Since the C8 Corvette debuted in 2020 it has been almost universally praised. But there is one thing that many don’t like until they drive it, and that is the center console. Known as the “buttress” it’s the sweeping console with all of those buttons. Some call it “the wall of switches.” Whatever you want to call it the Corvette console has been a love-it-or-hate-it feature.

Michael Simcoe, who is head of design for GM, hates the buttress

Now comes word that one of those unhappy with the buttress is in a position to do something about it. Michael Simcoe, who is head of design for GM, hates the buttress. In that job since 2016, he got it too late to change anything on the Corvette. Head of design or not once a design is locked in there’s little one can do to make a change.

But a refresh is supposed to be coming in 2023. That is when the expected elimination of the buttress console is slated to commence. According to MotorTrend, Simcoe had to wait to make any changes on the C8 Corvette until now for the 2023 model year. 

With GM’s push for bringing out 30 new EVs by 2030, the C8 refresh was pushed back a bit. But it looks like whether the facelift makes it in 2023 or not the interior, and especially the buttress, will be gone by then. It makes sense to change-up the buttress as it holds 14 buttons and three switches. It’s like a wall of buttons. 

Maybe GM could find a way to simplify a bank of that many buttons and switches

You would hope GM could find a way to simplify a bank of that many buttons and switches. There’s got to be a more intuitive solution that would make the whole interior more design-friendly. With the elimination of the buttress, we would expect that a more conventional console and infotainment screen would be designed. With all of the manufacturers racing to have the biggest screens this is Chevy’s chance to enlarge it. 

Being enveloped in plastic and suede can be a bit stifling, whether you’re driving or a passenger. Bringing the buttress console down a bit will visually open up those two spaces. Doing so would also give the impression of a larger interior because you don’t have this huge partition breaking up the cockpit. 

Besides any refresh, the mid-engine Corvette has a ton of new models planned over the coming years. There is the Z06, then the more radical ZR1, and a PHEV and fully electric Corvette, too. Oh, and the “Zora” which should be the king of the hill. So in spite of GM being consumed with EVs, there are enough new Corvettes on the horizon for any type of enthusiast to love.