Aston Martin Valkyrie Spider

Aston Martin is currently working flat out on the development of the first mid-engine supercar in the brand’s history. The Valkyrie, which was developed in collaboration with Red Bull Advanced Technologies, should actually have been available to waiting customers a year and a half ago. However, difficulties in the approval process and the Corona pandemic significantly delayed the market launch. In addition to Red Bull, Rimac, Multimatic, Bosch, Michelin, Ricardo and Cosworth are also on board as partners. The latter company produces the 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine with 746 kW/1,014 hp. Rimac supplies hybrid components to boost the system output to 850 kW/1,155 hp. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a seven-speed sequential transmission. Originally, Aston Martin announced 150 road versions and 25 trackday variants called AMR Pro with slick tires. Surprisingly, however, they are now deviating from the plan and adding 85 Valkyrie Spiders to the lineup.

This new body shape contradicts the original thoughts of Formula 1 star designer Adrian Newey. He wanted to develop a supercar with the best possible aerodynamics and the highest possible downforce. In the coupé, over 1.8 tons of downforce are available at high speeds. The Spider without a soft top comes in at 1.4 tons. However, Aston Martin offers the car with a three-piece hardtop as standard, which provides small gullwing doors above the seats to facilitate entry and exit. The carbon monocoque, the active aerodynamic parts and the active suspension received modifications. Without the roof, the topspeed is just over 205 mph; with the roof, it’s over 217 mph. Like the coupé, the Spider is available with both left- and right-hand drive. The first vehicles will be built from the second half of 2022.

Images: Aston Martin