The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is the fastest, most powerful Corvette ever
The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 debuts with a 1,064-hp twin-turbo V8, advanced aerodynamics, and a revived split rear window design. Share
Chevrolet has raised the bar with the new Corvette ZR1, reintroducing the “King of the Hill” with the most powerful V8 ever produced in America by a manufacturer. This supercar, available in both coupe and convertible versions, boasts iconic design features and performance metrics that rival the world’s best.
At the heart of the ZR1 is a 5.5L twin-turbocharged DOHC flat-plane crank V8 engine known as the LT7. This engine delivers 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm, marking it as the most potent factory Corvette engine ever. The ZR1 achieves a GM-estimated top speed of over 215 mph and completes the quarter mile in under 10 seconds, according to GM estimates. The car’s carbon fibre aero package generates over 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed, contributing to its incredible track performance. Additionally, the ZR1 brings back a legendary Corvette design cue: the split rear window.
“The team that revolutionized Corvette with a mid-engine architecture took on another challenge: take ZR1 to the next level,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet. “Corvette ZR1 is about pushing the envelope with raw power and cutting-edge innovation. From Stingray to Z06, E-Ray, and now ZR1, the Corvette family continues to elevate with each new iteration — and challenge the best in the world.”
Engine development for the ZR1 focused on maximizing power and capability. The LT7 engine builds on the architecture of the Z06’s LT6, adding twin turbochargers for the first time in a factory Corvette. Engineers optimized nearly every system for boosted performance, resulting in a unique 5.5L twin-turbo DOHC flat-plane crank engine that combines engineering precision with track-tested power.
The interior of the ZR1 is tailored for performance and luxury, with ZR1-specific badging, unique stitch patterns, and a boost gauge that highlights the first factory turbocharged Corvette. The cockpit also offers extensive customization options, including a new Habanero interior, blue stitching, and multiple racing stripe and brake calliper colour choices.
Design-wise, the ZR1 reintroduces the split-window style, a nod to the C2-generation Corvette, which enhances both aesthetics and function. The split window’s carbon fibre spine improves engine cooling while serving as a striking design element. The car’s lightweight carbon fibre roof and unique aluminium wheels, available in four finishes, reduce weight and lower the centre of gravity.
Key features of the LT7 engine include redesigned head castings with larger combustion chambers, an intake system tuned specifically for turbochargers, and electronically controlled wastegates. The engine also benefits from advanced cooling systems, secondary port fuel injection, and upgraded crank train components to handle the massive output. The engine’s rev-happy character remains intact while delivering over 1,000 horsepower. Supporting this power is a reinforced eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, with strengthened gears and upgraded input shafts. The transmission’s oil management and control valves have been optimized to handle the increased demands of the LT7 engine.
Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the ZR1’s performance, with carbon fibre components and a meticulously designed flow-through hood that increases front downforce while managing intercooler temperatures. The side profile ducts and fresh air intake systems also contribute to cooling key components, while the available ZTK performance package adds aggressive aero elements like a high-downforce rear wing and front dive planes for track use.
The ZR1’s chassis is engineered for speed with a sleeker body that includes a standard carbon-fibre front splitter, rocker mouldings, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. The car’s suspension includes Magnetic Ride dampers and is designed to balance track performance with on-road comfort. For those seeking maximum track capability, the ZTK package offers stiffer suspension, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres, and carbon fibre underbody strakes.
Braking performance is enhanced by a carbon ceramic brake system featuring 15.7-inch front rotors — the largest ever on a Corvette — and innovative manufacturing techniques that increase durability while reducing temperatures. The ZR1’s stopping power is unmatched, accelerating from 80 to 200 mph and back to 80 mph 22% quicker than the previous generation C7 ZR1. The ZR1 is set to enter production in 2025 at General Motors’ Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky, joining the Corvette Stingray, Z06, and E-Ray models.
