Chevrolet has unveiled another version of the Corvette, yet another even more powerful variant of its super sports car. After the ZR1, here is the ZR1X, a bomb offering a total output of 1,250 hp.
Yes, you read that correctly.
It goes without saying that no other variant throughout the model's history has offered that kind of power. To manage it all, there's still an 8-speed auto transmission linked to the rear wheels, while for the front wheels, an electric motor offering 186 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque provides reinforcement, helping get to that crazy 1,250 hp total.
"From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with the ZR1X in mind. It is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history," said Ken Morris, senior VP at GM.
Power, performance and technology
The new model takes in the ZR1's 5.5L twin-turbo V8, an engine that features a flat-plane crankshaft configuration.
The front-wheel drive setup is, of course, borrowed from the E-Ray hybrid variant. It's worth noting that there's no physical connection between the ZR1X's two energy sources and the electrified propulsion system. Recharging is done via the regenerative efforts of the front drive unit.
The ZR1X's battery pack is 1.9 kWh, similar to the E-Ray. The usable energy has been increased to offer sharper acceleration. This results in a mind-blowing 0-97 km/h time of less than 2.0 seconds.
For the quarter mile, Chevrolet indicates that the time will be under 9.0 seconds.
Driving dynamics and track focus
Chevrolet says the chassis control system designed for the E-Ray has received a significant update for this ZR1X. They have essentially sharpened everything possible to improve on-road handling and track performance. Chevrolet explains that the “ZR1X continuously monitors driver behavior and vehicle conditions to combine power across both axles to ensure responsiveness and traction management.”
A multitude of features have been developed for the track. Which makes sense because, let's be frank, that's where this model can truly be exploited, not on public roads. For example, there's a mode to preserve energy for long sessions, another to maximise power for a qualifying lap.
The brakes have been designed specifically for this variant. The carbon-ceramic brake discs are 16.5 inches at the front, to give you an idea. The model is shod with Michelin PS4S tyres.
Finally, the ZTK performance package is offered as an option. It gives the model stiffer springs and Michelin Pilot Cup 2R tires, notably.
The list of the car's features is near-endless, actually. We’ve given you here the essentials.
