Aston Martin Valhalla Gets A V8 Engine And A Gorgeous Design

The release of Aston Martin Valhalla has been delayed numerous times. As a result of the delays, the automobile that we assumed would be powered by a V6 hybrid engine was rumored to be driven by Mercedes-AMG. Tobias Moers, the CEO of Aston Martin, almost confirmed it in February, but he made it clear that it will still be a hybrid. Thankfully, we don't have to speculate any longer, as Aston Martin released an updated concept today, confirming that the hypercar would be powered by an electrified V8.

According to Moers, the new Valhalla will keep all of its promises: "When it comes to moving a great concept car into production, it's critical to keep its spirit. We not only kept our promise to produce a world-beating supercar with Valhalla, but we also exceeded our original goals. The result is a pure driving machine that is at the bleeding edge of performance and technology while still allowing the driver to experience the feeling and excitement of complete control." 

Aston Martin Valhalla is powered by three engines, the most powerful of which is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 located in the rear mid-section. Although that sounds like Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martin claims that this engine is unique. It's the "most innovative, responsive, and highest performing V8 engine" ever installed to an Aston Martin, with a flat-plane crank. On its own strength, it revs to 7,200 rpm and generates 740 hp, all of which goes to the back axle. The exhaust, which is both lightweight and has active flaps, is finished off with top-exit tailpipes.

A 150-kW battery hybrid system with two electric motors, one for each axle, is included with the V8. This system provides an extra 201 hp, bringing the total to 937. It's well worth getting enthusiastic about.

When the EV mode is on, the front axle receives all of the power, however in other driving modes, the percentage of power given to each axle varies according to the driving needs. For ultimate performance, the Valhalla can direct 100 percent of its battery capacity to the rear axle in specific cases.

An all-new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission developed exclusively for a hybrid powertrain helps manage all of this power. Aston Martin Valhalla has an electronic limited-slip differential for better handling and no reverse gear because the electric motors are capable of doing it. This minimizes weight and maximizes the electric system's potential.

The EV mode is especially notable for its ability to travel at highway speeds, with a top speed of 80 mph achievable, though the maximum range in this mode is only 9 miles. But since this is a sporty automobile, you probably don't care. Rather, you'll be more amazed by the fact that the e-motors operate as torque fillers for the V8, and that they can run in different ratios to the V8 in the DCT system at the same time, enabling a motor speed delivery of 738 lb-ft.

The acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes only 2.5 seconds, and the top speed is 217 mph. Aston Martin also plans to bring the Valhalla to the Nurburgring, where it hopes to set a lap time of 6:30 around the Nordschleife. Other innovations include a reworked carbon-fiber tub for optimum stiffness with minimal weight, Formula One-style pushrod front suspension with inboard mounted springs and dampers, adaptive spool valve dampers, multimatic variable spring rates, and multilink rear suspension, among others. Track mode's ride height will be dramatically decreased, while street driving will feature a nose-lifting technology to cope with troublesome bumps.

Valhalla-specific Michelin tires and carbon-ceramic Matrix brakes are also included (20 inches in front and 21s at the rear). Aston Martin boasts that the hypercar's finely sculpted body can produce an amazing 1,322 lbs of downforce at 150 mph and that the car's weight would be kept below 3,417 lbs. Despite the lack of protruding wings, it still manages to create drama with dihedral doors that have roof cutouts for easier access and exit. The car will be available in both left and right-hand drive and will have more interior space than the Valkyrie, while the F1 influence will remain.

The adjustable pedals and steering column have an F1 feel to them. Although no pictures of the interior have been released, it is expected to have a new AM HMI system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Despite the unique seating posture, there are certain conveniences like dual-zone automatic climate control and full LED Matrix headlights with auto high beams. For an additional fee, you can add a surround-view package. Aston Martin has not specified when the finished product would be available. Sebastian Vettel, Nico Hulkenberg, and Lance Stroll, all Formula One drivers, share their perspectives. The wait for Aston Martin Valhalla will be well worth it.