Chevrolet has unleashed the unthinkable in the Corvette ZR1, featuring the most powerful V8 ever produced by an American automaker. Available in both coupe and convertible variants, the ZR1 is designed to challenge the world's best supercars with its iconic design and mind-bending specs. The Corvette ZR1 is powered by a 5.5L twin-turbocharged DOHC flat-plane crank V8 engine, named the LT7. This engine delivers 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm, making it the most powerful factory Corvette and the most powerful V8 ever produced by an American manufacturer. The ZR1 boasts a GM-estimated top speed of over 215 mph on the racetrack and a GM-estimated sub-10-second quarter mile time. Its carbon fiber aero package generates over 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed and features a split rear window, a nod to one of the most iconic Corvette designs. "The team that revolutionized Corvette with a mid-engine architecture took on another challenge: take ZR1 to the next level," said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet. "Corvette ZR1 is about pushing the envelope with raw power and cutting-edge innovation. From Stingray to Z06, E-Ray, and now ZR1, the Corvette family continues to elevate with each new iteration - and challenge the best in the world." The ZR1's 5.5L LT7 engine starts with the same architecture as the Z06's LT6, the most powerful naturally aspirated production V8 engine, and enhances it with twin turbochargers. This engine, called the "Gemini V8," was engineered from the ground up for massive power and capability. Unique features of the LT7 engine include head castings with unique ports and a larger combustion chamber, optimized valve train timing and lift profile, a completely new intake system, and dual ball bearing turbochargers integrated with the exhaust manifold for quick response. The LT7 engine also features added block and head machining to support turbo cooling and oiling, counterweight changes, and a secondary port fuel injection system. The Corvette ZR1's eight-speed dual-clutch transmission has been upgraded with inner and outer input shaft enhancements, increased gear capacity, and refined oil management to support the increased power. The LT7 engine, purpose-built for four-figure horsepower, maintains the rev-happy character of the Gemini V8 family. It will be hand-assembled by master engine builders at the Performance Build Center in Kentucky. The Corvette ZR1 offers exceptional speed and aerodynamics, with over 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed. Two setups are available, including the standard chassis with a sleek body, lower drag, and a small spoiler, and the optional ZTK performance package, which adds an aggressive high-downforce rear wing, front dive planes, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires. Corvette ZR1's aerodynamics are further enhanced by a flow-through hood, carbon fiber side profile air ducts, and unique fresh air intake ducts. The car also features a revolutionary brake system with carbon ceramic rotors for increased durability and reduced brake component temperatures. The front rotors measure 15.7 inches and the rear rotors 15.4 inches, making them the largest ever equipped on a Corvette. The ZR1 revives the split rear window design, last seen on the C2-generation Corvette. This design element, available in exposed weave or body color, increases heat extraction from the engine compartment. Additional design features include a carbon fiber roof, unique aluminum wheel designs, and an optional new carbon-fiber wheel design exclusive to the ZR1. The LT7 engine intake is finished in Edge Blue, adding to the engine's visual appeal. Inside, the ZR1's cockpit features unique badging, a new stitch pattern, and a boost gauge, marking the first factory turbocharged Corvette. Customization options include new exterior and interior colors, full-length racing stripes, and various brake caliper colors. The Corvette ZR1 will enter production in 2025 at GM's Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky, joining the Corvette Stingray, Corvette Z06, and Corvette E-Ray. Further details on price and availability will be shared closer to production. Key highlights include: The ZR1 achieved a faster peak speed on its first lap at the Milford Proving Ground's MRC test track than the production C7 ZR1. Engineers recorded a sub-10-second quarter-mile time on the ZR1's first launch. All four test drivers clocked over 200 mph peak speed on their first laps at the Nürburgring. FOLLOW ME ELSEWHERE --------------------------------------------------- X: https://twitter.com/maxspooner63 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxspooner63/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maxspooner63 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maxspooner63/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxspooner63/
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