Fusing the performance-driven methodologies and technologies of Formula 1 with spectacular design and scintillating driving dynamics, the Aston Martin Valhalla is a supercar of extraordinary scope. With development now at an advanced stage the time has come to reveal full details of Aston Martin’s landmark mid-engined hybrid supercar.
As befits the ultimate driver’s supercar, Valhalla is a car of ‘firsts’: Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engined supercar and first plug-in hybrid, delivering the marques first production vehicle with dedicated EV range capability. It is also the first model to use the bespoke 4.0-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 engine – the highest performing V8 engine ever fitted to an Aston Martin – and is the first to use the brand’s all-new 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which incorporates an e-Motor and electronic rear differential (E-diff).
Valhalla also debuts a fresh design language. Extreme supercar performance expressed with fresh form and proportion, it bears the unmistakable Aston Martin hallmarks of flawless, uncorrupted lines and combines them with innovative high-downforce active aerodynamics. Close collaboration with Aston Martin Performance Technologies (AMPT) – the consulting arm of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team – on dynamics, aerodynamics and materials have brought an extra dimension of knowledge and skills to the Valhalla’s design and development. This vital contribution has aided Aston Martin to push the boundaries of supercar engineering and performance to deliver a car which shines on road and thrives on track.
Aston Martin will build 999 units, with deliveries expected by the second half of 2025.
TECHINCAL OVERVIEW
This relentless pursuit of excellence has seen Valhalla’s specification evolve significantly from the original concept with significant gains achieved in power output, downforce and dynamic capability. Central to this is Valhalla’s best-in-class 1079PS and 1100Nm of torque hybrid powertrain comprising an 828PS 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and three electric motors (two of which drive the front axle) contributing a further 251PS. The Internal Combustion Engine, (ICE) produces 207PS/litre, the highest specific output from any Aston Martin. An all-new 8-speed DCT transmission sends drive to the rear axle, delivering split-second shift times and a thrilling shift character. Performance targets include 0-100kp/h (62mph) acceleration in 2.5 seconds and an electronically limited 350km/h (217mph) maximum speed.
Active aerodynamics informed by the revolutionary Aston Martin Valkyrie generate in excess of 600kg of downforce. This figure is reached at 240km/h (149mph) and then maintained all the way to Valhalla’s 350km/h (217mph) maximum speed by using active aerodynamics to gradually reduce the front and rear wings’ angle of attack to ‘bleed’ excess downforce as speed rises, thereby keeping the aerodynamic balance consistent across a broad performance envelope for maximum driver confidence.
Sophisticated Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVC) electronics monitor suspension, braking, steering, active aerodynamics and powertrain systems to achieve optimal performance and driver connection in every situation. Working in harmony with Valhalla’s four driver selectable drive modes, IVC continually shapes Valhalla’s dynamic character by monitoring vehicle behaviour and driver demands. Through precise calibration this immensely complex and sophisticated system delivers an organic, natural feeling driving experience. One which effortlessly and seamlessly ups its game to achieve new heights of performance and driver engagement.
On start-up, Valhalla selects Sport mode as default, with the driver able to manually select Pure EV, Sport+ and Race as alternative drive modes. Each mode has its own combination of settings for powertrain (including Torque Vectoring and hybrid system integration), plus suspension stiffness, active aero, and steering calibration for distinct driving characters. In pure EV mode, drive is from the front-axle motors only with a range of 14km and a top speed limited to 140km/h (80mph).
With the four defined drive modes, drivers can select their chosen mode via the rotary in the center stack. A tactile control, for maximum interaction between driver and machine. Each drive mode is purposefully calibrated to give the driver a distinct and differentiated experience. In pure EV, silent on start-up, and the mode we imagine customers to start and end their journey. As the battery depletes its state of charge, Valhalla will automatically switch from EV to Sport. Sport engages the 4.0-litre Twin-Turbo V8 engine and drives Valhalla as a hybrid supercar, combining the instantaneous torque of the electrified front axle with the exhilarating power of the V8. Dialing up the theatre into Sport +, Valhalla is maximised for dynamic thrill on the open road. Race mode is all about ultimate performance, focused for the racetrack, and engaging the active aerodynamics.
In pure EV, Sport and Sport+ modes, the active rear wing remains stowed to maintain Valhalla’s elegant silhouette. In Race mode, the rear T-Wing raises by 255mm on powerful hydraulic rams for maximum downforce. In conjunction with the distinctive and active rear wing, Valhalla employs a concealed active front wing, just ahead of the front axle, a component that is essential to how Valhalla controls the air in Race mode. A technical triumph, developed with a single mechanism to control and manage airflow across multiple surfaces, the active front wing is set to minimise drag in its default position. When Race mode is selected the front wing shifts to maximum downforce mode with full range of movement including, an automated DRS function when the vehicle determines it needs to bleed of downforce. Under braking, when in Race mode, the rear wing will dominantly deploy as an air brake, working in tandem with the active front wing to shift the balance of pressure and ensure optimal stability when delivering incredible braking performance.
