A Corvette-branded SUV would have been unthinkable a few years back – but, in the current landscape, it’s quite possible
3 hours ago
by Thanos Pappas
This story contains speculative CarScoops renderings that are not related to, nor endorsed by Chevrolet or GM.
As SUVs dominate the automotive market, it was only a matter of time before General Motors explored the possibility of using the iconic Corvette nameplate in a high-riding vehicle. Recent reports suggest that Corvette will soon become a brand in its own right, with plans to offer a sporty crossover and a low-slung four-door coupe alongside various versions of the traditional two-door sports car. While the Corvette SUV is not expected to launch until 2025, we’ve gathered all the available information available at this time.
Read: Corvette Said To Launch As A Sub-Brand In 2025 With SUV And Four-Door Coupe
A sportscar-inspired SUV is not a taboo anymore, as Porsche, Lamborghini, Lotus, Aston Martin, Maserati, and Ferrari have already joined the game generating huge profits for their shareholders. In a world where the Ford Mustang Mach-E sells more units than the regular Mustang, it would be foolish – in financial terms – for GM not to exploit the Corvette branding further. Although some Corvette fans may not embrace this new direction, the numbers speak for themselves.
What Could It Look Like?
The crucial part for designers is not only to do justice to the historic nameplate but also to allow enough differentiation between the high-riding Corvette and the plethora of sporty-looking crossovers and SUVs from other GM brands. It’s crucial that the new model doesn’t come across as just a sportier Chevrolet Blazer. To achieve that, the design must be more exotic, aggressive, and premium.
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While we have yet to receive any indication on the design direction or form that GM has chosen for the upcoming Corvette SUV, there are various possibilities ranging from a sleek and muscular coupe-crossover with four doors and a liftback, similar to the Ferrari Purosangue, to a proposal more reminiscent of an Aston Martin DBX or a Lamborghini Urus or perhaps something entirely different . To explore these possibilities, we have created a series of speculative renderings using digital software and artificial intelligence with our guidance and input, showcasing different shapes and forms to illustrate the various options available.
In any case, the Corvette SUV will most likely feature large-diameter alloy wheels and a muscular body. Despite the difference in size and proportions, it could take some inspiration from the C8 Corvette although the design language will most likely evolve by the time of its launch. The zero-emission powertrain makes the typical oversized intakes obsolete, so designers have to come up with other solutions to make the SUV look sporty.
What About The EV Powertrain?
Information on the zero-emission Corvette SUV remains scarce but the EV is expected to be utilize GM’s Ultium architecture, featuring a high-density battery with 800V technology, capable of 350 kW rapid charging.
According to insider sources, the powertrain for the Corvette SUV is expected to consist of high-revving and high-output electric motors, efficient inverters, and a sophisticated two-speed transmission. All-wheel-drive with torque vectoring and all-wheel-steering is also anticipated to be included to enhance performance and handling, giving the vehicle a more sports car-like feel. Additionally, it is expected to feature a patented cooling system and advanced software to ensure safety and optimal performance.
With an expected market launch in 2025 as a 2026 MY, we wouldn’t be surprised if camouflaged prototypes of the Corvette SUV make their first appearance in late 2023 or early 2024. We also shouldn’t rule out the possibility of an early preview from General Motors in the form of a concept. After all, a sporty Corvette-style SUV that was spotted in the background of an official presentation two years ago indicated that design work might already be underway behind closed doors.
Would you like it if the Corvette SUV looked like the speculative illustrations seen here or would you like to see something entirely different? How do you reckon GM should approach this expansion? Let us know what you think about the “Crossvette” in the comments section below.