A new set of race shocks have been added to help handle the 1.9 inch drop in the suspension, adding breaks and a set of lightweight Zerra Ultralight Evo 2 wheels.

Check out more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

The exterior of the model was also fitted with an aero kit made of carbon fiber that comes with a new front bumper and splitter, a large rear wing, and side skirts.

Power is where this tuner stands out with modified camshafts, cylinder heads, compressor ratios and valve springs. The throttle valve was enlarged, along with a remapped ECU, cooling system upgrades and a fully modified exhast. These changes add up to a neck-snapping 758hp and 671.2 lb-ft of torque.

By: Alexandra Koken

Car and Driver loves doing special features. So they’re back with their latest one for the 2012-year: the annual Lightning Lap. The competition is to compare some of the most critically acclaimed cars as of recent.

Taking place at Virginia’s International Raceway, the C/D team will compare a series of cars organized in various price classes and see who’s the fastest. The diversity includes and are not limited to the latest Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the Corvette ZR1, and for the first time, SUVs like the BMW X5 M and the hot new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8.

It really needs no explanation. And to make things more interesting, they even provided a video!

Check it out after the jump.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: CARandDRIVER

This may not be the fastest Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 in the world but it can sure run a quarter mile fast as hell.

Built by Late Model Racecraft, this Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 recently ran the quarter mile at 9.68 seconds at 147 mph. At the end the Corvette ZR1 was heard saying ‘just bring it.’

Check out the videos after the jump

- By: Omar Rana

General Motors today built its 100 millionth small block engine – 56 years after the first production small block made its debut. The small-black engine was introduced by Chevrolet in 1955 and the milestone comes at the same month the brand marked its 100th anniversary.

“The small block is the engine that brought high-performance to the people,” said David Cole, founder and emeritus chairman of Center for Automotive Research – and whose father, the late Ed Cole, was the chief engineer at Chevrolet and oversaw development of the original small block engine. “There is an elegant simplicity in its design that made it instantly great when new and enables it to thrive almost six decades later.”

So what is the milestone small block? A 638-hp  supercharged LS9 small block that will power a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. The engine is hand-built at GM’s Performance Build Center, northwest of Detroit.

The Detroit automaker is investing more than $1 billion in production facilities associated with producing small-block units. The investment has retained or created in 1,711 jobs. The company is currently working on the Gen V engine, which is expected in the near future and is guaranteed to have 4.4-inch bore centers.

- By: Omar Rana

Similar to  the Corvette Engine Build Experience that allows Corvette Z06 and ZR1 customers to participate in the assembly of the engine destined for their car, Chevrolet Performance is now offering customers the chance to build their own LS7 or LS9 crate engine.

“Building an engine is a time-honored tradition in hot rodding, and this exciting new program allows enthusiasts to enjoy that magical do-it-yourself feeling, while still enjoying the value of a factory-engineered, warranted crate engine,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “For hands-on hot rodders, this program truly enables them to say they did it all when it came to building their project. There’s nothing else like it in the industry.”

The program icnludes  part number 19259944 for the 505-hp LS7, which has an MSRP of $22,756.10, and part number 19259945 for the 638-hp LS9, which has an MSRP of $32,050.

Upon completion, a personalized nameplate is added to the engine. Each assembled engine carries Chevrolet Performance’s 24-month/50,000-mile limited warranty.

The program will debut next week at the 2011 SEMA Show.

Check out the LS7 and LS9 specs after the jump.

LS7 specs

Displacement: 7.0L (427 cubic inches)
Bore x stroke: 4.125 x 4.000 inches
Crankshaft: forged steel
Connecting rods: forged titanium
Cylinder heads: CNC-ported aluminum
Valves: 2.20-inch titanium, intake; 1.61-inch sodium-filled, exhaust
Induction: natural aspirated
Compression ratio: 11:1
Horsepower: 505 @ 6,300 rpm
Torque: 470 lb.-ft. @ 4,800 rpm

LS9 specs

Displacement: 6.2L (376 cubic inches)
Bore x stroke: 4.125 x 3.620 inches
Crankshaft: forged steel
Connecting rods: forged titanium
Cylinder heads: roto-cast aluminum
Valves: 2.16-inch titanium, intake; 1.59-inch sodium-filled, exhaust
Induction: supercharged
Compression ratio: 9.1:1
Horsepower: 638 @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 604 lb.-ft. @ 3,800 rpm

- By: Omar Rana

General Motors has given dealers pricing information for the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette and it seems like the cost of owning a ‘Vette is going up. According to documents given to dealers, the sticker price for the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is going up between $480 and $1,150, depending on which model you choose.

The only exception in the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette lineup is the ZR1, which is getting a price drop of $75 to $112,500, including the $975 shipping charge.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

Prices for Chevrolet Corvette options are also going up. The 2LT Corvette group regular and Grand Sport coupes will go from $1,195 in 2011 to $2,095 for the 2012. The 3LT will go up from $4,205 to $5,995, while the 4LT package will go up from $7,705 to $9,495.

