Aston Martin recently began testing the Valkyrie AMR-LMH, a high-performance endurance racing car that will compete in the top categories of endurance racing starting in 2025. Partnering with the American team The Heart of Racing, Aston Martin is fine-tuning the model to ensure it meets the necessary specifications for competition. The Valkyrie AMR-LMH is based on the limited-edition, V12-powered production car, with enhancements to enhance its speed and performance on the track.
### Design and Features
The Valkyrie AMR-LMH retains the sleek and aerodynamic design of the street-legal model it is based on, but it incorporates several features specifically designed to enhance performance on the track. These include a new body kit with a fin and a rear wing to improve aerodynamics and optimize downforce. Additionally, changes were made to the carbon fiber chassis, although specific details have not been disclosed by the company yet.
### Engine and Performance
The powertrain of the Valkyrie AMR-LMH consists of a racing-specific, lean-burning version of the Cosworth-built 6.5-liter V12 engine that powers the regular Valkyrie model. This engine is capable of producing over 1,000 horsepower and revs to more than 11,000 rpm in its standard state of tune. However, modifications were made to the engine for homologation purposes, making it suitable for endurance racing competition.
### Testing and Development
The testing phase of the Valkyrie AMR-LMH began at the Silverstone track in England, where professional race car drivers Darren Turner, Mario Farnbacher, and Harry Tincknell are putting the vehicle through its paces. The testing will continue at various circuits in the following months as Aston Martin and The Heart of Racing aim to complete homologation by fall. The first official race for the Valkyrie AMR-LMH is scheduled for early 2025.
### Racing Series Participation
Aston Martin and The Heart of Racing have announced their plans to enter the Valkyrie AMR-LMH in two prestigious racing series: the FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. This will enable the model to compete in prominent races such as the Rolex 24, the 12 Hours of Sebring, the 6 Hours of Fuji, and the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. Aston Martin is hopeful of securing its first overall victory at Le Mans since 1959 with the Valkyrie AMR-LMH.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Aston Martin and The Heart of Racing on the Valkyrie AMR-LMH represents a significant step forward in the world of endurance racing. With its cutting-edge design, powerful engine, and participation in top racing series, the Valkyrie AMR-LMH is poised to make a mark on the competitive racing scene in 2025 and beyond.