Mid-Engine Corvette C8 Coming In 2019, Plug-In Hybrid Version Reportedly Planned

We’ve been hearing about a mid-engine Corvette for quite some time now, but this time it looks that GM might actually make it happen.

General Motors is planning to replace the Corvette C7 with a mid-engine model in early 2019, according to Detroit News which cites multiple sources familiar with the company’s planning.

These sources revealed that the new mid-engine Corvette will eventually be the only Corvette produced, with one of them saying that the current front-engine C7 generation will continue production through 2021.

Switching to a mid-engine platform will be the most significant change in the model’s history since the Corvette’s original release in 1953. The eighth generation C8 model, codenamed ‘Emperor’, will be revealed in early 2018.

A former GM employee with knowledge of the project told the outlet: “It’s happening. Mark Reuss wants it,” referring to GM’s global product development chief. “It’s the worst-kept secret in town.”

Corvette’s aging demographic has been a concern for GM and the arrival of a mid-engine sports car could help into bringing younger buyers into the showrooms.

The next Corvette will continue using the small block V8 to keep costs down but Chevrolet will add features like an active aero agenda for better performance in and out of the track. Other reports suggest that the company plans to offer more variants than one, including an all-wheel drive, plug-in hybrid model with electric motors driving the front axle.

This version will essentially bring the new Corvette in front of cars like the Acura NSX, despite the former’s more affordable price.