The configurator for the Corvette ZR1 went live earlier this month, but deliveries likely won’t begin until around late Q2 or early Q3 of 2025. That means the all-new 2025 Corvette ZR1 is technically still in its prototype phase, even though it was unveiled last summer. Although they don’t need camouflage anymore, GM is still testing out the new ZR1 on public roads, and a gaggle of them was recently spotted in a Buc-ee’s parking lot.
The Buc-ee’s in question is outside of Knoxville, Tennessee, near the famous Tail of the Dragon, officially called US 129, spanning the North Carolina – Tennessee state line. It’s unclear how many ZR1s were part of this group, but the photos indicate it’s no fewer than eight. They’re also in various configurations.
Judging by the massive rear wing, most of the cars photographed are equipped with the Carbon Fiber Aero Package (RPO TOM), which may or may not be accompanied by the ZTK Performance Package (ZTK). Notably, a Riptide Blue Metallic (GJV) one behind the ZTK-equipped Competition Yellow Tintcoat Metallic (GBK) model with a Buc-ee’s bag hanging off of its spoiler does not have the ZTK package.
One of these pre-production models in a particularly stylish spec is an Arctic White (G8G) model with the aero package and Edge Blue Full Length Dual Racing Stripes (DUW). It’s a nice modern take on the classic blue-and-white American racecar motif. The one other paint option represented in this group is Sebring Orange Tintcoat (G26), which looks terrific with the Carbon Flash-painted forged aluminum wheels (SOG).
The 2025 Corvette ZR1 will be available in two trims, including 1LZ and 3LZ, as well as two body styles, including a Coupe and a Hardtop Convertible. Pricing starts at $174,995 for the 1LZ Coupe and ranges up to $195,995 for the 3LZ Convertible. Check out our previous coverage for more 2025 Corvette ZR1 pricing information.
All C8 ZR1 variants are motivated by the twin-turbocharged 5.5L V8 LT7 gasoline engine, which churns out 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 pound-feet of torque at 6,000 rpm. Like all C8-generation Corvettes, the ZR1 rides on the GM Y2 platform and will be built at the GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky.
Comment
Beautiful ZR-1 Corvettes that are probably being prepared for the media presentation.
As YOU know, the media (reporters) are not given new cars but “media cars” for test drives. For this purpose, the cars are usually driven 2000mls and the quality is tested by the manufacturer. After the OEM has carried out the tests, the cars are put into the “media pool”.
Well, I think that’s the case, because here in Germany I recently saw a lot of BMW M5s that were “broken in” by BMW people. A few weeks later, the BMW M5 with “media people” was driving very quickly on the streets of Bavaria-Germany…