Aston Martin Makes Le Mans Return with Valkyrie Hypercar

Aston Martin has finally unveiled the final version of its new Le Mans hypercar, the Aston Martin Valkyrie LMH.

Following the initial announcement almost two years ago, Aston Martin has finally shown us the final, race-ready version of its new Le Mans hypercar, the Aston Martin Valkyrie LMH. Based on the already manic Valkyrie roadcar, this LMH prototype will be AM’s bid to clinch its first overall victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in more than six decades.

Just like its road-legal twin, the Valkyrie LMH also uses a V12 hybrid powertrain setup featuring Cosworth’s 6.5-litre nat-asp V12. Due to the LMH regulations, however, the fire-breathing capabilities of this V12 hybrid power plant have been limited to only 680 HP instead of the original output of 1,140 HP.

AM engineers did explain that the V12 engine has been redeveloped to better suit endurance racing by altering the torque curve and rev limiter, while the air-fuel ratio has been made leaner for better efficiency.

Being a proper Le Mans Hypercar prototype, the Valkyrie LMH gets a very aggressive design featuring tons of active aero parts. Included are the LMH-style front and rear body panels that can be removed and swapped easily during races, a pneumatic jack system for easier pit stops, as well as the distinctive rear spoiler with a prominent rear fin for maximum downforce.

Aston Martin will field two units of the Valkyrie LMH for this year’s FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), with the flagship car—numbered 007—being piloted by the Brit duo of Harry Tincknell and Tom Gamble. Meanwhile, the second entry—numbered 009—will be piloted by Danish racer Marco Sorensen and Spaniard Alex Riberas.

Besides WEC and Le Mans, the Valkyrie LMH will also partake in the IMSA SportsCar Championship, where the sole entrant will sport a THOR blue livery instead of AM’s famous green hue for its racing debut in the upcoming 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race.