A Closer Look At the Aston Martin Valhalla
The Aston Martin Valhalla has set the standards for supercars all the way up in the sky. Aston Martin’s Valhalla […]
Monza Staff
The Aston Martin Valhalla has set the standards for supercars all the way up in the sky.
Aston Martin’s Valhalla is a one-of-a-kind machine unlike anything before. It is the first V8, mid-engine, hybrid supercar developed by Aston Martin. The development of the vehicle from a concept to a production-ready product is still underway. To offer an utterly driver-focused experience, the company brings intensity to the driver’s seat to make the experience as intense as possible, infusing perfection into every part, pore, and particle of the body. With only 999 examples, this is the most comprehensive rewrite of what it means to be best-in-class in terms of driving dynamics and driving pleasure.
Using the knowledge and lessons from Formula 1, Valhalla is considered to be at the forefront of the transition from internal combustion engines to hybrids to fully electric vehicles. Valhalla packs the power of over 986 horses as a plugin hybrid, fuel-efficient vehicle. The Valhalla is an evolution of Aston Martin’s ground-breaking Valkyrie, a car representing elite performance’s ultimate balance. A complete carbon fiber structure is combined with sophisticated design materials to create an outstanding result. Valhalla by Aston Martin is a prime example of the exquisite driving dynamics packed in a machine.
The Undying British Spirit
Valhalla is equipped with an all-new plugin hybrid powertrain with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine mounted at the car’s rear. As a result, this engine has the most advanced, responsive, and highest-performing V8 engine ever fitted to an Aston Martin, revving to a maximum of 7200 rpm and producing over 789 horsepower. In order to increase the power output of the brand-new V8 engine, a hybrid system contributes 150kW/400V battery power, adding another 201 HP, resulting in a combined output of over 986 horsepower fire breathing engine. In just 2.5 seconds, Valhalla can soar to a top speed of 217 mph and can achieve a 0 to 62 mph run in just 2.5 seconds.
The Expertly Crafted Dynamics
To provide maximum stiffness and minimum weight, the Valhalla has been designed around a full carbon fiber tub to achieve a dry weight of less than 1550 kg. To ensure unmatched driving dynamics and based on the manufacturer’s learnings from the involvement in Formula 1TM, it features a Formula 1TM style push rod front suspension. Using inboard springs and dampers reduces the vehicle’s unsprung mass, thereby providing the most efficient packaging solution and reducing the unsprung mass. Valhalla’s trademark Michelin tires are equipped with high-performance carbon ceramic matrix brakes that ensure exceptional stopping power when needed and are also supported by its uniquely developed carbon ceramic-matrix brakes.
Aston Martin has confirmed that the Valhalla will be equipped with an eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission, developed and built specifically with a focus on hybrid performance vehicles. A full electric reverse mode has been integrated into the car, utilizing the two e-motors, which are available for the rear axle, and an electronic limited-slip differential on both axles. By doing so, the conventional reverse gear can be eliminated, as a result reducing the weight of the vehicle.
The Jaw-Dropping Performance Numbers
Possibly the most impressive performance-related number of the Valhalla is the lap time the team is targeting for the Nürburgring of just 6 minutes and 30 seconds. The AMG GT Black Series holds the current record; if this track were surpassed, it would shave off 13 seconds from the current record.
Additionally, despite the complexity of its powertrain, the car weighs less than 3,417 lbs on the scales before the addition of fluids, making it lighter than one might expect from a vehicle of its stature. It is estimated that the new body of the electrified supercar would generate 1,322 pounds at 150 mph due to its active aerodynamics on it.
There is no doubt that the PHEV setup has been designed primarily to meet the driver’s demands. Due to this, it comes as no surprise that the battery pack only has enough juice to provide a range of 9 miles. It is estimated that the Valhalla will be able to reach a maximum speed of 80 mph when the engine is off, and the ICE is turned off. Like the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, the Valhalla can also be used as a front-wheel drive vehicle in EV mode. The company estimates that combined emissions will be below .71 lb/mile WLTP, which is quite remarkable for a bona fide V8 supercar, especially for an Aston Martin.
Although there is no official information about the interior of this car, it can be assumed that it will be a piece of art. No customization options have been revealed yet either but considering the reputation of Aston Martin, they may very well be a part of the offering in the future. Lastly, there will only be 999 Valhallas to roll off Aston Martin’s production unit.