It’s finally here, and this is insane: Chevrolet has unveiled the 2026 Corvette ZR1X, combining the hybrid tech of the E-Ray with the Corvette ZR1’s powertrain.
This is a full-on hypercard: It combines a twin-turbo V8 powering the rear wheels with an electric motor driving the front axle. This is the first Corvette to pair a high-output combustion engine with electrified all-wheel drive, and it’s the most powerful production model the company has made to date.
Powertrain and Performance
The ZR1X features a new 5.5 liter twin turbocharged V8, designated LT7, producing 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb ft of torque. This engine uses a flat plane crankshaft and dry sump lubrication, and is paired with an 8 speed dual clutch transmission. It was developed alongside the Z06’s naturally aspirated V8 and features dual 76 mm turbochargers, Integrated turbo manifold layout for improved response, Anti lag technology to keep boost pressure up between throttle inputs.
An electric motor mounted on the front axle contributes an additional 186 horsepower and 145 lb ft of torque. Power is distributed without a physical link between the front and rear axles. The motor is powered by a 1.9 kWh battery pack integrated into the center of the chassis, which charges via regenerative braking. Chevrolet says the ZR1X can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds and complete a quarter mile in under 9 seconds with a trap speed over 150 mph.
All Wheel Drive and Chassis Technology
The all wheel drive system is adapted from the Corvette E Ray and tuned for the significantly more powerful ZR1X. The front motor remains active up to 160 mph, aiding traction and acceleration. The battery pack is designed for repeated high output use during track sessions.
Three driving modes tailor the system for different use cases: Endurance, which prioritizes consistent power delivery over longer runs, Qualifying, which maximizes quick power bursts, and Push To Tass, for max power output.
Chevrolet’s updated PTM Pro system is included and offers track focused traction management tools, including regenerative brake torque vectoring, active brake pressure management on the front axle, and customizable launch control.
Brakes and Suspension
Braking is handled by a new setup (J59 package) with 10 piston front and 6 piston rear Alcon calipers and 16.5 inch carbon ceramic rotors, the largest ever fitted to a Corvette. The system was tested extensively and achieves up to 1.9G deceleration between 180 and 120 mph.
Suspension comes in two forms: Standard chassis for road use, and a ZTK Performance package which is stiffer and more track focused.
An optional Carbon Aero package adds aerodynamic aids, including a front splitter, underbody strakes, and a fixed rear wing that produces up to 1,200 lbs of downforce at top speed.
Pricing and availability will be announced closer to the production start.
