2025 C8 ZR1

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Based on the LT6 flat-plane crankshaft V8 of the Z06, the upcoming LT7 is anticipated to produce over 800 horsepower. It is even possible that it could reach 850 horsepower. In comparison, the naturally aspirated LT6 has a rating of 670 horses and 460 pound-feet (624 Nm) of torque.

These are impressive figures for an engine with a displacement of 5.5 liters. However, the Z06’s wider tires, optional carbon-fiber wheels, dual-clutch transaxle, suspension, and the aerodynamic features of the optional Z07 package are also crucial in maximizing performance.

General Motors plans to enhance this formula further in 2025 by incorporating two turbochargers. The C8 ZR1 was showcased by the largest automaker of the Detroit Big Three at a dealer meeting in Las Vegas in November 2023. The presentation also included other vehicles such as the Duramax-engined Silverado ZR2 HD, the facelifted Tahoe and Suburban, the new Equinox, and the E-Ray. It is evident that the most powerful production Corvette of all time was the highlight of the event.

According to a dealer source named RichieRichZ06 from the Corvette Forum, the car was driven onto the stage and revved a few times while stationary. “To me, it sounded like a slightly quieter version of the LT6.” Additionally, Rich mentioned that the car had rubber marks on the sides from extensive Nurburgring testing, which is promising news.

Our spy photographers captured images of ZR1 prototypes at the Green Hell on multiple occasions, with GM’s test drivers pushing them to their limits. Considering the estimated power output and the ZR1’s connection to the Z06, it is evident that the newcomer has set a new lap record for Corvettes.

Currently, the fastest Corvette at the German circuit is the seventh-generation Z06, driven by Christian Gebhardt for Sport Auto in April 2017. Equipped with a manual transmission and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 ZP tires, it achieved an impressive lap time of 7 minutes and 13 seconds.

To put this lap time into perspective, it is worth noting that the G82 BMW M4 CSL required 7 minutes and 13.497 seconds to complete the Nurburgring’s 12.944-mile configuration (or 20.832 kilometers, if you prefer metric units). However, the fastest production car at the Green Hell is the Mercedes-AMG ONE, which completed the circuit in an astonishing 6 minutes and 30.705 seconds.

Considering that an individual with access to the GM parts catalog confirmed the regular production order codes for the LT7 engine and M1K transmission in October 2023, it is clear that the ZR1’s release is imminent. President Mark Reuss has already stated that Chevy has two new sports cars planned for 2024. One of these is the E-Ray, which began production at the Bowling Green assembly plant in December 2023.
 
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