SimplyAbuDhabi XLIV

The most influential change in the character of Valiant comes from the fitment of Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, capable of simultaneously adjusting each damper to one of thirty-two discreet damper curves in less than six milliseconds, the ASV system is truly state-of-the-art suspension technology that provides Aston Martin’s engineers with almost limitless scope for tuning ride and handling characteristics. The dampers offer motorsport-level damping control and an operating control bandwidth previously exclusive to the highest echelons of motorsport. The Multimatic ASV dampers are only found fitted to the most dynamic, most exclusive vehicles available and are not available in the aftermarket. To exploit the increased limits of the new suspension set-up and greater aerodynamic downforce, each of Valiant’s pre-set Driving Modes – Sport, Sport+ and Track – have been recalibrated to aid the driver in progressively exploring the car’s full performance. Connection, consistency, and confidence are key attributes, the driver developing an intimate bond with the machine which allows them to take control of Valiant’s abundant performance and enjoy exploring its elevated capabilities to the full. Valiant’s dramatic bodywork makes an explicit statement of intent. Through use of extensive lightweight carbon fibre, the evocative profile speaks of a truly heavyweight punch. Broad and muscular with sharply chiselled features shaped to generate stability enhancing downforce and minimize speed-sapping drag. Every inch of the Valiant’s immaculately sculpted form serves an aesthetic and aerodynamic function. Slicing through the air with maximum effectiveness, Valiant’s deep front splitter helps pin the nose to the tarmac, while distinctive multi-layer end planes guide and smooth airflow around the front wheels. Directly above the splitter a new full-width carbon fibre grille increases the flow of cooling air to the engine and reduces mass ahead of the front axle to help centralise weight distribution and improve handling. Amongst Valiant’s most distinctive functional features are its heavily scalloped side fenders and carbon fibre aero discs fitted to the 21” Mag- nesium wheels. Working in harmony with the front splitter end planes, the broad side sills and upswept vortex generators located ahead of the rear wheels smooth airflow along the flanks, reducing turbulence, drag and lift. Inspired by wheel covers fitted to the legendary 1980 RHAM/1 ‘Muncher’ Le Mans racer and attached directly to the lightweight forged magnesium wheels, the aero discs reduce turbulence and drag created by the rotating wheels. In addition, six strategically placed inlets draw cooling air onto the carbon ceramic brakes to maintain optimum braking performance during track use, with apertures around the circumference of the wheel allowing the extreme heat generated by the carbon ceramic discs to vent. Valiant’s rear-end design is equally effective and dramatic, with the sharp Kamm tail and boldly upswept deck lid topped by a prominent fixed wing. Shaped to balance downforce gains made by the front split- Simply Abu Dhabi | 261