The Gentleman Magazine | August 21 | Page 32

In terms of its structure , Valhalla is built around a new a carbon fibre tub for maximum stiffness with minimum weight penalty . Featuring Formula One ® style push rod front suspension complete with inboard mounted springs and dampers reducing unsprung mass and provides a brilliant packaging solution . Together with the rear-end ’ s multilink design , Valhalla uses Multimatic Variable Spring rate and Adaptive Spool Valve ( ASV ) Damper units providing adjustable ride frequency for exceptional performance on road and track . In addition to stiffer suspension , Track mode sees ride height dramatically reduced in order to maximise downforce . At the other end of the speed scale , a front axle lift system raises the nose for improved approach angle on awkward inclines .
The carbon tub ’ s inherent rigidity means suspension loadings can be controlled with absolute precision and every minute input to the electric power-assisted steering faithfully translated into an immediate and intuitive direction change . High performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes ( complete with brake-by-wire technology ) guarantee exceptional stopping power , and bespoke Michelin tyres ( 20in front , 21in rear ) developed specifically for Valhalla provide a final and all-important layer of excellence . This intimate , uncorrupted connection between driver and car sits at the core of the Valhalla experience , with advanced materials and electronics serving only to enhance the driver ’ s enjoyment , confidence and sense of complete control .
With a target dry weight of less than 1550kg Valhalla will have an unrivalled power-to-weight ratio compared to its class rivals . Weight of a different kind - that generated by aerodynamic downforce - also plays its part in Valhalla ’ s unmatched dynamic capabilities . Benefitting from a flowdown of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar ’ s Formula One ® inspired aerodynamic philosophy , Valhalla employs a combination of active aerodynamic surfaces - specifically the front surfaces and rear wing - and masterful management of underbody airflow through dramatic venturi tunnels . At 150mph Valhalla ’ s meticulously sculpted aerodynamic surfaces generate an impressive 600kg of downforce , enough for mighty high-speed cornering ability and unshakable stability .
The pursuit of downforce demands uncompromising functionality , but expertly working the airflow beneath the car has left Aston Martin ’ s design team with a clean upper body surface with which they have created a memorable midengined shape that is original yet unmistakably Aston Martin . Uncorrupted by the need for aggressive wings that jut into the airstream , Valhalla ’ s predominantly carbon fibre body blends function and beauty in a manner that befits a new generation of mid-engined supercar . Spectacular forward-hinged dihedral doors bring drama to the beginning and end of every journey , while cut-outs in the roof ease ingress and egress . A distinctive roof scoop feeds air directly into the V8 engine ’ s intakes , with additional side and rear intakes and vents integrated smoothly into the overall body design .
Valhalla , the luxury brands first series production midengined supercar will be available in both left-hand and right-hand drive , expanding its appeal across international markets . Cockpit room has been increased compared to the Aston Martin Valkyrie , though many Formula One ® inspired hallmarks remain , such as a pared back cockpit design with clear , simple ergonomics unashamedly focussed around the driver . An innovative new Aston Martin HMI system features a central touchscreen display and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto . Adjustable pedals and steering column enable the seat bases to be fixed to the chassis structure . The footwells are also raised for a low hip-to-heel seating position redolent of a Formula One ® car .
For Aston Martin ’ s Chief Creative Officer , Marek Reichman , Valhalla is an opportunity for the Aston Martin design team to express extreme performance with fresh form and proportion , and to capture the brand ’ s bold future-forward approach : “ 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 . Though the legacy of Valkyrie is clear , Valhalla is now a more mature , fully resolved piece of design . One which combines the pure aerodynamic function you would expect from a marque competing in Formula One ® together with the beautiful form , striking proportions and exemplary detailing for which Aston Martin is renowned .”
Full LED Matrix headlights with adaptive functionality and high-beam assist deliver excellent forward vision in the dark , and Dual Zone Air Conditioning provides high level of occupant comfort . In order to comply with the latest regulatory requirements , Valhalla also incorporates the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems . These include Auto Emergency Braking , Forward Collision Warning , Active Cruise Control , Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear View Parking Camera ( with Surround View option ).
Dynamic development of the Valhalla will be the task of Aston Martin ’ s award-winning dynamics team and complemented with an enviable pool of talent which also includes Aston Martin Cognizant Formula OneTM Team drivers Sebastian Vettel , Lance Stroll and Nico Hulkenburg . They will give their invaluable perspective to the project and bring added authenticity to a car which boasts such a clear connection to Aston Martin ’ s Grand Prix machines .
Valhalla is a new generation Aston Martin , it defines a new driver and driving experience – ‘ the Mastery of Driving ’, a true ultra-luxury , exclusive , British supercar .
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