ACTIVE AERODYNAMICS
The aerodynamic approach to Valhalla starts in a similar way to an F1 car, by using all elements of the body shape to generate downforce and minimise drag. However, Valhalla is not restricted by F1 regulations so it can benefit from fully active aerodynamic systems at both the front and rear of which will generate in excess of 600kg of downforce at 240km/h (149mph). Valhalla employs an integrated system of Active Aerodynamics which combines moveable aerodynamic surfaces with precise management of underbody airflow. This enables Valhalla to adapt front and rear downforce to maximise grip, balance and consistency, or reduce drag depending on the situation and the driving mode selected. This enables drivers to extract the very best from Valhalla’s chassis and tyres, across the full performance range of the car.
This powerful system is the key to generating high downforce for maximum cornering capability and braking stability, with the added benefit of DRS to achieve a towering 350 km/h (217mph) top speed. To do this Valhalla uses powerful and near-instantaneous hydraulic actuation to control the active aerodynamics, the rear wing working in conjunction with concealed active front wing to maintain an optimal aero-balance. Behind the front splitter the under-floor surface is concave, creating a low-pressure area that generates downforce. Valhalla’s front wing is a unique piece of engineering that is bespoke to Aston Martin and Valhalla. The movement on the front wing, controls the downforce of the wing itself and the air flow to the underfloor vanes. The front wing also has an integrated cooling bypass to save additional drag at high speed when Valhalla does not need as much cooling.
Taking information from Valhalla’s Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) electronics system, the active rear dual element ‘T’ wing continually adjusts to optimize downforce, reduce drag or minimise braking distance in Race mode. In Sport and Sport+ modes the rear wing remains stowed to preserve Valhalla’s sleek and elegant profile, only deploying when Race mode is activated.
Having both front and rear active aerodynamic mechanisms allows Valhalla to have excellent control of the downforce distribution between front and rear axles, this is crucial for stability and vehicle performance.
The multi element rear wing lies flat to create the beautiful clean lines of the car, whilst generating a baseline level of downforce with minimal drag. In Race mode the rear wing extends upwards by 255mm, with Valhalla’s electronic systems adjusting the angle of the wing to ensure optimal balance for any given dynamic scenario. When Valhalla is subjected to heavy braking demands the active aerodynamics use the rear wing as an air brake, altering the angle of attack in under 0.5 seconds to increase drag. This is conjunction with the concealed front wing, shifts the aero balance and centre of pressure to maximise braking stability.
Valhalla’s meticulously sculpted aerodynamic surfaces are operating at peak performance to generate in excess of 600kg of downforce, enough for high-speed cornering ability and stability under acceleration and braking. From 240km/h (149mph) the downforce is kept at a consistent level and actively managed to remain at that figure all the way to Valhalla’s electronically limited 350km/h (217mph) maximum speed, with the rear wing’s angle of attack gradually trimmed as speed increases to reduce drag while maintaining elevated and consistent dynamic behavior over the widest possible operating window. Maintaining a consistent downforce figure above 240km/h (149mph) gives the driver an assured sense of stability and predictability as they explore the outstanding dynamic potential of the car.
DESIGN: EXTERIOR
Freed from the necessity for a fixed wing, Valhalla’s predominantly carbon fibre body evolves the ethos of form following function to embody a new era of efficient performance and true beauty.
Dramatic forward-hinged dihedral doors add supercar theatre but thoughtful design and engineering of the monocoque and doors – specifically lowered sills, roof cut-outs in the roof and a forward A-pillar position – significantly eases ingress and egress. Creating a class leading opening, the dihedral hinge takes the door up and away from the driver and passenger, allowing the user to easily drop into the bespoke carbon fibre seats and swing their legs into the cabin effortlessly. The doors also incorporate one of Valhalla’s most innovative aerodynamic features. Called the door turning vane, airflow exiting the front wheel arch is directed down Valhalla’s flanks and into ducts which improve performance of the V8 engine and transmission oil coolers by 50%. The inner surface of the door outer is sculpted to serve as a duct, allowing air to flow inside the door, passing along the sides of the car and into the cooling ducts for engine and transmission. This keeps the outer surface clean and free from visible scoops and intakes.
Rising from the sleek roof is an F1 inspired roof snorkel, directing air to multiple places including two engine intake paths, air to air intercoolers and an engine bay cooing duct. The roof scoop is flanked by wing-like opening panels giving access to fuel, oil and coolant fillers for the engine and charging ports for the plug-in hybrid battery. Far from compromising its immaculate surfacing these functional features are amongst Valhalla’s many intelligent details.
