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Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X 2026
The most powerful V8 in US history combined with eAWD
General Motors will add the high-performance hybrid Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X to its lineup starting with the 2026 model year.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X combines the most powerful 5.5-liter V8 LT7 twin-turbo engine in American history, boasting 1,078 PS and 1,122 Nm of maximum torque, with the hybrid powertrain installed in the Corvette E-Ray, producing a maximum system output of 1,267 PS.
Power from the internal combustion engine (ICE) is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), and combined with a 188 PS electric motor mounted on the front axle, the “eAWD” all-wheel drive system delivers incredible traction.
General Motors Senior Vice President Ken Morris commented on the 2026 Corvette ZR1X:
“From the early stages of development of the current Corvette, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with the ZR1X in mind. We can confidently say that this mid-engine architecture is the most revolutionary Corvette platform ever. Now, with the addition of the ZR1X, Corvette will have a broad lineup to meet every need and deliver world-class performance at every level.”
Increased energy output compared to E-Ray
The 1.9 kWh battery pack has the same capacity as the Corvette E-Ray, but the increased amount of available energy allows for increased power output from the motor mounted on the front axle.
The previously introduced ZR1 embodies the rear-wheel drive tradition established by previous models. The Corvette development team added an all-wheel drive system to the ZR1 as a new interpretation of performance. The ZR1X inherits the technology platform of the hybrid sports car “Corvette E-Ray” that will debut in 2024, and employs a system that combines a high-voltage battery pack and electric motor that drive the front wheels with a V8 engine that drives the rear wheels. The hybrid system does not require charging, and power is supplied by the front wheel regenerative system.
The 1.9kWh battery pack is positioned low on the front axle and is specially designed to quickly switch between short-term power output and charging. This robust battery pack has been tested on every circuit in the world and has also passed the rigorous 24-hour endurance test. While the capacity itself is the same as the E-Ray, the increased usable energy delivers even greater performance.
The compact electric motor mounted on the front axle produces 188 PS and 196 Nm on its own. While maintaining the same shape and size as the E-Ray’s front drive unit, it now boasts an increased performance of 26 PS and 27 Nm. The motor is capable of driving up to 160 mph (257 km/h).
