New Hybrid Electric Corvette E-Ray Produces 655 Horsepower With AWD
The new Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray isn’t another naturally aspirated V8 weekend toy or supercharged supercar like the Stingray and Z06. Instead, it’s an evolutionary step in the illustrious lifespan of America’s sweetheart performance car, the Corvette. However, just because the new Corvette E-Ray can run on electric drive for short distances doesn’t mean owners will have to compromise. In fact, the new hybrid electric Corvette will produce 655 horsepower courtesy of a V8 and a front-mounted electric motor.
The new hybrid electric Corvette E-Ray has an LT2 V8 as well as an electric motor
Instead of relying on its LT2 eight-cylinder engine by itself like the C8 Stingray, the E-Ray packs an electric motor at the front wheels. Chevrolet says it engineered the electric motor application to maximize “frunk” storage space rather than go with a dual-motor front end like rumors previously suggested.
Moreover, the electric motor in the E-Ray drives the front wheels in tandem with the V8-driven rear wheels. As a result, the new hybrid Corvette is the first production all-wheel drive (AWD) Corvette ever. However, the eAWD grip is more than just a helpful feature to tackle slick roads; it allows for serious speed.
According to Chevrolet, the new Corvette E-Ray will hit 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds on its way to a quarter-mile run in just 10.5 seconds. Furthermore, the new ‘Vette packs a 1.9 kWh lithium-ion battery between its LT2 V8 and electric motor that can power the car for short distances without the gas engine. Better yet, the battery architecture is self-charging, so it gains charge as you drive.
How much horsepower does the electric Corvette have?
The new hybrid electric Corvette E-Ray produces a combined 655 horsepower from its LT2 V8 and front-mounted electric motor. The electric motor produces about 160 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque by itself, adding much-needed traction to the Corvette’s platform.
If you look further back in the car, the mid-engine Corvette uses a familiar LT2 V8. The naturally aspirated 6.2L eight-cylinder mill produces 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque without the assistance of the electric motor up front. Altogether the E-Ray produces a tire-shredding 655 horsepower and 595 lb-ft of torque with its hybrid application. That’s about 55 horsepower and over 100 lb-ft of torque more than a 2022 Acura NSX Type S.
Is Corvette going to go electric?
In addition to the new hybrid E-Ray, Chevrolet will produce a fully-electric Corvette in the future. According to Car and Driver, the General Motors automaker will likely add a Corvette EV to the mix in 2025.
Moreover, if the new hybrid electric Corvette E-Ray is any indication of how fast the upcoming EV will be, the electric ‘Vette is an exciting prospect.
How much will the hybrid Corvette cost?
The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette 1LZ starts at around $104,295 and $111,295 for the hardtop convertible model. Further, the 2LZ will start at $108,400, and the range-topping 3LZ will demand about $113,850. Each trim will offer a convertible option for an additional $7,000.