The quad exhaust system comprises a pair of top-exit tailpipes to maximise visual and aural drama, with an additional pair of low-mounted tailpipes flanking the underbody venturi tunnels. The lightweight exhaust system optimises the flow of exhaust gases and shapes Valhalla’s sound character; the low-mounted tailpipes being managed by active valves.
The rear of the car is dominated by two large venturi tunnels, accelerating the airflow under the car and generating downforce delivering a perfect balance of dramatic form and aerodynamic function. A design signature of Aston Martin hypercars and special projects, the 3D dimensional light blades protrude through a rear mesh panel, the pattern for which has been designed to allow hot airflow to be extracted from the back of the car.
Valhalla’s beauty is more than skin-deep. For example, a tenfold efficiency increase has been achieved in a simplified design for the front clamshell assembly. Originally comprised of 20 separate components made from a mix of aluminium and carbon fibre, the production assembly is made from just two individual carbon fibre pieces and 7kg lighter than the original design whilst integrating the structure and aero ducting.
The carbon fibre body is available either painted or as exposed carbon. Customers have the option to tailor Valhalla’s exterior with a choice of upper or lower pack to add visual carbon fibre. In addition, all exterior carbon panels can be specified in a choice of gloss or satin lacquer. For maximum impact this lacquer can also be specified with a choice of red, blue or green tint. Valhalla can also be optioned in a choice of six bespoke livery themes inspired by Aston Martin’s heritage in various motorsport formula.
A choice of two designs of wheel gives scope for further personalisation. A forged aluminum wheel is available in three finishes; liquid titanium, textured black matte, satin black/ diamond turned and is fitted with bespoke AML coded 285/30 ZR20 front and 335/35 ZR21 rear Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres. For those who wish to express Valhalla’s extreme performance, an ultra-lightweight magnesium wheel (which save a total of 12kg of unsprung mass) is available in either textured titanium and satin black and fitted with track focused Michelin Pilot Sport CUP 2 tyres for maximum cornering performance.
DESIGN: INTERIOR
Formula One influences found in the extreme Valkyrie hypercar also inform Valhalla’s cockpit, with clean, reductive design creating an environment to immerse both driver and passenger in an intense and unforgettable supercar experience. Foremost amongst them are raised footwells for a low hip-to-heel seating position and lightweight, one-piece carbon fibre seats for maximum support. The seating position amplifies the driver’s sense of connection without compromising comfort. The steering wheel shape has too been inspired by F1 and features a one-piece carbon fibre armature.
The Amphitheatre line is a key feature of Aston Martin’s new interior design language, wrapping around the cabin, cosseting the driver and passenger with a cockpit feel. A carbon brace runs the width of the cabin, on top of which floats the Instrument Panel. Each component is designed to enhance the driving experience of Valhalla, while maintaining the high levels of craftsmanship and excellence that customers are familiar with from Aston Martin’s core GT products.
The innovative Aston Martin HMI system provides an ultra-clear, column mounted driver centric display of information essential to road and track use. Features include a Race mode layout with a large linear tachometer and shift lights informed by Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team drivers at their Silverstone Headquarters. During road driving the display also features an expanded view function, such as full-screen navigation map, for added ease of use.
The HMI system also features a central touchscreen incorporating the introduction of new EV features, including a uniquely designed drivetrain visualiser illustrating the PHEV Powerflow in realtime. This Powerflow graphic has been purposely designed for Valhalla with inputs showing when Valhalla is regenerating energy under braking, performing load shift to charge the battery and when it is deploying energy to enhance performance and dynamics. Being the first Aston Martin with a dedicated EV range, the EV drive mode presents a clear graphic on to the driver display showing Valhalla’s energy deployment, electric power, and subsequent energy regeneration. Reflecting its position as the ultimate driver’s supercar, Valhalla also introduces selectable ADAS modes to configure the preferred level of intervention quickly and easily for different driving scenarios.
Driven by performance and inspired by the car’s impressive credentials, an emphasis on and extensive use of composite materials has been integral to the development of this race inspired, ultra-luxury interior. Recycled, forged carbon fibre for example provides a distinct, unique visual character. Supported by high-performance coatings on the exterior, also derived from motorsport, enable Valhalla to push beyond limits.
Like all Aston Martin models, Valhalla customers can explore endless bespoke and customisation possibilities via the luxury brands personalization service, Q by Aston Martin. Enlisting the skills of Q’s designers and crafts people, customers can embark on an unforgettable design journey that can encompass everything from a single small distinguishing detail to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components to create a true one-off.
With the credentials and exclusivity of Valhalla, Aston Martin anticipate a huge number of orders going via Q by Aston Martin to make each car truly bespoke for their discerning customers.
