Here's your first look at the first-ever Corvette hybrid way before you're supposed to see it.
Chevrolet / Corvette BloggerCorvette fans got an early holiday surprise this year. Images of the Corvette hybrid, dubbed the E-Ray, leaked online Thursday night courtesy of Chevrolet’s online configurator. They give us our first look at the car’s design and logo, and also give us an idea of what to expect under the skin.
The configurator has since been taken down, but not before users on the Mid-Engine Corvette forum and Corvette Blogger were able to take a plethora of screenshots for us all to enjoy. Judging by the renderings, the E-Ray seems to use the Z06’s wider body and fascia, albeit with body-colored trim. The “ERAY” name appears on the lower rear quarter panel and on the steering wheel, while a “Regen on Demand” button can be seen inside.
Chevy did little to deny the configurator’s legitimacy, issuing a telling statement on the leak.
“Looks like the holidays came early for a few astute Corvette fans. Stay tuned for more,” a spokesperson told Corvette Blogger.
The configurator did not reveal any of the E-Ray’s specifications, though judging by the engine bay, it’ll use a version of the push-rod LT2 V-8 found in the standard C8. It’s also unclear whether the electric motor (or motors) will power the front wheels or help the V-8 power the rear wheels, or both. As we’ve seen with cars like the NSX, 918 Spyder, and 296 GTB, many configurations are possible.
Rumors back in 2020 said the E-Ray might replace the Grand Sport in the Corvette’s lineup for the C8, playing the part of an “in-between” trim sitting above the base C8 but below the Z06. Seeing as how GM hasn’t said anything about a C8 Grand Sport, that rumor might turn out to be true. According to the configurator, the E-Ray is set to become available in summer 2023. So we won’t have to wait long to find out for sure.
Brian Silvestro Road & Track staff writer with a taste for high-mileage, rusted-out projects and amateur endurance racing.
Keyword: 2024 Corvette E-Ray Hybrid Leaks in Configurator Tool