The first-ever eAWD Corvette E-Ray uses an advanced electrified motor in addition to its V-8 to go from 0-60 in just 2.5 seconds!
Chevrolet is celebrating the Corvette’s 70th birthday in a big way with the launch of the first-ever all-wheel drive version of the storied sportscar — but Chevy isn’t stopping there. The 2023 model Corvette is packing another big first: hybrid power.
“In 1953, the enthusiastic reaction to the Chevrolet Corvette concept kicked off seven decades of passion, performance and American ingenuity,” said Mark Reuss, General Motors president. “E-Ray, as the first electrified, all-wheel-drive Corvette, takes it a step further and expands the promise of what Corvette can deliver.”
The 70th Anniversary Corvette E-Ray is powered by the now-familiar 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8 engine that puts out 495 HP and 470 lb-ft of TQ in the standard car, but adds an all-new electric motor that channels an additional 160 HP and 125 lb-ft of TQ through the front wheels from a a 1.9 kWh battery pack located between the seats. All told, the new E-Ray produces a combined 655 HP from its high-tech hybrid powertrain — that’s a massive amount of power that’s good enough to launch the new ‘Vette to 60 MPH in less than 3 seconds on its way to an astonishing and drama-free 10.5 sec. 1/4 mile.
“Corvettes must provide an exhilarating driving experience on backroads and tracks, and E-Ray nails it,” said Tadge Juechter, executive chief engineer, Corvette. “The electrification technology enhances the feeling of control in all conditions, adding an unexpected degree of composure.”
Pretty, Conventional
The electrified Corvette really shouldn’t be considered an “electric Corvette,” though you’ll probably hear it mentioned that way a few times. We say that because there is no plug in the new E-Ray, and the relatively small 1.9 kWh battery is charged by regenerative braking and the 6.2 L engine — the same basic idea behind the technology found in the first-generation Toyota Prius launched in 1997.
That’s not to say the new ‘Vette is “low tech,” however. The Corvette can operate in EV-only mode for short periods at speeds up to 45 MPH in what GM is calling “stealth mode.”
Additional features and technologies of the all-new E-Ray include:
- Stealth Mode, an electric drive mode for the street, up to 45 mph
- New lightweight lithium-ion 12-volt battery that supports the LT2 V-8 engine’s stop/start functionality
- Standard Brembo Carbon Ceramic brake system for optimal braking performance
- Standard Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 with three distinct suspension settings
- Staggered 20- and 21-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires are available with an optional performance package
- Low, wide stance with crafted body styling that is 3.6 inches wider overall than Stingray
- Visceral sound experience that embodies the car’s dominating presence. The electric front motor works in harmony with the LT2 engine to create an invigorating sound
- Enhanced roster of driver assistance technologies (shared with all 2024 Corvette models), including Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking.
In addition the hardware, there’s a lot of software involved, too. “The amount of electric assist is tailored within each of the Corvette E-Ray’s six driver-selectable modes,” reads the official GM copy. “Tour, Sport, Track, Weather, My Mode and Z-Mode. Drivers can also select the Charge+ feature which maximizes the battery’s state of charge.”
GM says the new Corvette E-Ray will go on sale later this year with a starting price of $104,295 for the 1LZ coupe and $111,295 for the 1LZ convertible. Production will continue to take place at the Corvette’s historic Bowling Green Assembly facility in Kentucky.
2023 Corvette E-Ray Photo Gallery
SOURCE | IMAGES: GM.
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