GM just dropped a #OneLikeNone teaser ahead of the hybrid, all-wheel-drive Corvette E-Ray debut on January 17! (Stealth Mode???)
Chevrolet’s most capable Corvette generation — the C8 — is about to add a new brother to its grown stable. The long-rumored E-ray debut will take place on January 17. And the E-ray will be the first hybrid and first all-wheel-drive (factory) Corvette. Built on the C8 platform, rumors point to a Corvette that houses a 500+ hp pushrod LT2 V8 from the Stingray in the Z06 widebody with an electric front-wheel-drive system for what many presume will be about 600 total system horsepower.
Again, just to clarify because lots of folks seem confused. This is NOT an all-electric Corvette.
Nor is it going to be a Prius. In supercars, which the Corvette has very much become, engineers use hybrid systems to enhance performance. The E-ray will be a V8-powered monster where additional front-mounted e-motors provide INSTANT extra torque. In other words, we can expect the E-ray to launch harder than any Corvette in history. Perhaps even quicker to 60 than the track-focused Z06. The only challenge, of course, will be weight, as adding extra drive components and batteries will likely make the E-ray the heaviest Corvette of all time.
Details From the E-ray Teaser Video (Stealth Mode)
Taking a look at GM’s teaser video. In addition to the January 17, 2023 debut date, here’s what we noticed —
The engine growl of a classic GM V8 (this is the LT2, not the flat-plane LT6 from the Z06)
Carbon ceramic brakes (naturally, these will be optional)
Unlike the Z06, the molding and trim pieces will be body-colored (or at least available this way)
GM is really playing up the all-wheel-drive system with snow & ice rally-style driving
STEALTH MODE! It appears the E-ray will have an all-electric driving mode, for quiet, economical cruising. Can’t wait to hear about the range (is this a plug-in or standard hybrid system???).
One Like None. The first hybrid and first all-wheel-drive Corvette in history.
Quick Impressions
Personally speaking, I’m open to anything the Corvette engineering team cooks up. These folks have proven themselves with generations of incredible sports cars. The C8 Stingray was the bargain of the decade when it launched. The Z06 is a supercar hunter. And this E-ray looks to be a thrilling combination of new technology, power, sound, and styling. This could be the goldilocks Corvette for those who want more than a Stingray, but not at the mid-to-high six-figure costs of the Z06.
Also, I’ve now driven a few trucks with hybrid systems added to traditional gasoline-powered drivetrains. The results are amazing, to be honest. You get all the convenience of being able to tank up quickly at a gas station along a boatload of extra power and, with your foot out of it, more economy as well. It’s win-win, in my experience.
What do you think? Are you excited about the E-ray debut? Where do you think pricing will land? Is there still a chance that this will be called the Grand Sport? Let us know HERE in the forums!
Screenshots: General Motors
Keyword: Corvette E-Ray to Debut Next Week (Video!)