Utah Police Stopped A $1.1M Aston Martin Prototype For "Speeding" | Carscoops

      An Aston Martin Valhalla prototype was pulled over by law enforcement on I-70 near Green River, Utah, eight hours ago.

      The police apprehended the $1.1 million exotic car for speeding on the highway, with the Sheriff’s Office reporting that the vehicle was “burning up” the road. It is unclear if the test driver received a citation or merely a warning.

      You never know what surprises a patrol day may hold, especially in the picturesque areas of the American West. Recently, deputies from the Emery County Sheriff’s Office in Utah encountered an Aston Martin valued at approximately £850,000 or $1.12 million at current exchange rates.

      The hypercar involved is a one-of-a-kind Valhalla prototype undergoing testing. Authorities mentioned that the officers offered the driver some advice on driving manners.

      The incident took place near Green River, Utah, about 90 minutes from Grand Junction, Colorado, in a stretch of I-70 renowned for its light traffic and beautiful scenery.

      The reason for the stop was that the Aston Martin was reportedly "burning up the road" within the county, although no specific speed was disclosed. Other drivers had complained about the vehicle's reckless driving. ECSO Deputy Dylan Keele and UHP Trooper Dakota Adams eventually encountered the car.

      The driver indicated that he was testing and adjusting the vehicle, which seems reasonable. Photographs shared by the Sheriff’s Office show stickers on the vehicle's front and rear indicating that it is equipped with a high-voltage plug-in hybrid powertrain.

      The Valhalla boasts a mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 paired with three electric motors, producing up to 1,065 horsepower and 811 lb-ft (1,099 Nm) of torque. Had it chosen to flee, it could have easily outpaced the police vehicles. Nonetheless, the interaction was reportedly a friendly one.

      “Deputy Keele was able to guide the driver on proper driving etiquette and handle some matters. It was an enjoyable experience for the officers,” authorities noted.

      It remains unclear whether a ticket was issued. Additionally, it’s uncertain if this particular vehicle might be more than just a routine Valhalla prototype, given that production is already happening, making it somewhat unusual for Aston Martin to still be fine-tuning the car. There may be more to this situation than appears at first glance.

      Thanks to Steve H. for the tip!

      Photos courtesy of the Emery County Sheriff’s Office.