ROAD REBEL
By Gary Wollenhaupt
SHAKEN + STIRRED
VALHALLA
I If your only exposure to Aston Martin is the silver birch DB5 that Bond, James Bond, drove in Goldfinger , it’s time to get up to speed. The new Aston Martin Valhalla is a halo car for the brand, offering an alternative to Ferrari and Lamborghini supercars. While the traditionalist English automaker stays close to its roots, the company has fully embraced the hypercar ethos, blending Aston’s bespoke sensibilities with performance-driven methodologies.
Twin electric motors on the front axle facilitate torque vectoring for unheard-of steering control. Reversing will be handled by the electric motors. The electric motors and gas engine combine for all-wheel drive performance through the all-new 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). The active aerodynamics maintain over 1,300 lbs. of downforce at high speeds and feature DRS and air brake functions straight from the F1 series. Active aerodynamics reduce the angle of attack gradually on the front and rear wings to bleed excess downforce as speed increases, ensuring consistent aerodynamic balance for maximum driver confidence. At startup, Valhalla selects Sport mode as the default, with the driver able to manually choose EV Pure, Sport+, and Race as alternative drive modes. Each drive mode is carefully calibrated to provide the driver with a distinct and differentiated experience. The driving experience will likely start and end with the vehicle in silent EV mode, with about 9 miles of fully electric range. As the battery depletes its charge, Valhalla automatically switches from EV to Sport mode. The Sport mode engages the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine transforming the Valhalla into hybrid supercar, combining the instantaneous torque of the electric-motor equipped front axle with the exhilarating power of the V8.
Carbon ceramic brakes deliver the necessary stopping power, along with driver aids like anti-lock brakes, dynamic stability control, and hydraulic brake assist. For a thrilling ride on the open road, turn the dial to Sport +. For exhilarating thrills on the track, switch to Race mode for ultimate performance, engaging active aerodynamics that include the rear T-wing. Under braking, the rear wing will deploy as an air brake to ensure optimal stability. The interior cossets two individuals in carbon racing seats, with contrasting stitching and the logo embroidered on the headrest. While more luxurious than any racing car, it’s still a space that’s all business. While the Valhalla’s design is markedly different from that of classic Aston Martins, its DNA is unmistakable. Flawless, uncorrupted lines, combined with innovative high-downforce active aerodynamics, deliver a car that shines on the road and thrives on the track.
For Aston, the Valhalla represents a series of milestones. It’s the company’s first series- production mid-engined supercar and first production plug-in hybrid with dedicated electric vehicle (EV) range capability. If you want one, get in line, as production is limited to 999 units, with vehicles scheduled to roll off the assembly line in fall 2025. Final prices haven’t been announced, but expect a window sticker north of $1 million. You won’t find an ejection seat or oil-spraying gadgets like James Bond had at his fingertips. Instead, you’ll find Formula 1 influences under every panel and active aerodynamics that tame the wind at the car’s electronically limited top speed of 217 mph. It’s literally a racecar for the road. The Mercedes AMG-sourced twin-turbo 4.0L V8 and three electric motors drive the two-seater from zero to 100 kph (62 mph) in only 2.5 seconds.
ASTON MARTIN BILLS THE VALHALLA AS THE ULTIMATE DRIVER’S SUPERCAR, AND THEY’RE NOT WRONG.
102 | B ACHENDORF’ S
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