The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has returned, setting new benchmarks with its extraordinary performance and iconic design. This latest iteration boasts the most powerful V8 engine ever produced by an American auto manufacturer, challenging the world’s top supercars in both coupe and convertible variants.
“We went into the ZR1 program with lofty goals, but even our first development tests on-track showed the teams were already exceeding them,” said Tadge Juechter, executive chief engineer, Corvette. “As we worked to develop this car, we continued to leap past expectations, and we knew we had a special Corvette on our hands.”
The Heart of the Beast: LT7 Engine
At the core of the Corvette ZR1 is the all-new 5.5L twin-turbocharged DOHC flat-plane crank V8 engine, known as the LT7. This powerhouse delivers a staggering 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm, setting a new standard for factory Corvettes. The LT7 engine features:
- Head castings with unique ports and a larger combustion chamber
- Valve train timing and lift profile optimized for forced induction with higher exhaust temp enabling exhaust valves
- Completely new intake system tuned for twin turbochargers
- CNC machined combustion chamber, exhaust and intake ports specific to the LT7
- Dual, ported shroud, ball bearing, mono-scroll (76 mm) turbochargers integrated with the exhaust manifold to reduce the volume and distance from the exhaust valve to the turbine wheel for quick response with electronic wastegates
- Intelligent anti-lag engine calibration techniques specifically for ZR1 that adapt and react to driving style
In addition, Chevrolet added the following changes for the LT7 compared to the LT6 in the Z06 to ensure reliability at the elevated power level:
- Added block and head machining to support turbo cooling and oiling
- Counterweight changes to account for a unique piston and unique connecting rod for the crank train
- A secondary port fuel injection system was added to deliver the needed additional fuel to support the engine’s massive output.
While the ZR1 continues to feature a dual-clutch automatic transmission, Chevrolet says they have made numerous changes to handle the output of the new LT7, such as:
- Inner and outer input shaft upgrades
- Increased gear capacity with strength increased via shot peening for all gears
- Final drive refinements
- Oil management to support increased vehicle longitudinal and lateral capability
- Increased control valves to accommodate the higher required clutch clamp load for LT7
These innovations contribute to a GM-estimated top speed of over 215 mph and a sub-10-second quarter-mile time.
Pushing the Boundaries of Performance
The Corvette ZR1’s performance extends beyond its engine. The vehicle includes a comprehensive suite of aerodynamic enhancements, producing over 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed. The design includes:
- Flow-Through Hood and Carbon Fiber Side Ducts: Improve cooling and aerodynamics.
- Unique Fresh Air Intake Ducts: Ensure optimal air cooling for the turbochargers.
The optional ZTK performance package adds even more track-focused elements, such as a high-downforce rear wing, front dive planes, and underbody strakes for increased downforce.
Unique suspension tuning, including stiffer springs and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, is included in the ZTK package. Amid testing and development, the ZR1 tackled some of the world’s most demanding racetracks, including the Nürburgring, Road Atlanta, and Virginia International Raceway.
Carbon Aero, featuring all aerodynamic equipment from the ZTK package, is available on the standard ZR1 chassis as well.
Design and Heritage
The ZR1’s design is a nod to Corvette’s storied past, featuring the return of the split rear window, a beloved element from the C2-generation Corvette. This design choice, combined with a carbon fiber roof and unique aluminum and carbon-fiber wheels, highlights the car’s blend of form and function.
“We didn’t approach this decision lightly, we know this is a beloved element from Corvette’s history,” said Phil Zak, executive design director, Chevrolet. “Not only does this element provide function, but we were able to integrate passionate design into the form and do it in a way that paid homage to Corvette’s history. ZR1 felt like the right time to bring the split-window back.”
Interior and Customization
The Corvette ZR1’s cockpit showcases meticulous attention to detail, featuring distinctive ZR1 badging on an interior plaque, sill plates, and the steering wheel. The interior also includes a unique finishing stitch pattern on the doors, exclusive to the 3LZ trim. A notable addition is the boost gauge, highlighting the first-ever factory turbocharged Corvette in the model’s history.
Customers will enjoy a wide range of customization options for both the exterior and interior. The 2025 Corvette lineup introduces new color choices, including the striking Competition Yellow, the vibrant Hysteria Purple, and the nostalgic Sebring Orange, a nod to the popular shade from the previous C7-generation Corvette ZR1. Inside, the new Habanero interior and Blue Stitch option offer even more personalization. Additional choices include various full-length racing stripes, brake caliper colors—featuring an exclusive blue option—and diverse seat belt color selections, allowing owners to tailor their Corvette ZR1 to their unique tastes.
Production and Availability
The Corvette ZR1 is set to begin production in 2025 at the General Motors Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky. It will join the Corvette Stingray, Z06, and E-Ray in Chevrolet’s high-performance lineup. Pricing and availability details will be announced closer to the production date.
Conclusion
The Corvette team came out swinging with the new ZR1. With its powerful LT7 engine, innovative aerodynamic features, and design choices that honor Corvette’s legacy, the ZR1 is poised to challenge the best in the world and set new standards in performance.