While the C8 Corvette ZR1 may be the latest go-faster machine to wear the iconic crossed-flags badge, it won’t be the last word when it comes to new mid-engine Corvette variants. Indeed, there’s another, even-faster C8 on the horizon, namely the C8 Corvette Zora, set to drop in with a new hybrid powertrain and all-wheel grip to take the throne at the top of the eighth-generation Corvette lineup. Now, several C8 Corvette Zora prototypes have been spotted in Colorado undergoing testing.
Photos and video of the C8 Corvette Zora prototypes were posted online by the Brink of Speed YouTube channel, showing the camouflaged test vehicles in a parking structure and driving around local public roads. It’s likely the prototypes were in Colorado undergoing high-altitude testing.
As the video host points out, the prototypes were spotted alongside production units of the new C8 ZR1, and interestingly, the production-spec ZR1 units and Zora prototypes shared quite a few features. Among them are the wheels and aero elements, as well as large side air intakes. To note, the production-spec Zora will almost definitely offer a unique set of wheel designs.
That all said, the camo-clad prototypes also show a few features that set them apart from the ZR1, including heat exchangers mounted behind in the front fascia incorporating vertical fins – an item previously spotted on the hybrid-powered C8 Corvette E-Ray, and evidence that the upcoming Zora will also include hybrid powertrain tech similar to that of the E-Ray. The prototypes also revealed an electrified plug around the rear end, leading back to the hybrid powertrain.
These Zora prototypes also appear to include unique side fins in the doors and a camouflaged element just ahead of the side intakes. Also notable is excessive camouflage along the side skirts and body panel joints. Finally, the prototypes seen here are all seem to be examples of the Coupe body style.
Although we didn’t get a peek under the rear hatch, the new C8 Corvette Zora is expected to cradle the same twin-turbocharged 5.5L V8 LT7 gasoline engine as the new C8 ZR1, as well as the same electric components as the C8 E-Ray, with the former driving the rear wheels and the latter driving the front wheels. The combination of these two power sources could yield a mind-bending 1,224 horsepower.
Check out the full spy video below:
Comments
Interesting article because you now write that the ZORA is the absolute top Corvette C8 model, but I always expected that. Total power is probably a really good 1500 HP!!!
If these “C8 ZR1 Zora prototypes” are powered by e-Ray Power, then YOU shouldn’t assume that they are from the “C8 e-Ray Power” + ZR1 Power.
I think that GM is installing even more “e-Ray Power” in the C8 ZR1 Zora, as they did with the C8 ZR1, and since it is now a C8 ZR1 Zora PHEV with a charging plug, the battery in the tunnel will be larger, more modern and much more powerful.
That’s why the C8 R&D team is also driving around in the mountains so that the “load” can be assessed. Remember that the e-Ray with big batteries probably has a lot of extra weight.
Which competitors will be mentioned for the C8 ZR1 Zora?
I don’t know of any because you won’t find any competitors for around $300,000.
McLaren and Ferrari are asking for an insane $2-4 million for a lesser sports car, but the customers probably have illegal MONEY?
I am sure it will be pretty Bad A** but man why can’t GM build one with an Active Rear Wing
Active Rear Wing most likely on the C9…
Most likely on the C9…
Why can’t GM catch up with Z06 demand ?