2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Revealed With Over 1,000 Horsepower

Alex Harrington | Jul 26, 2024

Chevrolet

In a grand unveiling, Chevrolet has introduced the 2025 Corvette ZR1, aptly nicknamed the "King of the Hill." This latest iteration not only continues the storied legacy of the Corvette lineup but also sets new benchmarks in power and performance. Slated for production at the General Motors’ Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky, the ZR1 will be available in both coupe and convertible models, with pricing and availability details expected to be announced as production commences in 2025.

Under the hood, the ZR1 features a formidable LT7 Twin-Turbocharged 5.5L DOHC VVT DI flat-plane crank V8 engine, boasting an impressive 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm. This engine pairs with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, engineered with specific enhancements to accommodate the increased output. Performance-wise, Chevrolet estimates a top speed of over 215 mph, and acceleration capabilities that allow it to complete a quarter mile in under 10 seconds.

Chevrolet

The ZR1's engine is not just about raw power; it incorporates advanced technologies including unique head castings, optimized valve train timing, a new intake system, and specially designed twin mono-scroll turbochargers. These features are complemented by dual, ported shroud ball bearing turbochargers and intelligent anti-lag calibration, pushing the boundaries of engineering excellence.

Aerodynamics and handling have also been meticulously crafted to match the engine's prowess. The carbon fiber aero package on the ZR1 generates more than 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed. Chevrolet offers a standard chassis with lower drag and a high-downforce ZTK performance package, which includes a rear wing and front dive planes for enhanced track performance.

Design-wise, the ZR1 pays homage to its heritage with a split rear window — a nod to the C2-generation Corvette. The vehicle’s interior is marked by exclusive ZR1 badging, new stitching patterns, and a turbocharged-specific boost gauge. Customization options abound, allowing owners to personalize everything from exterior and interior colors to wheel designs.

Chevrolet

Phil Zak, executive design director, remarked on the iconic design choice:

“We didn’t approach this decision lightly, we know this is a beloved element from Corvette’s history. Not only does this element provide function, but we were able to integrate passionate design into the form and do it in a way that paid homage to Corvette’s history. ZR1 felt like the right time to bring the split-window back.”

Echoing the sentiment of continuous innovation, Scott Bell, Vice President, Chevrolet, stated:

“The team that revolutionized Corvette with a mid-engine architecture took on another challenge: take ZR1 to the next level. Corvette ZR1 is about pushing the envelope with raw power and cutting-edge innovation. From Stingray, to Z06, E-Ray, and now ZR1, the Corvette family continues to elevate with each new iteration — and challenge the best in the world.”

Chevrolet

Tadge Juechter, Executive Chief Engineer for Corvette, also highlighted the breakthroughs made during the development of the ZR1, saying:

“We went into the ZR1 program with lofty goals, but even our first development tests on-track showed the teams were already exceeding them. As we worked to develop this car, we continued to leap past expectations, and we knew we had a special Corvette on our hands.”

As Chevrolet gears up for this exciting chapter with the 2025 Corvette ZR1, fans and automotive enthusiasts are poised to witness a new pinnacle of performance that not only honors its rich heritage but also propels it into a future where innovation knows no bounds.