General Motors China had a unique display at the 2018 China International Import Expo that promoted its vision for a future with zero vehicle crashes, zero fossil fuel emissions and zero road congestion.
Confusingly, however, the display featured a Chevrolet Corvette C7.R. The Corvette C7.R, if you didn’t already know, is the racing version of the C7 Corvette and as such, it features a quite a large V8 engine. Not really in line with the zero emissions future, then, but we love the C7.R, so good on you, GM China.
Besides, the 5.5-liter V8 Corvette was joined on stage by several GM products that do a great job of promoting the company’s vision for a better future. The Chevrolet Bolt EV was present, along with the steering wheel-less Cruise AV prototype and other displays pertaining to GM’s research into V2X technology.
“The 2018 China International Import Expo is an exciting opportunity for GM to introduce our safer, better and more sustainable transportation solutions for China,” said GM China vice president Matt Tsien said in a statement. “GM looks forward to turning our vision into reality to benefit consumers in China and around the globe for generations to come.”
The Corvette C7.R recently appeared in the rainy and dark WEC 6 Hours of Shanghai at the Shanghai International Circuit. That car, which finished 8th in class in the race, featured a special livery inspired by Chevy’s ‘Redline’ limited edition vehicles and was intended to promote the launch the Redline in the Chinese domestic market.
Corvette Racing will field the Corvette C7.R for one final season in 2019 before switching over to the mid-engine C8 platform. In addition to its usual appearances in IMSA and at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Corvette squad may enter another WEC round – likely the 1000 Miles of Sebring.
Comment
Re: “steering wheel-less” vehicles. How the heck are these things moved onto/off of trucks or shop lifts? What happens when the battery fails? I don’t get it.