A new series of spy images have been making the rounds lately showing off a gray C8 Corvette undergoing testing on public roads in Michigan. While other auto publications are touting this prototype model as the upcoming C8 Corvette E-Ray, we’re here to tell you that it is actually the 2023 Corvette Z06.
New spy photos
Corvette Z06 with outboard exhaust
Of course, there are a few details that other publications are pointing to as an indication that this is the E-Ray, including a quartet of corner-mounted exhaust tips, which are similar to those seen in recently leaked images of the C8 Corvette E-Ray visualizer. However, in reality, the outboard exhaust treatment is the configuration used by C8 Corvette Z06 models destined for the foreign markets, per previous GM Authority coverage.
Also notable are the body-color trim bits, which are once again misleading given these components were also seen in the C8 Corvette E-Ray visualizer images that leaked earlier this month. However, as it just so happens, the C8 Corvette Z06 will soon be available with new body-color exterior accents, so stay tuned for more information on that development as well.
Underneath a thick layer of Michigan road grime, this 2023 Corvette Z06 prototype is covered in Hypersonic Gray Metallic paint, which is tagged with paint code GA7. We also see a set of Carbon Flash-painted nacelles and roof (RPO code D84), a $1,295 option.
As for the bits we can’t see, the 2023 Corvette Z06 features the naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 LT6 gasoline engine, which is rated at 670 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, spinning up to a 8,600-rpm redline. Output is sent rearwards through a revised GM eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that was co-developed with Tremec, while the GM Y2 platform provides the bones. Production of the C8 Corvette takes place exclusively at the GM Bowling Green plant in Kentucky.
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Comments
Non z07 kit looks so much cleaner without that stu pid fu gly aero kit and high rice spoiler.
Also has a higher top speed and quicker high speed acceleration.
That’s why it’s offered as a package. The Z07 package provides serious go /stop equipment for those who enjoy tracking their cars. The wing is not for show like on many vehicles , it produces downforce to make the car more capable on a racetrack. The carbon ceramic brakes stop the car much faster and more consistently from speed.
I hope the production of the 2023 is better than 2022 Corvettes. It will most likely 2024 before all 2022 orders are built and delivered!!!
None to buy and price gouging good luck even getting one more of a look at GM piece I think they build some cars for attention and not serious production
How can it be?
Like the rear spoiler MUCH better!!!!!!!
I wonder what color that is. Is that the existing Hypersonic Gray, or the new Sea Wolf Gray that was leaked, or something else.
I in my opinion think this Corvette doesn’t look anything like a Corvette or even a Chevy.I love Chevrolet the small block 350 is one of the best engines ever made. But this vehicle looks like euro garbage.Doesnt look American to .e and I hate it. This is just my opinion I know no one asked but I am giving it anyway
Of course if it’s a Z06 testing it’s not an E-RAY
These articles can say whatever they want, but video with sound is the only way to know what it really is…
It is called change David. Without it the CORVETTE would be White a two speed Powerglide and a Blueflame six.
It’s an E-Ray. Note the front driver’s side heat exchanger area where there’s an extra heat exchanger with vertically oriented fins that takes up about half of the opening. This heat exchanger isn’t present on the Z06.