General Motors has officially introduced the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X 2026, a machine that marks a new milestone in the evolution of American sports cars. The new ZR1X represents a reinvention of the traditional muscle car recipe, merging the V8 combustion engine with high-performance hybrid technology and all-wheel drive, features that place it on par with the most coveted European hypercars in both performance and technology.
This launch has generated a notable expectation This is the umpteenth twist for the current model, and it represents a turning point. The Corvette ZR1X is born from the combination of the legendary ZR1 and the E-Ray's hybrid technology, with the aim of offering an unprecedented experience under the Chevrolet brand. The goal is to promise figures and sensations that until now were historically reserved for much more expensive vehicles.
Hybrid engine: tremendous power on all four wheels…
At the heart of the new ZR1X is the 7-liter twin-turbo LT8 V5,5 engine., capable of generating 1.079 hp of power and 828 Nm of maximum torque on its own, sent directly to the rear axle via an 8-stage dual-clutch gearbox. However, the big news is on the front axle, where a 188 hp and 197 Nm electric motor expands the potential to add 1.250 total hp and equips the ZR1X with all-wheel drive, making it possible to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than two seconds and dispatch the quarter mile in just nine seconds.
The hybrid system uses a 1,9 kWh battery that recharges itself through regeneration., following the path marked by the Corvette E-Ray, although optimized for an even more prolonged and forceful power delivery. The electric motor maintains traction to the front axle up to 257 km/h, ensuring stability even at breakneck speeds.
Driving modes, technology and advanced aerodynamics
To adapt to the different uses required by a car of these characteristics, the ZR1X features three specific driving modes. It is about the modes Endurance (ideal for long runs on the track), qualifying (designed to achieve maximum performance per lap) and Push to pass, which unleashes full power instantly via a "Push-to-Pass" button on the steering wheel. Electronic management constantly adjusts the optimal combination of torque and power to suit the situation.
In terms of chassis and aerodynamics, Chevrolet offers two configurationsOne more road-oriented, and the other more radical, called the ZTK package, which stiffens the suspension, replaces the tires with Michelin Pilot Cup 2s, and adds aerodynamic elements. These include canards, a revised front splitter, and a fixed carbon fiber rear spoiler. Aerodynamic downforce can exceed 547 kg at top speed, allowing all the mechanical brutality to be used in fast corners and braking.
Brakes and control: J59 technology and cutting-edge materials
The new ZR1X's brake system includes the exclusive J59 package, with 419 mm (16,5 in) carbon-ceramic discs both front and rear, assisted by Alcon calipers 10 pistons on the front axle and 6 on the rear. According to the brand's data, this set achieves a maximum deceleration of 1,9 G, an outstanding figure even in the hypercar segment.
Furthermore, on-board electronics It monitors every relevant parameter, ensuring that traction, power distribution, and brake function maintain performance, whether on the track or on the open road.
Price, release date, and available versions…
While The official price has not yet been announced by Chevrolet.. Most estimates place the starting rate between 190.000 and $ 250.000, depending on the trim level and packages selected. This would make it the most expensive Corvette produced to date. However, its power-to-price ratio still falls short of direct European rivals that cost twice as much.
Production is scheduled to begin by the end of the year, with the first deliveries estimated for the final quarter of the year. Both coupe and convertible versions will be offered., both manufactured in Bowling Green, Kentucky (USA), and with hand-assembled engines to ensure maximum quality.
Source - Chevrolet
Images | Chevrolet
More information about this model
- Plazas 2
- Power 466 - 766 hp
- Consumption 12,3 - 15,1l/100km
- Valuation 4,3