2026 Corvette ZR1X: 1,250-hp AWD Hypercar Redefines Performance
Chevrolet unveils the 2026 Corvette ZR1X, an electrified, all-wheel-drive hypercar that crowns the eighth-generation Corvette range. It’s a 1,250 bhp powertrain that blends the LT7 twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8 with a compact 186 bhp front-axle motor, creating the most advanced and powerful Chevrolet Corvette ever.
The LT7 produces 1,064 bhp and 828 lb-ft of torque, sending it to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Meanwhile, the electric motor maximises traction up to 160 mph. Chevrolet estimates a 0–60 mph time of under two seconds and a quarter-mile sprint of below nine seconds, with a trap speed of 150 mph, setting new benchmarks for an American hypercar.
“From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with ZR1X in mind,” said General Motors senior vice-president Ken Morris. “This is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history, supporting the widest range of American sports cars and delivering world-class performance at every level.”
Chevrolet hand-builds every flat-plane-crank Gemini LT7, equipping it with dual 76 mm turbochargers, an innovative “maniturbo” exhaust that positions the turbos close to the exhaust valves, and dynamic anti-lag software that keeps the turbines spinning off-throttle for instant boost.
The engineering team couples this V8 fury to the electrified eAWD set-up first proven in the 2024 E-Ray. Regenerative braking alone charges the 1.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, which is located low in the chassis spine and now offers higher usable energy for more extended periods. The battery continuously cycles between rapid power delivery and recharging, feeding the strengthened front drive unit for seamless, plug-free performance.
The front motor supplies 186 bhp and 145 lb-ft on demand, enhancing corner-exit grip and straight-line thrust. Its compact housing mirrors the E-Ray’s, yet upgraded internals and energy management release an extra 26 bhp and 20 lb-ft, directly improving quarter-mile times and on-track balance.
Revised eAWD chassis controls analyse driver inputs and road conditions to distribute torque instantaneously between axles, maintaining responsiveness and stability. PTM Pro, new for 2026, lets skilled drivers turn off traction and stability aids while preserving regenerative brake torque vectoring, front-axle pre-control for unwavering corner exits, and a configurable launch control for repeatable, blistering starts.
Drivers choose bespoke energy strategies: Endurance mode, activated by the Charge+ button, optimises battery management for consistent laps over a full fuel load; Qualifying mode unleashes maximum combined power for the ultimate hot lap; and Push-to-Pass delivers a brief surge of full electric and combustion output for decisive overtakes.
To rein in this pace, Chevrolet equips the clean-sheet J59 with the standard braking package. Alcon ten-piston front and six-piston rear callipers clamp 16.5-inch carbon-ceramic rotors—the largest ever on a Corvette. “This is the most resilient production car braking system we’ve tested within GM,” engineers report, having recorded 1.9 g deceleration from 180 to 120 mph during development.
Magnetic Ride Control adapts damping in milliseconds to mode, driver input and surface. The standard chassis, paired with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, delivers supple grand touring comfort and formidable track ability. The optional ZTK Performance Package stiffens the springs and pairs with Michelin Pilot Cup 2R rubber for ultimate grip.
Customers seeking maximum downforce can add the Carbon Aero package, which combines dive planes, underbody strakes, a bonnet gurney lip, and a high rear wing that generates up to 1,200 lb (approximately 544 kg) of downforce at top speed; the package comes factory-fitted with ZTK specification.
Chevrolet offers the 2026 Corvette ZR1X as a coupé or hard-top convertible, each benefiting from the newly unveiled triple-screen cockpit, upgraded materials and a Performance App that streams live vehicle data. Every ZR1X rolls from the Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky, and master engine builders craft each LT7 at the neighbouring Performance Build Centre. Chevrolet will announce pricing and on-sale dates closer to the production date.
