By DCB Editorial, December 18, 2024
Aston Martin has spent over 100 years building front-engine, rear-wheel-drive supercars. The Aston Martin Valhalla marks a significant departure for the company, as its first mid-engine model, powered by a bespoke V8 engine paired with an in-house-developed dual-clutch gearbox. This series-production car represents a bold step for a brand traditionally rooted in front-engine supercar design. But if the Valhalla embodies a direct transfer of technology from the racetrack to the road, why did Aston Martin opt for a plug-in hybrid supercar?
Why not choose a simpler, more straightforward hybrid system? It would mean less EV-related weight, enhanced supercar performance, and the understanding that hybrids are often more efficient than plug-in hybrids. While the Valhalla is a groundbreaking first for Aston Martin, the decision-making behind it reflects an old-school approach to innovation.
Anyway, the Valhalla is intriguing from a technical perspective. It features an all-new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that integrates an e-motor and an electronic rear differential (E-diff).
Central to this is Valhalla’s1079PS 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 derived from the 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.
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.
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. 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).
The Aston Martin Valhalla is limited to just 999 units and has a starting price of approximately £900,000 GBP.
