The wait is over. After years of anticipation, Aston Martin’s Valhalla hypercar is finally here. First teased at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, this groundbreaking vehicle is set to redefine the boundaries of performance and luxury. Initially known as the Aston Martin AM-RB 003, it was part of an ambitious lineup of mid-engined supercars that were set to follow the flagship Valkyrie, originally designated as the AM-RB 001. Alongside the 003, the V6-powered Vanquish Vision Concept was introduced, envisioned as the entry-level supercar derived from the high-priced Valhalla’s lineage. However, the Vanquish concept never materialized, and the nameplate returned to its roots, giving rise to a new front-engine, powerful ICE variant, the Mk3 Vanquish, which debuted this year.
All focus shifted to delivering the intricately designed Valkyrie and its variants to a discerning and patient clientele, causing the 003 to slip into a state of dormancy. It made a brief appearance as a background feature in Daniel Craig’s final Bond film, No Time To Die. Fast forward through a pandemic, and the Valhalla has been reimagined and revitalized, making its media debut at Silverstone in 2021. Now, the moment of delivery is on the horizon, with the complete car and its interior set to be unveiled in the second quarter of 2025.
In the meantime, Aston Martin has seen a revolving door of three CEOs and has had to push its electric vehicle aspirations further down the timeline. Under the guidance of Adrian Hallmark, the former CEO of Bentley, the Valhalla’s launch signifies a new chapter for his eagerly awaited leadership. This vehicle carries significant expectations and has much to demonstrate.
It aims to impress with an innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining Aston’s new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 828PS, with three electric motors for a staggering total output of 1,079PS. Many of the 999 prospective buyers will likely be thrilled by the impressive specifications, including an electronically capped top speed of 350km/h (217mph) and a blistering 0-100km/h (62mph) time of just 2.5 seconds. However, Aston Martin hopes that the true allure for buyers will lie in the car’s driver-centric dynamic systems, branding it as the ‘ultimate driver’s supercar.’
The Valhalla showcases Aston Martin’s deep-rooted expertise in aerodynamics, honed through years in Formula 1. It features an impressive active system, highlighted by a substantial pop-up rear spoiler that can elevate up to 255mm, generating extra downforce while also functioning as an air brake. This hybrid marvel not only injects exhilarating power for acceleration but also enhances cornering through its advanced torque vectoring system. Additionally, it offers a pure electric mode, albeit with a modest range of 14km, and an all-electric reverse gear.
Beneath its sleek carbon fibre exterior lies a treasure trove of cutting-edge technology, meticulously integrated into a custom carbon fibre tub crafted by Aston Martin Performance Technologies, the consulting branch of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team. Weighing in at 1655kg, the Valhalla benefits from the extensive use of lightweight materials and F1-inspired moulding techniques, ensuring both performance and efficiency.
In contrast to the Valkyrie and its variants, which prioritized performance over comfort, the Valhalla is engineered for everyday usability. It strikes a balance between exhilarating track capabilities and a more refined driving experience. The car offers a spacious and comfortable interior, making it a more practical choice for those who seek both thrill and comfort in their driving adventures.
Accessing the interior is made easier with dihedral doors, leading to a cabin that, while influenced by racing design, is adorned with the exquisite craftsmanship and premium materials synonymous with the Aston Martin brand. The human-machine interface features an information panel positioned behind the race-inspired steering wheel, complemented by a central touchscreen. Both displays can be customized to provide insights into the car’s various systems, allowing drivers to toggle between a dedicated race mode and a more road-oriented setup. With exposed structural carbon fibre throughout, the interior reflects the brand’s commitment to personalization, ensuring that no two Valhallas are ever the same, thanks to the Q by Aston Martin customization service.
Adrian Hallmark, the CEO, describes the Valhalla as the groundbreaking mid-engine series production Aston Martin, heralding it as the pinnacle of supercars for enthusiasts. Both in theory and on the racetrack, the Valhalla stands out as the most driver-centric and technologically sophisticated supercar, boasting genuine hypercar capabilities. Remarkably, it also offers the same level of usability and pleasure on the road as any Aston Martin.