C8 Corvette “E-Ray” Coming in 2023
Everyone knew a hybrid Corvette would be coming, we just needed more details. Now we have them. Internally code-named “eAWD” the E-Ray will be coming in 2023. The “AWD” portion of the code name means it is an all-wheel-drive system. So each front wheel will have its own electric motor. The battery pack will be built into the spine of the C8 chassis.
The electric motors will be located in the Corvette’s front storage compartment also called the frunk. What is being called the “e-axle” according to Muscle Cars and Trucks, will have between 150-175 horsepower. That is combined with the LT2 V8 with 490 hp. All together you’re looking at about 650 hp from the combo.
The E-Ray won’t be an all-electric Corvette
You’ll recall that the coming of an electric Corvette from the mouth of presidential candidate Joe Biden cranked up the rumors. While there won’t be an all-electric Corvette this might have been what he let slip out. And really, the idea of an all-electric Corvette just doesn’t sit as well as an electric-assist hybrid.
There will be instances where the E-Ray will have power only from the electric motors. In those cases, you won’t hear it at all. While this setup will be more economical, don’t expect Chevy to pitch it that way. The E-Ray will be marketed like other electrified exotic cars. Improvements in lap times, in the quarter-mile, and all-around performance will be the messaging. Yes, the batteries and rest of the system will add weight, but it is mostly down low in the chassis.
Besides the differences in chassis, the E-Ray will also use the Z06 widebody, wheels, and other components unique to that model. The Z06 will be out later next year as a 2022 model. But there will be differences between the two models.
The E-Ray will be powered by the same 6.2-liter V8 as the Stingray
The E-Ray will be powered by the same 6.2-liter V8 as the Stingray. But the Z06 will be powered by a 5.5-liter DOHC V8 with a flat-plane crank. The codename for the engine is LT6. It will put out about 600 hp but will be unencumbered with the added electrification weight and forced induction. The LT6 is naturally aspirated with an estimated 9,000 rpm capability. With the pound of the flat-plane crank and wound up to just under redline the sound of this thing thundering around a track should be awesome.
There will be plenty more E-Ray and Z06 rumors and info to chew on in the near future. These are two exciting additions to the mid-engine Corvette lineup that we can’t wait to report further about.
