Every day, it seems like a new carmaker announces its plans to convert to a fully electric lineup by the end of the decade. It's Aston Martin's turn today. The company stated it will launch its first electric model by 2025.
The 600-hp Aston Martin Rapide E was supposed to be Aston Martin’s first EV to go into production a few years ago. There was even a prototype. However, then Aston scrapped plans to construct a limited run of 155 cars. They appear to be ready to try again, though. There are little facts about the first Aston EV's body shape for now but there is information on its first Plugin Electric Vehicle.
Overview of the first PEV
The 937-hp Valhalla Aston Martin's first plug-in hybrid will begin sales in 2024, ahead of the British brand's first EV. By the end of the decade, that model will have kicked off the planned shift to an electric lineup.
2024 Aston Martin Valhalla
Starting at an estimated $800,000, the Aston Martin Valhalla will be a mid-engine hypercar with a hybrid drivetrain, similar to the Ferrari SF90, when it debuts in 2024. The Aston has an exaggerated version of the company's grille, as well as slick bodywork and a carbon-fiber engine cover on the outside. The Valhalla's unusual aspect will be further emphasized by its dihedral doors, which are made of carbon fiber. The car is powered by a Mercedes-AMG twin-turbo V-8 engine and a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which together produce 937 horsepower. Aston forecasts a top speed of 217 mph and a zero-to-62-mph time of 2.5 seconds. The 2022 Valhalla will also have an electric mode, albeit it will only have a very small range.
The Valhalla will be very different from the version that was originally teased as the 003 and briefly designated AM-RB 003. This is due to changes within Aston Martin, which include a new CEO in the form of Tobias Moer, who was previously the head of Mercedes-AMG. While there's still a lot to learn, we do know that the final version will have an AMG engine and a six-digit price tag rather than a seven-digit one. It won't be delivered to customers until the second half of 2023, putting it on track to be a 2024 model.
Performance, Engine, and Transmission
The Valhalla will be powered by a powerful plug-in hybrid system. The engine will be a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 from Mercedes-AMG with an unusual flat-plane crank arrangement. An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission will drive the rear wheels. In addition, the front wheels will be powered by an electric motor, and the transmission will be powered by another. The Valhalla is estimated to have a combined output of 937 horsepower. It will have an electric reverse and an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential in its electrically assisted gearbox. The car's construction will be made of carbon fiber to conserve weight.
It'll also have adjustable dampers and two-stage springs with an ultra-low track mode. Carbon-ceramic brakes will also come standard. The Valhalla's eye-catching look will no doubt be matched by incredible handling.
Infotainment and Connectivity
We only know that the Valhalla's infotainment system will support Aston's future user interface, which will be the first to use a touchscreen. Of course, we anticipate it to include features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A robust music system and built-in navigation should also be accessible.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Valhalla will be equipped with a variety of driver aids that are usually found on less extreme vehicles. While traditional side mirrors will be present, they will be complemented by an interior camera-based rearview display. There is more information on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites on the Valhalla's crash-test results.
