Powered by a 6.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 at the front axle and a 160 hp electric motor at the front wheels, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette is capable of a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in just 2.5 seconds and run down the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds at 130 mph (209 km/h).
These are all very impressive figures, achieved largely thanks to the use of all-wheel drive. However, what if you’re looking to show off to your friends and want to perform a smoky burnout? Surely the all-wheel drive system makes it impossible to violently spin up the rear wheels? Wrong.
Read: 2024 Corvette E-Ray AWD Hybrid Is The Quickest ‘Vette Ever, Hits 60 In 2.5 Seconds
While recently speaking with Corvette chief engineer Josh Holder, Motor Trend discovered the Corvette E-Ray has what is effectively a secret burnout mode. First, drivers must disable the traction and stability control systems and hold both steering wheel shift paddles. With moderate pressure applied to the brake and the accelerator pushed to the floor, the V8 will stabilize at around 5,000 rpm. At this point, you can release both paddles, maintain brake pressure, and the rear wheels will start to spin.
Motor Trend notes that the electric motor won’t send any power to the front wheels if the brake pedal remains pressed. While it sounds simple, owners will have to get the brake pressure just right as the E-Ray will either swiftly accelerate off the line with too little brake pressure or the transmission controller will disconnect the eight-speed dual-clutch from the V8 if there’s too much brake pressure. One thing the E-Ray Hybrid cannot do is a burnout at a complete standstill as it needs to be slowly creeping forward.
