The Z06 is far from the only exciting new C8 Chevrolet Corvette model in the works as for the first time in its history, the ‘Vette will be offered with a hybrid powertrain.
This model is currently known as the Corvette E-Ray and according to a new report from Muscle Cars & Trucks, it will be positioned and marketed more as a grand tourer than other C8 variants. However, that doesn’t mean the E-Ray will be slow. Quite the opposite, in fact.
Like the regular Corvette Stingray, the E-Ray will feature a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated LT2 V8. However, this engine will be supplemented by a small battery pack and electric motors, helping it to pump out roughly 650 hp. That will be slightly more than the C8 Z06 with its 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8.
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The E-Ray’s battery pack will run through the spine of the chassis. Muscle Cars & Trucks reports that it will include a fully electric front axle and should allow for low-speed all-electric driving at speeds of up to 35 mph while providing all-wheel drive as well. Coupled to the hybrid powertrain will be the familiar Tremec eight-speed dual-clutch automatic found in other Corvette models.
The addition of all-wheel drive and the instant torque of the electric motor should allow it to sprint to 60 mph (96 km/h) in around 2 seconds. One aspect of the C8 that remains a mystery is whether or not it will be a plug-in hybrid or a conventional hybrid.
A handful of Corvette E-Ray prototypes have already been spied in the midst of developing, leading to suggestions that Chevrolet will be ready to launch the car in 2023, the same year that the Corvette celebrates its 70th anniversary.
