When it comes to naming their supercars, Aston Martin seems to have a penchant for 'V' names, and the latest addition, the Valen, is no exception. Derived from the Latin word 'valens,' meaning 'strong,' the Valen certainly lives up to its name, boasting an impressive 850hp and claiming the title of the world's most powerful front-engined production car.
In a market where bragging rights are a defining factor, Aston Martin has pulled out all the stops. The Valen's reveal at Pebble Beach, after a sneak peek for European journalists, showcases its importance to the brand's bottom line. The creation of a new department, Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), further emphasizes this, with Q by Aston Martin now focusing on personalization, leaving SVO to build on the legacy of the Valour and Valiant.
The Evolution of Aston Martin's Supercars
The Valen continues the hard-charging, muscle-bound theme set by its predecessors, the Victor and the Vanquish. However, it distinguishes itself with a unique look, addressing criticisms of carryover designs. The deeply recessed headlights and saw-tooth vortex generators on the sills give the Valen a 'provocative' appearance, as Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichmann puts it.
Performance and Engineering
Under the hood, the Valen's 5.2-liter V12 engine, with minimal hardware changes, delivers an impressive 738lb-ft of torque. The focus on weight reduction, with carbon fiber bodywork and increased use of lightweight materials, has resulted in a significant 110kg saving compared to the Vanquish. This weight loss, combined with a solid rear subframe and model-specific suspension, contributes to the Valen's targeted 3.0-second 0-60mph time.
The exhaust system, with its four tailpipes and 'micro mufflers,' is a key feature, designed to deliver an 'ultimate emotive soundtrack.' The layout of the exhaust pipes, with adjustable valves based on drive mode, adds to the Valen's performance and noise credentials.
Handling and Dynamics
Aston Martin has paid close attention to the Valen's handling and dynamics, aiming for an increased thrill factor and a heightened connection with the road. The rear subframe is solid-mounted, and the car features model-specific suspension and Bilstein DTX semi-active dampers. The introduction of bespoke Pirelli P Zero R tires further enhances the Valen's handling capabilities.
The manufacturer reports a 'unique dynamic signature' resulting from these enhancements, claiming to have maintained the compliance expected from an Aston Martin. Adjustments to the steering calibration, brake booster, and ESP and traction control systems contribute to the Valen's dramatic performance, as described by Aston boss Adrian Hallmark.
Interior and Customization
The Valen's interior is a departure from the Vanquish, with 3D-printed components and exposed carbon fiber adding to its unique character. The rear seats are gone, replaced by newly developed Sports Plus seats in the front. A slimmed-down center console, inspired by the Valhalla, gives the cabin a modern and uncluttered look.
Aston Martin offers a bewildering range of customization options, and while we won't delve into them here, it's worth noting that every example of the 150-car run is already spoken for. The Valen's price tag is not disclosed, but its predecessor, the Valour, was reportedly a million pounds, and the Valen's additional features and performance justify a premium.
Conclusion
The Valen is a testament to Aston Martin's commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and design. With its powerful engine, lightweight construction, and unique dynamic signature, it represents a new school of supercars. Despite the absence of a manual gearbox, the Valen's fans have embraced its modern interpretation of the Aston Martin supercar, and its success is a testament to the brand's ability to evolve while staying true to its heritage.
