American automaker Chevrolet has revealed the 2019 Corvette ZR1, a supercar that pushes Corvette’s performance legacy with the highest power, greatest track performance and most advanced technology in its production history.
The Corvette ZR1’s exclusive LT5 supercharged engine, which is rated at an SAE-certified 755 horsepower and 969Nm of torque, is establishing a new benchmark in performance. The ZR1 also elevates Corvette’s track capability with two wind-tunnel-honed aerodynamics packages, including an available High Wing that provides an estimated 430kg of downforce.
The ZR1’s LT5 6.2-litre V8 engine advances Corvette’s supercharging legacy, which began with the 2009 sixth-generation ZR1 and continued with the 2015 seventh-generation Z06.
The LT5 delivers the highest output ever for a Chevrolet production vehicle, thanks in part to a new, more efficient intercooled supercharger system that offers 52 percent more displacement than the Z06’s LT4 supercharger. GM’s first dual-fuel-injection system, which employs primary direct injection and supplemental port injection, helps the LT5 achieve its record output.
The LT5 motor is available with 7-speed manual and 8-speed paddle-shift automatic transmissions. It’s the first time an automatic transmission has been offered in a ZR1.
The 2019 Corvette ZR1’s aggressive appearance is driven by function, contributing to its distinction as the fastest production Corvette to date.
An all-new front fascia is designed to channel air for propulsion-system and drivetrain cooling, with four new radiators bringing the heat-exchanger total to 13. A special carbon fibre “halo” hood is open in the middle to clear the LT5 engine’s supercharger/intercooler assembly.
Additional features, including aero packages with stanchion-mounted wings, help push the ZR1 harder onto the track for more confident handling and faster lap times. Top speed of the Corvette ZR1 is over 338km/h.
The ZR1 will offer two aero packages: a standard rear Low Wing (which delivers the highest top speed and helps generate up to 70 percent more downforce than the Z06’s base aero package) and an optional two-way-adjustable High Wing (which offers maximum downforce on the track for the quickest lap times and about 60 percent more downforce than the Z06 with the available Z07 Performance Package). All 2019 Corvette models also feature a Chevrolet-first, downforce-enhancing front underwing.
The adjustable High Wing is part of the new ZTK Performance Package, which also includes a front splitter with carbon fibre end-caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer tyres, and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning for greater cornering grip.
Both of the ZR1’s wings are tied into the chassis, like the Corvette Racing C7.R racecar, for strength and stability.
The Chevy Corvette ZR1 revealed also debuted a dynamic Sebring Orange Design Package. Centred on its Sebring Orange Tintcoat exterior colour, the package also includes orange brake callipers, orange rocker and splitter accent stripes, orange seatbelts, orange interior stitching and unique, bronze aluminium interior trim.
