The Aston Martin Valiant: Fernando Alonso’s Ultimate Track-Focused Machine from Darren Demers's blog

Aston Martin has unveiled some remarkable bespoke cars in the past, but the new Valiant takes exclusivity and design to the next level. This high-performance machine isn't just about looks; it comes with a manual transmission and a monstrous V12 engine, making it a dream for driving enthusiasts. What sets it apart even further is its special commission by none other than Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team driver, Fernando Alonso. The Valiant is an ultra-exclusive, track-focused, road-legal machine, developed through the bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin. Only 38 units of this extreme car will be made worldwide, with the first deliveries expected in Q4 of 2024. The Valiant is essentially a more aggressive and lightweight version of the Aston Martin Valour, personally crafted by Alonso to embody his passion for racing.

The Vision Behind the Valiant: Fernando Alonso’s Input

Fernando Alonso, an icon in Formula One racing, has always had a close connection to Aston Martin. Commenting on his involvement in the project, Alonso said: "Valour was a spectacular celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, and it 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. I believe we have created a masterpiece."

Alonso’s desire to push the limits of performance is evident in every aspect of the Valiant. This car is designed to be an extreme version of the Valour, offering a race-car-like experience but with the ability to be driven on public roads. It combines the raw thrill of racing with the precision and sophistication that Aston Martin is known for.

Power and Performance: A V12 Beast

At the heart of the Valiant is a twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V12 engine that produces an astonishing 745PS and 753Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, giving drivers full control over the car’s immense power. The Valiant’s performance is further enhanced by Carbon Ceramic brakes, with 410mm x 38mm discs at the front and 360mm x 32mm at the rear, ensuring that the car stops as impressively as it accelerates.

Weight reduction has been a key focus in the Valiant’s design. A 3D-printed rear subframe reduces the car’s weight by 3kg without compromising rigidity. Additionally, a magnesium torque tube saves 8.6kg, while lightweight 21-inch magnesium wheels further reduce weight by 14kg. The Valiant even features a motorsport-spec lithium-ion battery, cutting an additional 11.5kg from the car’s overall mass. All these changes result in a car that not only has extreme power but also the agility and responsiveness of a race car.

Precision Engineering: Advanced Suspension and Driving Modes

To match its high-performance engine, the Valiant is equipped with advanced suspension technology. The car features Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, allowing for greater precision and control in various driving conditions. Three pre-set driving modes – Sport, Sport+, and Track – ensure the car can be finely tuned for different environments, whether it’s on the road or the racetrack.

A Minimalist Interior Built for Performance

The interior of the Valiant is designed with the mindset of a racing driver. It’s stripped back, featuring exposed satin-finish carbon fiber and lightweight upholstery, giving it a no-nonsense, performance-oriented feel. The new steering wheel has a minimalist design, with a slim rim and no distracting switches, allowing the driver to focus entirely on the road or track ahead.

One of the most distinctive features of the Valiant’s interior is the exposed gear linkage in the transmission tunnel, a nod to the car’s analog nature. The interior also includes bespoke Recaro Podium seats and a built-in half-cage, emphasizing the car’s track-ready credentials. Even the door panels are designed for performance, with mesh inserts and lightweight fabric door pulls, all in the name of saving weight.

Exterior Design: A Masterpiece of Aerodynamics

The exterior of the Valiant is as extreme as its performance. Aerodynamics play a significant role in its design, with a distinctive Kamm tail and an upswept deck lid that’s topped by a fixed rear wing. The rear of the car features a one-piece clamshell design, with a hinged rear screen that provides access to a small storage space – perfect for race helmets and other track gear.

Every detail of the Valiant’s exterior has been crafted for both performance and style, making it a true standout in the world of high-performance cars. From the intricate design of the fixed wing to the lightweight materials used throughout, the Valiant is the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design.

Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Bespoke Automotive Design

The Aston Martin Valiant, commissioned by Fernando Alonso, represents the pinnacle of bespoke automotive design. With only 38 units being produced, it’s a rare and highly sought-after machine that combines extreme performance with exquisite craftsmanship. From its powerful V12 engine to its lightweight construction and advanced suspension, the Valiant is a car built for those who demand the very best in both track performance and road-legal driving. For those lucky enough to get their hands on one, the Valiant offers a driving experience unlike any other.

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