Aston Martin Unveils 1,064-HP Valhalla Spider

Aston Martin has introduced the Valhalla Spider, a convertible version of its plug-in-hybrid supercar that the automaker says can reach 217 mph with the roof removed while retaining the coupe’s 1,064-horsepower powertrain. The Spider uses a removable fabric roof as standard rather than a powered folding top. Aston Martin says the fabric roof limits maximum speed to 124 mph. Buyers can choose a removable carbon-fibre hardtop that permits the full 217 mph, but it cannot be stowed in the car. The company also offers a rain cover for use when the vehicle is parked. Aston Martin says the Spider shares the coupe’s acceleration time of 2.5 seconds from zero to 62 mph. Its mid-mounted 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 works with three electric motors to produce a combined 1,064 horsepower and 1,100 newton-metres of torque. The car retains the coupe’s plug-in-hybrid system and eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. To manage airflow with the roof removed, the Spider has a detachable wind deflector that folds into three sections and fits in storage areas in the door sills. The engine air intake above the cabin has been redesigned and raised by 35 millimetres. Aston Martin says it has also...