Aston Martin has unveiled the Valen, an exclusive new V12 supercar that pushes the British manufacturer’s traditional front-engine formula to an extreme new level. Limited to just 150 examples worldwide, the Valen combines enormous power, lightweight construction and advanced chassis technology in what Aston Martin describes as its most powerful front-engine production car in its 113-year history.
At the heart of the Valen is a heavily upgraded version of Aston Martin’s familiar 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12. In this application, the engine produces an impressive 850 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque, with maximum torque available from just 2,500 rpm.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. The result is supercar-level performance, with the Valen capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.0 seconds. Its electronically limited top speed reaches 214 mph, or around 344 km/h.
A More Powerful Interpretation of the V12 Formula
The Valen is not simply a more powerful version of an existing Aston Martin. The company has made extensive changes to the car in an effort to improve both performance and handling.
Weight reduction is one of the most important aspects of the project. Aston Martin has used carbon fibre, aluminium, magnesium and titanium throughout the car, allowing the Valen to shed up to 110 kilograms compared with the conventional V12 platform.
The lightweight philosophy extends to the wheels, with magnesium wheels helping to reduce unsprung mass. The suspension has also been extensively revised, featuring specially tuned components and Bilstein DTX semi-active dampers designed to provide a greater range of performance.
The braking system has been upgraded as well, while the steering and electronic control systems have received specific calibrations for the Valen. Drivers can choose between Sport, Sport+ and Track modes, each designed to alter the car’s responses and make better use of its performance depending on the driving conditions.
Carbon Fibre Bodywork and Aggressive Aerodynamics
Visually, the Valen retains Aston Martin’s characteristic long-bonnet, front-engine proportions, but the design has been made considerably more aggressive.
The bodywork is constructed entirely from carbon fibre, helping reduce weight while giving the car a distinctive appearance. The front features deeply recessed headlights and a reshaped grille, while large openings and vents help manage airflow around the body.
The side sections incorporate prominent aerodynamic elements, while the rear has been carefully shaped to generate additional downforce without relying on an oversized conventional rear wing.
This approach allows Aston Martin to maintain the elegant proportions traditionally associated with its grand touring cars while giving the Valen a much more focused performance character.
A Titanium Exhaust for the V12 Soundtrack
Aston Martin has also paid considerable attention to the sound of the Valen’s V12 engine.
The car receives a new titanium exhaust system featuring four outlets. Some of its components are produced using 3D-printing technology, allowing the engineers to achieve a distinctive design while controlling weight.
The exhaust has been specifically tuned to emphasise the character of the twelve-cylinder engine as the revs rise. For enthusiasts, this is an important part of the Valen’s appeal, particularly at a time when increasingly strict emissions regulations are making large-displacement combustion engines rarer.
A Driver-Focused Interior
Inside, the Valen combines luxury with a more performance-oriented cabin. Aston Martin has developed