Chevrolet Unveils Corvette ZR1X: An American Hypercar with 1,251hp and Sub-2 Second 0-100km/h Sprint
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X is an all-new American hypercar powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering a combined output of 1,251 horsepower. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in under two seconds.
Scheduled for release in 2026, the ZR1X pairs a 5.5-litre flat-plane crank twin-turbo V8—borrowed from the ZR1—with a front-mounted electric motor similar to that in the Corvette E-Ray. This combination makes the ZR1X the first Corvette ZR1 to feature all-wheel drive (AWD). The hand-assembled V8 produces 1,063hp at 7,000rpm and 1,123Nm of torque at 6,000rpm, while the electric motor adds another 186hp and 197Nm. The total output is more than 200hp higher than the standard ZR1. The engine is mounted midship and mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. For reference, the previous ZR1 equipped with the ZTK Performance Package could sprint from 0–100 km/h in 2.3 seconds (or 2.5 seconds without the package), making the ZR1X even quicker.
The ZR1X’s V8 was developed alongside the naturally aspirated flat-plane crank engines used in the Z06 and Z06 GT3.R race cars. The twin 76mm turbochargers are positioned as close to the exhaust valves as possible to reduce boost lag and improve throttle response. A dynamic anti-lag system keeps the turbos spooled even during throttle lift-off, ensuring instant power delivery when reapplying throttle. A 1.9kWh battery—similar to the E-Ray’s—is centrally mounted within the chassis but now offers improved usable energy capacity for enhanced performance during extended track driving. The front electric motor, while similar in size and shape to the E-Ray's, has been reinforced to produce an additional 25hp and 27Nm. It can deliver power up to speeds of 258 km/h before disengaging. The eAWD control system from the E-Ray has been upgraded in the ZR1X to handle the higher power and optimize torque distribution for track conditions.
Charge+ mode enables Endurance mode for longer stints on track, while Qualifying and Push-to-Pass modes provide maximum power on demand. A new PTM Pro mode deactivates traction and stability control but retains launch control, regenerative brake torque vectoring, and Front Axle Pre-Control—an active system that modulates inside front brake pressure to maximize traction on corner exit.
The ZR1X comes standard with the J59 braking system, previously optional on the ZR1. It features Alcon 10-piston front and 6-piston rear calipers, paired with 420mm carbon-ceramic brake rotors front and rear. Magnetic Ride Control is also standard, along with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. Opting for the ZTK Performance Package upgrades to Michelin Pilot Cup 2R tires. An available Carbon Aero package adds front dive planes, underbody strakes, a hood gurney lip, and a large rear wing—collectively providing up to 544kg of downforce.
Like other models in the C8 Corvette lineup, the ZR1X will be offered in both coupe and convertible body styles. Inside, it features a redesigned interior with a 12.7-inch central infotainment touchscreen, a 6.6-inch secondary display, a revised center console, and repositioned switchgear.
Source : Carscoops
