As the automotive industry continues to advance, its participants are launching new and improved models of their previous cars, including General Motors (GM), which has just revealed the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, a 1,000 horse-power hypercar.
Indeed, boasting 1,250 horsepower (that’s 1,064 HP from the LT7 5.5L V8 engine and 186 HP from the eAWD – electrified all-wheel drive), the new Chevrolet Corvette is a “true American hypercar and the most advanced Corvette ever,” GM stated on June 17.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X specifications
Aside from the powerful LT7 V8 engine, the ZR1X also offers 828 lb-ft of torque sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Additionally, the V8 includes dual 76-mm turbochargers, a ‘maniturbo’ exhaust design (manifold + turbocharger housing), and dynamic anti-lag controls.
It draws upon the 2024 E-Ray, the first-ever AWD Corvette, combining a high-voltage battery pack and electric motor driving the front axle with V8 propulsion turning the rear axle. However, the ZR1X removes the physical connection between the two power sources and the plug-in for the electrified propulsion system.
Specifically, the charging happens through regenerative efforts from the front drive unit, whereas the battery pack’s design, set low and central within the rigid spine of the chassis, facilitates rapid cycling between applying bursts of power and charging – with just 1.9 kWh, like E-Ray.
Meanwhile, the electric motor on the front axle achieves 145 lb-ft of torque on demand, retains the E-Ray front drive unit’s shape and size, but adds strengthened internal components and improved energy deployment to generate more horsepower and torque. The front axle can apply power through 160 mph (258 km/h) before disconnecting.
Commenting on the reveal, General Motors senior VP Ken Morris explained that:
“From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with ZR1X in mind. (…) This is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history, supporting the widest range of American sports cars and delivering world-class performance at every level.”
Elsewhere, the world’s first electric AWD muscle car is this year’s Dodge Charger Daytona, a powerful vehicle tested in all weather conditions, including winter, thanks to its rear axle featuring a mechanical slip differential, and the Wet/Snow drive mode maximizing traction and stability – just to name a few.
Featured image courtesy of the General Motors website.
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