engine is similar to the one found in the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series.

The Valhalla is equipped with a duo of electric motors, one on the front axle and one on the rear. Initially boasting a total output of 937bhp for the hybrid system, Aston Martin has now upped it to an impressive 1,003bhp, outperforming the 805bhp output of the new plug-in hybrid Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance. The engine is paired with a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, a first for Aston Martin, which directs power to the rear wheels through an electronically controlled limited-slip differential.

The Valhalla's rear electric motor and V8 petrol unit can operate separately in the transmission gears, resulting in a maximum torque output of 1,000Nm, as per Aston Martin. With the Valhalla's four-wheel drive capability providing added traction, the car accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 350 km/h.

In EV mode, the Valhalla exclusively uses its front electric motor and can reach a top speed of 129 km/h, with an electric-only range of approximately nine miles. Additionally, the Valhalla features an e-reverse gear, conserving weight in the transmission by utilizing electricity for reversing maneuvers.

In different driving modes, the 400V electrical system in the Aston Martin Valhalla distributes power between the electric drive units based on driving conditions. It is possible for up to 100 per cent of the available electrical power to be directed to the rear-mounted motor in specific situations. The specific battery that will be used in the plug-in hybrid system has not been disclosed, but it is likely to be relatively small in order to minimize weight. The Valhalla features an advanced carbon fibre chassis to provide maximum stiffness and keep the overall weight down, with a target dry weight of under 1,550kg.

Aston Martin claims that the Valhalla has benefited greatly from the expertise of its Formula One team, although the exact extent of their involvement in the development of the car is unknown. The Valhalla will incorporate F1-style double wishbone pushrod suspension at the front with inboard springs and dampers, along with a multi-link layout at the rear. The suspension system includes ‟Multimatic Variable Spring Rates and Adaptive Spool Valve Damper units‟ to offer adaptive capabilities for balancing ride comfort and performance on both road and track.

The Valhalla features electrically assisted power steering and Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes with brake-by-wire technology similar to F1 cars. It comes with 20-inch alloy wheels in the front and 21-inch rims in the rear, paired with bespoke Michelin tires. The chassis has a Track mode that stiffens the dampers and lowers the ride height significantly to improve downforce and grip.

The supercar produces 600kg of downforce at 242 km/h and includes active aerodynamics inspired by the Valkyrie hypercar, with adjustable front surfaces and a deployable rear wing. The V8 engine's airbox is fed by a central roof scoop between the dihedral doors’ hinges.

Aston Martin's Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, states that while the Valhalla maintains the design legacy of the Valkyrie, it has evolved significantly in its execution for production. The interior of the Valhalla offers more room compared to the performance-focused Valkyrie, although images have not yet been revealed.

The driver-centric cabin of the Valhalla will feature a new central touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The seats in the Valhalla won't be adjustable, but the wheels and pedals will move to ensure the driver finds their optimal position. The footwells in the Valhalla will be raised higher than usual, similar to the design of the Valkyrie and F1 cars, to improve aerodynamic performance.

Standard equipment in the Valhalla includes adaptive matrix LED headlights, dual-zone air-conditioning, and various driver assistance systems like autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, active cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a rear-view camera with an optional around-view feature.Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll commented on the Valhalla's unveiling in 2021, stating that it marks a significant moment for Aston Martin as their first series production mid-engined supercar. He highlighted the brand's commitment to producing exceptional mid-engined driver-focused cars and the significance of unveiling the Valhalla at the home of the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team during the British Grand Prix.

While pricing for the Valhalla has not been disclosed, its performance suggests it will compete with hypercars like the 1,001bhp Lamborghini Revuelto plug-in hybrid.