Another short, cryptic teaser video has been released by Chevrolet, and it appears to confirm what we all suspected.
Key Takeaways
- Chevrolet teases Corvette ZR1 in short video clip.
- Teaser appears to show two turbochargers momentarily.
- Upwards of 800 horsepower expected.
Chevrolet has taken to YouTube for the second time to tease the upcoming Corvette ZR1. The first teaser told us that “the unthinkable is coming,” which we took as a reference to the likelihood that the ZR1 would be turbocharged for the first time. Chevy is leaning into the “unthinkable” with the second clip, too, and this time, the suggestion of turbocharged power seems a little more obvious. Take a look at the video below and sharpen your gaze around the halfway mark, where it appears that the accelerating Corvette on the screen has turned plumes of smoke into a pair of turbochargers.
LT7 Expected To Power ZR1
The rumor mill strongly suggests that the ZR1 will take the 5.5-liter LT6 engine from the Corvette Z06, strap on a pair of turbochargers, and become the LT7. The LT6 already produces 670 horsepower in the Z06, so adding forced induction should easily take the V8 engine past 800 hp.
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Spy videos of the ZR1 testing on the track suggest that it will only be available with a dual-clutch transmission, which makes sense, given how much power will be going to a single axle. Not many manual transmissions can sustain elevated torque levels for prolonged periods, and GM wants to give itself the best possible chance of competing with the world’s best; slowing the car down with a manual would not be ideal.
Coming This Summer
Chevrolet still has not given us an exact reveal date, only saying that the ZR1 will be revealed in the summer. Officially, summer started on June 1st, so we’re likely to see the new ‘Vette before long. After that, the C8 generation will have one last hurrah with the Zora model, expected to arrive with turbocharging, electrification, and AWD. According to leaked documents, the Zora will debut next year, likely for the 2026 model year. Until then, the ZR1 will be the king of them all, and we fully expect it to take the fight to the world’s best exotics and win.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 May Get Active Aero Inspired By Pagani Huayra
The tech could also find a home on the Zora.