Those attending the British Grand Prix on Saturday got an extra slice of on-track excitement, as the Aston Martin Valkyrie made an appearance.
The 1,160 hp hypercar took to the Silverstone circuit for a special demonstration run, showing off how quick the 6.5-litre Cosworth V12-powered car could potentially be.
With all 150 examples of the Valkyrie already sold, for many this may be the only chance to see one used in anger before they disappear into the hands of eager collectors.
Using the British Grand Prix for the Valkyrie’s debut was no coincidence. Aston Martin has worked extensively with the Red Bull Racing F1 team, using their knowledge and skills to develop it.
Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer, has been instrumental in the design of the Valkyrie. F1-influenced aerodynamics abound throughout, with Newey aiming to endow the Valkyrie with huge amounts of downforce.
On witnessing the debut, Newey commented: “To finally see Aston Martin Valkyrie running five years from when I first sat down and started sketching what this car could look like is quite an emotional day.
“With the change in vision angle as it comes past, and the noise, it is now doing what it is supposed to be doing, which is to move and be dynamic.”
Aston Martin test driver Chris Goodwin was responsible for driving the Valkyrie. Although not running at full speed, the debut was still important for Goodwin, who commented that driving it at Silverstone was “exceptionally special.”
The single lap demonstration has come after months of simulator work and digital modelling. Although the public debut marks a significant milestone, Aston Martin and Red Bull still have plenty of work to do.
Deliveries to customers are due to start in late 2019, giving only limited time to ensure the Valkyrie lives up to the expected price tag of more than £2 million.
Aston Martin has also committed the Valkyrie to competing at Le Mans in 2021, upping the workload even more.
