The Aston Martin Valkyrie Hypercar has made its highly anticipated debut at the FIA World Endurance Championship Prologue test in Qatar, marking a significant milestone for the brand's racing program.

Heart of Racing has revived Aston Martin's original project, bringing two V12-powered Valkyries to compete in both FIA WEC and IMSA championships. The cars have already impressed with their striking appearance and distinctive engine sound during initial testing in Lusail.

The Valkyrie represents the first true Hypercar that aligns with original LMH regulations, being a prototype derived from a road car. It presents Aston Martin's strongest opportunity since the 1950s to secure an overall victory at Le Mans.

During testing, the THOR team completed 549 laps, demonstrating promising reliability with only minor new-car issues. Driver Harry Tincknell notes the car's aggressive nature and less complex operation compared to other prototypes, making it enjoyable to drive at the limit.

The team structure combines experienced Multimatic staff from previous Ford GT and Mazda DPi programs with new talent. Ross Gunn joins as a driver sharing the No. 007 with Tincknell and Tom Gamble, competing in both WEC and IMSA series.

Looking ahead, the team will make its IMSA GTP debut at Sebring, followed by a crucial 24-hour endurance test. Team principal Ian James emphasizes their focus on reliability, though acknowledges there are still unknowns to discover.

The Valkyrie's non-hybrid V12 Cosworth engine stands out in an era dominated by turbocharged powerplants. While its true potential may not be clear until midseason when sufficient Balance of Performance data is available, the project represents an exciting blend of traditional racing heritage with modern engineering.

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