Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH: The Hypercar to race in WEC and IMSA

Aston Martin confirms its return to the top category of endurance racing with the Valkyrie AMR-LMH, a Hypercar based on its production model that will compete in the WEC and IMSA starting in 2025. The British brand aims for its first overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans since 1959 with this vehicle, featuring a naturally aspirated V12 engine, aerodynamics influenced by Adrian Newey, and the absence of a hybrid system.

A Road-Going Hypercar Adapted for the Track

Unlike other cars in the Hypercar (LMH) category, the Valkyrie AMR-LMH is built on a chassis derived from its production model rather than a prototype designed from scratch. This makes it a unique case in the championship, as it retains key elements of the original Valkyrie, including its 6.5-liter V12 engine developed by Cosworth. With over 15,000 km of testing, Aston Martin and the The Heart of Racing (THOR) team have worked on its development to meet the demands of WEC and IMSA.

The Valkyrie's aerodynamics were originally conceived by Adrian Newey, following extreme ground effect principles. This design approach sets it apart from other LMH and LMDh cars, which have been developed under more conventional parameters. Mechanically, unlike Toyota, Ferrari, or Peugeot, the Valkyrie does not use a hybrid system, reducing weight and complexity but lacking the all-wheel-drive advantage of its hybrid competitors.

Dual Program in WEC and IMSA

The Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH will be the only Hypercar competing simultaneously in both WEC and IMSA. Two units will race in WEC with a driver lineup including Harry Tincknell, Tom Gamble, Marco Sørensen, and Alex Riberas. In IMSA, the team will enter a single car with Ross Gunn and Roman de Angelis, who will also strengthen the Le Mans lineup.

The Valkyrie will make its racing debut on February 28, 2025, in Qatar, as the WEC season begins. Its IMSA campaign will kick off at the 12 Hours of Sebring on March 15.

Technical Development

Adapting the Valkyrie for the track has required modifications to its chassis and the configuration of its V12 engine, adjusted to the Balance of Performance (BoP) regulations, with a power limit of 500 kW (680 hp). Additionally, Aston Martin has optimized the engine’s efficiency to maximize performance in endurance racing.

Another key aspect has been the redesign of components for durability, such as the quick-change bodywork, fast refueling system, an optimized cockpit for accessibility and safety, and the integration of an adjustable double-wishbone suspension. As required by regulations, it will use 18-inch Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

Aston Martin has carried out a testing program at circuits such as Donington, Silverstone, Vallelunga, Jerez, Bahrain, Qatar, Road Atlanta, Sebring, and Daytona, ensuring that the Valkyrie is prepared for the challenges of both championships.

A Challenge for Aston Martin

The The Heart of Racing team is leading this new chapter in Aston Martin's history in endurance racing, aiming to compete at the highest level against manufacturers that have already established their WEC and IMSA programs. The 2025 season will mark the beginning of a new challenge for the British brand, with the goal of achieving victories at Le Mans and other key races on the calendar.