Aston Martin's F1-inspired powerhouse has been seen undergoing tests as record-setting assertions come to light.

Created for an exceptionally affluent client

In April, the German publication Auto Motor und Sport indicated that the vehicle is a unique creation commissioned by Ken Griffin, the American billionaire and founder of Citadel hedge fund. As per the report, Griffin requested Aston Martin to create the quickest track car in existence. While Aston had some speedy models, it certainly did not boast the fastest. Thus, the team went back to the drawing board.

The concept reportedly originated as a design presented to a select group of clients at Silverstone, with Aston Martin Performance Technologies, the engineering consultancy associated with its Formula 1 operations, believed to be overseeing the project. Some sources have hinted that Adrian Newey might be involved. Although this remains unverified, the car certainly resembles something that a brilliant engineer would sketch in his renowned notebook.

What’s under the hood?

No official details have been released, but the auditory clues are telling. Sources that have reviewed the footage agree it resembles the sound of the Cosworth-built 6.5-litre V12 found in the Valkyrie, which produces around 1,160hp with some hybrid support in the road variant.

Opinions vary on whether this unique model retains the hybrid system or operates solely on the V12, as the track-exclusive Valkyrie AMR Pro does. Speculations suggest total power could be approximately 1,200hp.

Could it outpace an F1 car?

The most significant, potentially concerning assertion from Auto Motor und Sport is that this vehicle could be significantly quicker than an F1 car. This is plausible, as the realm of serious hypercars is not heavily regulated, lacking minimum weight requirements and aerodynamic restrictions. Consequently, the design possibilities are virtually limitless (depending on the financial backing of the project).

If it approaches that level of speed, it would pose a serious challenge for track records, including the Porsche 919 Evo's 5min 19.55sec lap at the Nurburgring Nordschleife.

This wouldn't be the only vehicle pursuing that ambition. Red Bull's RB17, developed under Newey before his transition to Aston Martin, targets a similar demographic of affluent buyers seeking F1-level performance.

For the time being, this one-off remains in the testing phase, and Aston Martin is remaining tight-lipped about when, or if, it will unveil the completed car.