Aston Martin’s Valhalla concept car has returned to Australia, showcasing a driver-focused interior, technical updates and the highly anticipated production reality of the hybrid supercar. With stops in Sydney, Gold Coast, Melbourne and Adelaide, Valhalla is set to redefine the supercar sector, providing a driver-focused experience with an unprecedented level of performance and dynamics.
Valhalla’s hybrid efficiency reflects a new era, one defined by a shift in attitudes and expectations that demands contemporary supercars not just be great to look at and thrilling to drive, but also reflect the technology employed in the highest level of motorsport. At the heart of Valhalla is its all-new PHEV powertrain, which features four motors; foremost of these is a rear-mid-mounted 4.0 litre twin-turbo bespoke V8 engine. Revving to 7200rpm and developing over 800PS, it sends drive exclusively to the rear axle.
“Valhalla is a truly transformational moment for this ultra-luxury brand,” said Aston Martin’s Executive Chairman, Lawrence Stroll. “Valhalla demonstrates Aston Martin’s commitment to building a range of exceptional mid-engined driver focused cars, a crucial next stage in the expansion of our product line-up.”
Supplementing this new V8 engine is a 150kW/400V battery hybrid system utilising three E-Motors; two mounted on the front axle and the other on the rear axle. The electric system contributes a further 204PS for a headline combined power output of 1012PS. When driven in EV mode battery power is directed exclusively to the front axle. In other driving modes battery power is split between front and rear axles, the percentage sent to each axle constantly varying according to driving demands.
Valhalla’s powertrain is complemented by an all-new 8-speed DCT transmission, bespoke Michelin tyres, high performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes (complete with brake-by-wire technology) and a carbon fibre tub for maximum stiffness with minimum weight penalty. Benefitting from a flow-down of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar’s Formula One® inspired aerodynamic philosophy, Valhalla employs a combination of active aerodynamic surfaces and masterful management of underbody airflow.
In terms of its structure, Valhalla’s cockpit room has been increased compared to the Aston Martin Valkyrie and features an innovative new Aston Martin HMI system with a central touchscreen display and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The production model will have a fixed pedal box and moveable seat, with footwells raised for a low hip-to-heel seating position redolent of a Formula One® car. Forward-hinged dihedral doors bring drama to the beginning and end of every journey, while cut-outs in the roof ease ingress and egress.
“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,” said Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman.
Full LED Matrix headlights with adaptive functionality and high-beam assist deliver excellent forward vision in the dark, and Dual Zone Air Conditioning provides a high level of occupant comfort. With a target dry weight of less than 1550kg, Valhalla will have a competitive power-to-weight ratio compared to its class rivals. It will be available in both left-hand and right-hand drive, expanding its appeal across international markets.
Valhalla offers a maximum speed of 130km/h, a zero-emission range of 15km, and a predicted CO2 (WLTP) count of less than 200g/km. But when put to the test, its 1012PS will propel it to a top speed of 350km/h and let it complete the 0-100km/h sprint in just 2.5 seconds. Track enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that a 6:30 lap time on the Nürburgring Nordschleife is being targeted.
Dynamic development of the Valhalla is the task of Aston Martin’s award-winning dynamics team, and complemented with an enviable pool of talent including the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula OneTM Team drivers who will give their invaluable perspective to the project. Valhalla is a new generation Aston Martin, it defines a new driver and driving experience.
