Aston Martin and Heart of Racing to debut two Valkyrie AMR-LMH hypercars in the 2025 WEC and Le Mans, marking a major return.
Aston Martin, along with their works team Heart of Racing, will enter the top class of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2025 with two Valkyrie AMR-LMH hypercars. This move marks Aston Martin’s return to the race’s top tier for the first time since their 1959 victory.
Highlights:
- Aston Martin to enter two Valkyrie AMR-LMH hypercars in 2025 WEC and Le Mans.
- Valkyrie AMR-LMH features a 6.5-litre V12 engine and carbon-fiber chassis.
- Heart of Racing establishes UK base for WEC program.
- Aston Martin to compete across all levels of endurance racing and Formula 1.
Commitment to the WEC and Le Mans
Aston Martin and Heart of Racing are enthusiastic supporters of this regulation change, aiming to enhance the competitive environment. Aston Martin Head of Endurance Motorsport, Adam Carter, expressed pride in their long-standing history with Le Mans, stating, “We are committed to WEC’s hypercar concept and bringing our famous Wings back to the very forefront of international sportscar racing.”
Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH: Design and Development
The Valkyrie AMR-LMH is built on a carbon-fiber chassis and will feature a modified version of the Cosworth-built 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine, capable of over 1000bhp. The car will not include the battery-electric hybrid system found in the road version, focusing instead on Balance of Performance requirements for the Hypercar class.
Testing and development of the Valkyrie AMR-LMH are well underway, with recent evaluations conducted at Silverstone and the Portimao circuit in Portugal. The car is set to make its track debut this summer, followed by intensive testing ahead of its planned homologation in the autumn.
Heart of Racing’s UK Headquarters
Heart of Racing has established a UK headquarters near Silverstone, where the Valkyrie AMR-LMH cars are being constructed in collaboration with Aston Martin Performance Technologies. The team also plans to run the Valkyrie AMR-LMH in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s GTP class from their Phoenix HQ in North America.
Heart of Racing Team Principal Ian James highlighted the excitement surrounding the new WEC rules and the prospect of fielding two cars. “The challenge ahead is immense, and we are looking forward to the journey,” he said.
Aston Martin’s Legacy and Future
Aston Martin’s entry into the Hypercar class ensures the brand’s presence across all levels of endurance racing, from Hypercar to GT4, and the FIA Formula 1® World Championship. Over the past 95 years, more than 240 drivers have raced Aston Martins at Le Mans, making it a significant part of the company’s heritage.
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