Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray

Corvette E-Ray is an upcoming hybrid-electric variant of the mid-engine Corvette C8. The model is sometimes referred to as Corvette hybrid.

Evidence

It all started when GM Authority discovered that General Motors filed two applications to register “Corvette E-Ray” and “E-Ray” as trademarks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The automaker’s December 16^th, 2015 applications specify that the marks will be used to name goods and services in the category of “motor land vehicles, namely, automobiles”.

In addition, the fact that most super cars are adding an optional electrified or hybrid powertrain to their lineup – such as Porsche (918), BMW (i8), and Acura (NSX) – serve as a further indication that the Corvette should gain an electrified powertrain to keep up from a competitive standpoint.

Expectations

Following is what we expect from the Corvette C8 E-Ray:

A wide-body, high-performance hybrid model that will be positioned to indirectly replace the Grand Sport in the Corvette lineup. To that end, the introduction of the Corvette E-Ray means that a Corvette Grand Sport will not be part of the Corvette C8 model line.
An electrified powertrain, consisting of the atmospheric 6.2L V8 LT2 gasoline engine good for 490 horsepower that powers the 2020 Corvette Stingray mated to an electric drive unit located in the front cargo area plus four 1.94 kWh batteries located in the middle of the car. Peak output of the hybrid system is expected to be around 85 kW (115 horsepower) and 111 pound-feet of torque, with some rumors pointing to the electric motor being able to spin to 16,000 RPM. Total system power is expected to be in the vicinity of 600 horsepower, focused on improving performance rather than on efficiency.
A wide body and upgraded chassis compared to the C8 Stingray.
Wider wheel and tire combination than the Stingray, allowing the Corvette E-Ray to have a greater contact patch to the road, with 20-inch front wheels wrapped in 275/30R20 tires and 21-inch rear wheels wrapped in 345/25R21 rubber
Michelin Sport Cup 2 R tires are expected to be offered, though it’s possible that this will not be the standard tire on the E-Ray. A set of carbon fiber wheels will also be offered as part of the optional Z07 package.
Larger, more capable brakes compared to the Stingray.