It’s been 70 years since Chevrolet released its iconic Corvette. Iteration after iteration, Chevy’s sports car has done a remarkable job of winning over the latest generations of auto enthusiasts. The last C8 model, for instance, transplanted its small-block V8 from the front to the middle, allowing it to hit ‘Vette-best performance numbers.
This year, with the announcement of the first-ever electric Corvette E-Ray, Chevy is continuing their long-standing tradition of delivering a next-gen performance car to the next generation.
“Corvette has been a halo for Chevrolet since 1953,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet. “E-Ray’s unprecedented blend of confidence, luxury performance, sophistication and style provides a new reason for more people to experience Corvette.”
For the Corvette puritans—you know who you are—this electric Chevy may be irksome. But for those of us who enjoy the art of progression, it will be quite the opposite. Here’s why this electric Corvette is bound to once again change the rules of the game.
The Fastest Corvette Ever
Essentially, this is a Corvette you all know any love; it’s just one that’s taken advantage of the world’s most innovative electrified powertrain system, making it the quickest production Corvette of all time. Fitted with a 6.2L LT2 V8 and electric motor that produces 655 combined horsepower, the E-Ray zips from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds—the fastest time ever recorded by a ‘Vette—and can break a quarter mile in 10.5 seconds. Thrust is immediate thanks to its low-end torque, and you’ll certainly feel it from your heel to the tip of your noggin.
All-new for the ‘Vette nameplate is the addition of an intelligent electric All-Wheel Drive (eAWD) system, which automatically adapts to the road and traction conditions. When the asphalt calls for it, eAWD pushes power to the front or back wheels, giving drivers more stability and traction. Standard Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and GM’s brilliant Magnetic Select Ride Control 4.0 only add to its aggressive nature.
Stealth Mode is yet another new-to-Corvette feature. This system initiates an all-electric driving mode that enables the ‘Vette to go short distances, at up to 45 mph, solely using electric power. It’s automatically disengaged when the vehicle goes over 45, its 12-volt lithium-ion battery is depleted, or the driver revs up the torque. It also makes the hybrid Corvette run quietly, as to not disrupt the whole neighborhood.
E-Ray Performance App, which is operated via the sports car’s infotainment screen, provides drivers with technical specs and stats on how well the propulsion system is running. Gauges display dynamic power input from the electric motor-V8 duo, the Dyno offering provides graphs of power and torque across customizable time intervals, and the Data option highlights overall electrical performance and efficiency. The goal? Make sure drivers squeeze the most juice out of their ‘Vette. (That goal is even easier to accomplish thanks to the addition of a standard Head-Up Display and available Performance Data Recorder.)
Available for sale as a convertible or coupe in 2023, the new Chevy electric Convertible is bound to open eyes as the best new sports car of the year. Pre-order yours by contacting a Chevy dealer near you.
Want to learn more or place an order for the Silverado EV or Corvette E-Ray in Kansas City? Call McCarthy Chevy Overland Park at (866) 453-2062 to speak with a member of our sales team. We can help you build a new Chevy electric vehicle or Corvette E-Ray to your specifications.
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