2025 Corvette ZR1 - 1,064 HP Hypercar With 215+ MPH Top Speed
- Chevrolet has unveiled the all-new rear-wheel drive Corvette ZR1.
- It features a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 with 1,064 hp and 828 lb-ft of torque.
- When the model is launched next year, it will have a top speed in excess of 215 mph.
The engine is known as the LT7 and it has a lot in common with the LT6 that resides in the Corvette Z06. However, it’s been extensively upgraded to handle the new turbochargers and added performance.
Highlights include a larger combustion chamber and new head castings with unique ports. The valve timing and lift profile has also been optimized for forced induction, while there’s a new intake and “intelligent anti-lag engine calibration techniques.” The mill also sports unique pistons and connecting rods as well as a secondary fuel injection system.
The powertrain improvements extend beyond the engine compartment as the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission has been thoroughly revised. It features wider profile gears, stronger shafts, and improved lubrication. There are also improvements to “handle the massive torque of the LT7.”
Thanks to all these changes, Corvette executive chief engineer Tadge Juechter told us the ZR1 “pulls like a freight train.” While Chevrolet wasn’t ready to give hard numbers, officials said the car should be able to hit a top speed “comfortably” above 215 mph (346 km/h). They went on to suggest the top speed could be significantly higher than that and confirmed the model won’t be electronically limited.
Sticking with the performance theme, four test drivers hit 200 mph (322 km/h) on the Nürburgring during their first outing with the car.