Aston Martin proudly unveils the Valiant, an ultra-exclusive, road-legal special edition designed for track enthusiasts. Conceived by Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver Fernando Alonso, this remarkable vehicle stands as the latest offering from the elite Q by Aston Martin division, continuing the brand’s legacy of producing highly collectible special editions.
At the heart of the Valiant lies a formidable 745 PS 5.2-litre Twin-Turbo V12 engine, seamlessly paired with a bespoke six-speed manual transmission. This powerhouse is engineered to deliver unparalleled driving purity. Limited to a mere 38 units globally, each car has been allocated, underscoring its exclusivity.
Origins and Inspiration
The Valiant emerged from Alonso’s personal vision to create a lightweight, race-inspired evolution of the Aston Martin Valour. Drawing on Alonso’s extensive 23-year Formula 1® career and his passion for high-performance driving, this limited-edition model was meticulously crafted by Q by Aston Martin. This division excels in bespoke personalisation, offering distinctive models like the Valiant and the opportunity for owners to create unique sports cars such as the Victor.
Aston Martin’s legacy of delivering exceptional driving experiences continues with the Valiant, joining the ranks of the hypercar Valkyrie, the dynamic Vantage, its racing counterpart Vantage GT3, and the forthcoming mid-engine supercar, Valhalla. Both Valour and Valiant reflect Aston Martin’s storied heritage, while firmly establishing their place in the brand’s future, offering top-tier power, performance, and cutting-edge technology.
Fernando Alonso’s Perspective
Fernando Alonso, the driving force behind the Valiant, stated, “Valour was a spectacular celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, and inspired me to create a more extreme, race car-inspired version that was track-focused, while also delivering a thrilling drive on-road. Valiant is born from my passion for driving at the limit, and I have enjoyed working closely with the Q by Aston Martin team on both the design and technical specification, and believe we have created a masterpiece.”
Performance and Engineering Excellence
The Valiant fuses iconic V12 performance with contemporary engineering. The all-carbon fibre bodywork not only enhances aerodynamics but also reduces weight. Magnesium, titanium, and advanced 3D printing further contribute to weight savings, making the Valiant a true testament to Aston Martin’s engineering prowess.
The adoption of Multimatic ASV dampers and recalibrated electronics enhances the vehicle’s track capabilities, providing a state-of-the-art suspension system capable of instantaneously adjusting to varying driving conditions. This, coupled with a recalibrated Driving Mode system, ensures that drivers can exploit the Valiant’s full performance potential with confidence and control.
Simon Newton, Director of Vehicle Performance, on the Valiant
Simon Newton, Aston Martin’s Director of Vehicle Performance, remarked, “With Valiant we’ve shifted the emphasis towards much increased track capability while retaining enough usability to remain enjoyable on the road. We’ve moved the dial in every key area to extract greater performance and deliver more excitement; increased power delivery from the V12 to develop 745 PS; perfecting the chassis setup with Multimatic ASV dampers; re-sculpting the body to produce more downforce; and employing lightweight materials and processes to reduce mass. Above all, we have put the driver right at the heart of the action.”
Design and Aerodynamics
Valiant’s aggressive design is both functional and visually compelling. The extensive use of lightweight carbon fibre results in an aerodynamic profile that enhances stability and reduces drag. Features like a deep front splitter, full-width carbon fibre grille, scalloped side fenders, and functional rear diffuser all contribute to the car’s high-performance credentials. Aero discs on the 21” magnesium wheels reduce turbulence, further optimising aerodynamic efficiency.
The Valiant’s interior mirrors its exterior’s focus on performance and luxury. The cockpit, strictly two-seat, features extensive use of exposed satin-finish carbon fibre and lightweight materials. Strategic placement of seat padding and finely tailored upholstery ensures both comfort and functionality. Key components such as a bespoke spherical gear knob and a unique steering wheel enhance the driving experience, reflecting the car’s pure, unadulterated connection between driver and machine.
Marek Reichman’s Design Philosophy
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, said, “Valiant is an extrovert. One look leaves you in no doubt of its intentions. A true thoroughbred aimed at being enjoyed to the full on a racetrack, yet still usable on the road, it takes clear inspiration from motorsport, expressing its character through dramatic, muscular form and a plethora of beautiful, functional details.”
Public Debut and Future Outlook
The Aston Martin Valiant will make its public debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 11-14, with dynamic demonstrations on the famous Hill Climb course, including a showcase run by its first owner, Fernando Alonso. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in Q4 2024, promising an unparalleled driving experience to a select few connoisseurs.