Slowly, the future of C8 is beginning to take shape.
Although the Chevrolet Corvette C8 represents a thrilling new evolution of the iconic car, we know that it is only one of a number of powerful variants. Rumours about Z06, ZR1 and Zora models have been circulating for years. There are also rumblings about hybrid and all-electric versions. Chevy is still unsure of what’s next. However, a new Trend report that was based on anonymous information details the upcoming Corvette variants.
The report suggests that we can expect five new variants in the next four years: Z06 (2022), ZR1 (2033) PHEV (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR2 (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR1 (2023), ZR1 (2024), EV (2024) and Zora (2025). The report also breaks down the differences between each variant. Zora is the most interesting variant, and one that we’ll have to wait the longest for – The Zora will be the ultimate C8 Corvette performance, combining the twin-turbocharged, 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 with the electric motors of the hybrid variant. This combination will produce more than 1,000 horsepower (745kilowatts in the halo hypercar).
The ZR1 will be placed below it and only its screaming V8 will drive it. This application will use the twin-turbo, 5.5-liter engine to produce 825-850 horsepower (615-633 Kilowatts). It is estimated that the price will start at $120,000. This is well below the $150,000 price tag for the Zora. The report also mentions that the Z06 will be powered by a 5.5-liter V8. However, it will make 615-625 horsepower (458-466kW) and around480 pound-feet (605 Newton-meters). Chevy claims that the engine could reach 9,000 rpm as it was compared against the Ferrari 458 Speciale.
Chevy also has two electrified versions in the works: an all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid and a pure electric version. The PHEV will slot between Z06 and ZR1. It will have three electric motors – one on each axle, and possibly one between the engine-and-gearbox – and a single engine. It could be the naturally-aspirated 5.5-liter or the 6.2-liter or another engine. It is expected to generate 775 horsepower and cost approximately $100,000. The all-electric version is the wildcard of the quintet, but little information is available. It should be less expensive than the ZR1.