General Motors has revealed new details about the upcoming C8 Corvette ZR1, including confirmation that it will be a 2025 model year vehicle.
While the official reveal is set for July 25th, the exact date buyers can expect the car to be available remains unknown.
A leaked dealer email suggests allocations for the ZR1 might begin in the first half of July, though it’s not clear if production will start alongside the 2025 Stingray, E-Ray, and Z06 which are scheduled to roll out in September.
Despite the lack of official availability date, some information about the ZR1’s powertrain has surfaced.
It will reportedly use a twin-turbocharged LT7 V8 engine mated to a new dual-clutch transaxle with the code M1K, different from the transmissions used in other Corvette models.
Leaks also suggest the LT7 will be a dual-overhead-cam engine with Active Fuel Management, unlike the Z06’s naturally aspirated LT6.
Speculation swirls around the inclusion of cylinder deactivation technology in the upcoming LT7 engine. While its presence remains unconfirmed, it suggests a shift from the LT6’s flat-plane crankshaft to a cross-plane design.
This wouldn’t be unprecedented, as Ford made a similar switch with their Voodoo and Predator engines, prioritizing low-end torque for a different driving experience.
Even without the flat-plane crank, the LT7 promises exhilarating performance, though it likely won’t reach the stratospheric heights of the Lamborghini Huracan successor.
That car utilizes a completely different engine layout, highlighting the distinct goals of each machine.
The LT7 equips the upcoming C8 Corvette ZR1, following a powerful legacy set by its predecessor.
The C7 ZR1 boasted an impressive 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque, solidifying the Corvette’s reputation for exceptional performance.
