Production Car and Racing Machine Developed in Parallel

The Chevrolet "Corvette Z06" will go on sale in Japan starting April 2014.7th Generation CorvetteThis is the production high-performance version of the 7th generation Corvette. It is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 supercharged aluminum engine with a maximum output of 625 PS, and features weight reduction through the use of a carbon fiber hood and a removable carbon fiber roof. The transmission is either a new 7-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. Its aggressive body design easily differentiates it from other models in the lineup.


The "Corvette C7.R" uses engineering and parts from the Corvette Z06, such as its chassis structure, engine technology, and aerodynamics. Development started simultaneously, allowing for an unprecedented level of technology sharing. While many racing machines based on production cars have appeared before, simultaneous parallel development with the production car is rare, and Chevrolet highlights this to introduce the Corvette as the closest existence between a racing machine and a mass-produced vehicle.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06

Chevrolet Corvette Z06

The frames for the Corvette Z06 and Corvette C7.R are manufactured at GM's Bowling Green plant in Kentucky, USA. With state-of-the-art production systems, including laser welding and GM's patented aluminum spot welding process, the chassis of the Corvette C7.R has been strengthened by 40 percent compared to the previous model, the "Corvette C6.R."


However, due to racing regulations, the C7.R's engine is a 5.5-liter small-block V8, and its air intake is also restricted, making it different from the production "Z06." This is the only part carried over from the "C6.R."

The Reason It's Called America's Representative Sports Car

GM's works team, "Corvette Racing," plans to enter two C7.Rs in the "52nd Rolex 24" race held at Daytona International Speedway in Florida, USA, on January 25-26, marking the C7.R's debut. Starting this season, the popular North American "American Le Mans Series" and "GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series" will merge into the new "TUDOR United SportsCar Championship" series. The "52nd Rolex 24" race is the commemorative opening race for this new series.


In addition to competing in all 11 races of this North American series, the Corvette C7.R is also scheduled to participate in the traditional 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France in June. Notably, Chevrolet Corvettes have achieved seven class victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the past, and expectations are high for the new C7.R's performance.

Chevrolet Corvette C7.R

Chevrolet Corvette C7.R

Since the debut of the "Corvette C5-R" as a works machine in 1999, the C5-R and C6.R have achieved 90 victories in the American Le Mans Series and won 10 Manufacturers' Championships. Last year, they secured five wins in the GT class of the American Le Mans Series, dominating the Manufacturers', Teams', and Drivers' championships for two consecutive years.


The reason Chevrolet Corvettes are called America's representative sports cars lies in this racing heritage. As such, the Z06 and its racing version, the C7.R, are positioned as important models for GM. The pride of leading American sports cars and the continuous racing activities undoubtedly enhance the appeal of the new Corvette.