The 2020 Corvette Convertible is here, and it’s packing loads of muscle-bound goodness in a tasty mid-engine package. We’ve been busy picking through all the features on offer, and have learned that the convertible’s Rear Camera Mirror stops working after the roof is lowered.
For those who may be unaware, the GM Rear Camera Mirror feature is a technology that replaces the standard rear-view mirror with a high-res video feed from a wide-angle camera pointing behind the vehicle. This not only provides a better view of what’s going on aft of the vehicle with less obstruction, but it does so without taking up real estate on the primary infotainment screen, instead providing the driver with a clear rear view in a more convenient location higher in the cabin.
Rear Camera Mirror camera on 2020 Corvette Convertible prototype
On the 2020 Corvette Convertible, the camera for the Rear Camera Mirror is located on the roof panel. With the roof up, the system works as intended, providing a wide-angle view behind the Vette. However, when the roof is lowered into the rear storage compartment, the camera goes with it, obstructing its view in the process.
Thus, with the 2020 Corvette Convertible roof lowered, drivers must instead rely on the standard rear view mirror to see behind the vehicle.
For reference, the Rear Camera Mirror feature comes with two separate modes, as toggled by a tab on the mirror. Flipping it switches between the camera feed and a traditional electrochromatic rearview mirror.
Rear Camera Mirror feature on the Cadillac CT6
With the new mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette mounting the naturally aspirated 6.2L LT2 V8 engine just behind the cabin, it makes sense to offer enhanced visibility via the Rear Camera Mirror. However, with the switch to a standard reflective mirror with the top down, we’d venture that rear visibility is still pretty decent, given the roof isn’t there to obstruct the view.
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Comments
This car is looking fabulous and excellent. This post is discussing in an outstanding way. I like your way yo discussed your valid points and facts about this. I really said you share more and more articles.
“And now my friend, the first-a rule of Italian driving….What’s-a behind me is not important.”
– Franco
Makes perfect sense. Do not need the camera system when the Top is Down.
Thanks Cpt Obvious for the obvious non-story about a roof camera not working when the roof is no longer in place. Shocking, I know! What’s next? Engines don’t run when they are shut off? Oh the horror!
Anyone who would even think the rear view camera would work when the roof is stored has problems.
Infotainment. A new word of the age that legitimized video type gaming in the cockpit. A sad de-evolution in motoring IMHO. Too much available information instead of gauges that can transmit that information. When BMW showed up with their iDrive it was panned by many. Whatever has evolved since is a rabbit hole of gadgets and gizmos but not necessarily helpful information. Back up cameras have merit at times but a camera feed as a rear view device?
I guess I’m just too old fashioned.
The camera has been useful in my Bolt at times when the rear of the car is filled to the brim with stuff. I will admit it is nice to still have a functional way of looking behind the car in this situation that is not much different than when I just use the mirror. I wasn’t so sure about it at first either.
Live to dream.. a 2020 Chevrolet C8 Corvette convertible with a Hennessey Performance HPE 1200 kit making 1,200 hp.
My only beef is that I can’t get the rear camera mirror on a 1LT car.
The rear view camera on my C7 convert IS VERY helpful in backing up in tight places even with the top down. I,ll miss this feature when I get my C8.
Robert- the rear camera (backup camera) will continue to work, just as it does on your C7 (albeit in a higher resolution). What this article refers to is the rear camera mirror, which is a separate system from the back-up camera you’re referring to.
More info on the rear camera mirror:
http://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/general-motors-technology/gm-safety-technology/gm-active-safety-technology/gm-rear-camera-mirror/
The car was looking fabulous. The features are outstanding.
why not allow the rear backup camera to provide a rear view when driving with the top down as an option on the information display. My Tesla Model X P100D did this while driving and it provided valuable additional rear visibility. The police in Miami rarely enforce the speed limit on the freeways. The added vision helps to see erratic drivers approaching and increases safety.
In addition to Randy’s comment – I want the ability to add this feature to any Corvette. Most of the options on a 2LT car do nothing for me, so paying an extra $7,300 for the mirror just doesn’t make sense. I would gladly pay whatever it would cost to have the mirror as an option for a 1LT car.