Recall the AM-RB 003? This concept was unveiled in March 2019 at the Geneva Motor Show, offering a glimpse into Aston Martin's future mid-engined supercar. Initially, the British brand promised the production model would arrive before the end of 2021. Yet, here we are in the second half of 2024, and the final product is still absent. Meanwhile, a prototype has been spotted at the Nürburgring. Despite no customer cars being seen yet, this test vehicle is instantly recognizable with its large rear wing, which appears more polished than the original concept. The aerodynamic package is capable of generating over 1,322 pounds of downforce at 149 mph. The camouflage suggests Aston Martin is still withholding the final design. The lightweight side windows indicate this could be a hardcore AMR version, as opposed to the regular Valhalla shown in 2021 press shots with standard glass.
The somewhat subdued engine note is not from an Aston Martin engine. Originally, the supercar was to feature a twin-turbo, 3.0-liter V-6, but this was replaced with a larger AMG-sourced V-8, also twin-turbocharged. This 4.0-liter flat-plane crank engine revs up to 7,200 rpm and powers the rear wheels. It's hoped the production model will be louder, unless this prototype is intended for the European market with stricter noise regulations. The combustion engine alone delivers a robust 800 horsepower to the rear wheels. However, the Valhalla will not be solely a gasoline vehicle; it will incorporate a hybrid system with three electric motors, totaling 998 hp and providing all-wheel drive without a conventional reverse gear. The front-mounted motors handle the reverse function, allowing for weight reduction. The third electric motor is integrated into the transmission, powering the rear axle and serving as both starter and generator for the combustion engine.
If the performance figures remain unchanged from Aston Martin's last update, the Valhalla will accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 217 mph. In electric mode, it will not exceed 80 mph or travel more than nine miles. The target weight is an impressively low 3,417 pounds before adding fluids. Aston Martin plans to begin production this year, with 999 units to be produced. The Valhalla will compete against the successor to the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, the McLaren Artura, and the recently revealed Lamborghini Temerario. Although the price is undisclosed, it's expected to be significantly lower than the flagship Valkyrie. A third mid-engined supercar, inspired by the 2019 Vanquish Vision concept, was planned but canceled last year. However, a new front-engined Vanquish is on the horizon, equipped with a powerful twin-turbo V-12 engine delivering 824 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque.
