The new Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is just beginning to arrive at dealerships across the U.S., but it is already facing competition from an even more powerful version of the C8 Corvette. Long anticipated to be named Zora, this latest iteration is officially known as the ZR1X. This high-performance variant enhances the ZR1's powertrain by incorporating a hybrid system similar to that found in the E-Ray, resulting in an astonishing boost in both power and speed.
According to General Motors' senior vice president, Ken Morris, the C8's platform was engineered with the ZR1X's powertrain in mind from the very beginning. This foresight is likely why rumors about the ZR1X emerged even before the C8 made its public debut. Boasting a staggering 1,250 horsepower and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, the hybrid ZR1X accelerates to 60 mph faster than any previous roadgoing Corvette. Its quarter-mile performance promises to be just as remarkable.
While the standard ZR1 is preparing to set an official lap time at the Nürburgring, prototypes of the ZR1X have already been spotted at the iconic track, with the Ford Mustang GTD in its sights.
At the core of the ZR1X lies the same 5.5-liter LT7 V8 engine featured in the standard ZR1. This powerhouse is essentially the Z06's flat-plane-crank motor, now enhanced with twin turbochargers. All 1,064 horsepower and 828 pound-feet of torque are transmitted to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Meanwhile, an electric motor positioned at the front axle contributes an additional 186 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the E-Ray's output by 26 hp and 20 lb-ft. Chevy has emphasized that the ZR1X's motor features improved components while maintaining the same dimensions as the E-Ray's unit.
The ZR1X’s 1.9-kWh battery pack, strategically integrated into the chassis, offers greater usable energy and enhanced peak operational voltage compared to the E-Ray, further elevating its on-track performance. Notably, there is no direct mechanical connection between the V8 engine and the electric motor; the V8 powers the rear wheels, while the electric motor drives the front wheels. The electric motor will automatically disengage at speeds exceeding 160 mph, having accomplished its primary task of delivering breathtaking acceleration.
The ZR1X is engineered to launch from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds, outperforming the standard ZR1 and E-Ray, which achieve this in 2.3 and 2.5 seconds, respectively. Additionally, the ZR1X is expected to complete the quarter-mile in less than 9 seconds at speeds exceeding 150 mph, outperforming the ZR1's time of 9.6 seconds and the E-Ray's 10.5 seconds. This remarkable performance positions the ZR1X amongst the fastest-accelerating vehicles available, even rivaling high-performance electric vehicles like the Lucid Air Sapphire and the Dodge Demon.
The standard ZR1 reaches a top speed of 233 mph, a feat matched by the ZR1X. Chevy has upgraded the eAWD system in the ZR1X to enhance both on-road and on-track performance. This system continuously monitors driver inputs to manage power delivery and traction effectively. Drivers can select from three distinct energy strategies when on the track: Push-to-Pass for maximum power, Qualifying for optimal lap times, and Endurance for sustained eAWD output during prolonged sessions.
All 2026 Corvettes, including the ZR1X, feature improved traction management with the new PTM Pro setting, which disables traction and stability control systems. However, the regenerative braking torque vectoring remains active in the ZR1X, along with front axle pre-control for optimal corner-exit traction.
While the J59 carbon-ceramic brake package is optional for the standard ZR1, it comes standard on the ZR1X. This advanced system features Chevy's largest rotors, measuring 16.5 inches front and rear, paired with 10-piston front calipers and 6-piston rear calipers. This setup has been reported to achieve a remarkable 1.9G of deceleration from 180 to 120 mph, making it the most resilient braking system ever tested by GM.
The ZR1X comes with a touring-focused chassis setup that incorporates magnetic ride control and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. For those seeking enhanced performance, an optional ZTK Performance package is available, featuring firmer springs and upgraded Pilot Cup 2R tires.
The ZR1X will be offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, featuring the updated interior design seen in other 2026 Corvettes. However, its exterior closely resembles the standard ZR1, with the only notable differences being its unique badges and an additional intercooler located in the front bumper.
Chevy plans to offer the ZR1X with the same Carbon Aero package available for other ZR1 models, which includes a prominent rear wing, front bumper dive planes, a gurney lip in front of the hood vent, and underbody strakes designed to produce 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speeds.
While Chevrolet has not yet disclosed pricing for the ZR1X, it is expected to carry a significant premium over the standard 2026 ZR1, which starts at $189,195. Production details remain under wraps, but it will be manufactured at the Bowling Green, Kentucky assembly plant alongside all other Corvettes, with the LT7 engine being hand-assembled as part of the process.