The Chevrolet Corvette Centennial Special Edition will cost you an additional $4,950 and can be had on any Corvette model.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Corvette Blogger

Since yesterday General Motors announced that the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 set a new Nurburgring lap record, we felt it was only right to put the car in a ‘Let’s Talk Numbers’ battle against its biggest competitor – the 2012 Nissan GT-R. For argument sake, we even added the Nurburgring for each car’s 2012 model year run on the Nordschleife.

Let’s get started.

First time at egmCarTech? Visit our home page for the latest news.

Click here to check out our previous Let’s Talk Number wars.

2012 Nissan GT-R:

• Style: Coupe.
• Drive Type: All-wheel-drive.
• Power: 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged  V6 / 530-hp  at 6,400 rpm – 448 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm.
• Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch with three driver-selectable modes .
• 0 to 60 mph: 2.9 seconds.
• Top Speed: 196 mph.
• Nurburgring Lap Time: 7:24.22.
• Curb Weight: 3,829 lbs.
• Fuel-economy: 16/23 mpg (city/highway).
• Price: $89,950.

2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1:

• Style: Coupe.
• Drive Type: Rear-wheel-drive.
• Power: 6.2L liter Supercharged V8 / 638-hp  at 6,500 rpm – 604 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm.
• Transmission: 6-speed manual.
• 0 to 60 mph: 3.4 seconds.
• Top Speed: 205 mph.
• Nurburgring Lap Time: 7:19.63.
• Curb Weight: 3,333 lbs.
• Fuel-economy: 14/20 mpg (city/highway).
• Price: $110,300.

Let us know which model you think wins this Let’s Talk Numbers battle. Post your comments after the jump or just cast your vote in the poll below.

2012 Nissan GT-R:

- By: Omar Rana

The Chevrolet Corvette returned to the world’s most-demanding testing ground and the backyard to some of its most major competitors – Germany’s Nurburgring Nordschleife.

For the 2012 model year, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 recorded a lap time of 7:19.63, more than six seconds faster than the previous Corvette-best recorded in 2008 (7:26.24) – that is astonishingly fast! Just like in 2008, the car was driven by Corvette engineer Jim Mero and was a full production model with no performance modifications. This test was to validate the car’s added performance technology coming to production later this summer for the 2012 model year.

Click here for more details on the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

”Testing at the Nurburgring is one of the important methods we have to validate our car in the toughest track conditions.” says Tadge Juechter, Corvette vehicle line director and chief engineer.

GM has released an ‘inside point-of-view’ video for our viewing pleasure and says that a lap video featuring the Corvette Z06 will be released soon.

Here is an updated list of Nurubrgring Lap Times to give you an idea of where the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 stands:

• Radical SR8 LM: 6:48 (Aug. 2009).
• Radical SR8: 6:55 (Sept. 2005).
• Gumpert Apollo Speed: 7:11.5 (Aug. 2009).
• Porsche 911 GT2 RS: 7:18 (Apr. 2010).
• 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1: 7:19.63 (Jun. 2011).
• Dodge Viper ACR: 7:22.1 (Aug. 2008).
• Porsche 911 GT2 RS: 7:24 (Nov. 2010).
• 2011 Nissan GT-R: 7:24.22 (Oct. 2010).
• Maserati MC12: 7:24.3 (Aug. 2008).
• Pagani Zonda F Clubsport: 7:24.44 (Aug. 2008).
• Ferrari Enzo: 7:25.7 (Aug. 2008).
• Ferrari 458 Italia: 7:32.02 (Nov. 2010).
• Koenigsegg CCX: 7:33.6 (Aug. 2008).
• Koenigsegg CCR: 7:34 (Oct. 2005).
• Lexus LFA: 7:38 (Sept. 2010).

Hit the jump for the video.

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

Earlier this morning, General Motors announced that it will be investing $131 million in its Bowling Green plant to support production of the next generation Chevrolet Corvette. However, the question remains – when will we see the next-generation Corvette?

GM said that the plant will continue building the current generation Corvette for at least the next two model years, including the 2012 model year that begins this summer. During that period, the investment will start to take effect, preparing the facility for the next-generation Corvette.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

The Corvette is currently in its sixth-generation and hasn’t received any major upgrades since the sixth-generation model made its debut in 2005. Nonetheless, Chevrolet recently announced a line of upgrades for the 2012 Corvette model year.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette:

- By: Omar Rana

Chevrolet Corvette Bowling Green Assembly Plant

General Motors announced today that it will invest $131 million (not $100 million as reported yesterday) in its Bowling Green Assembly plant to support production of the next generation Chevrolet Corvette, adding about 250 jobs.

“This is a significant day for anyone who believes that America should build world-class, high-performance products,” said Mark Reuss, GM North America president. “Corvette has no domestic peer for performance and pedigree and stands alongside the world’s best supercars with almost 60 years of continuous heritage.

“This investment in Kentucky is among $3.4 billion made in the United States since mid-2009 to keep or create more than 9,000 jobs for American workers,” Reuss said.

Bowling Green is the exclusive manufacturer of all versions of the Chevrolet Corvette including the Coupe, Convertible, Grand Sport, Z06, and ZR1.

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

General Motors announced today that its North America President Mark Reuss will be holding a press conference tomorrow at GM Bowling Green Assembly, 600 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY 42101.

GM said the announcement is a “positive news announcement for the plant and Corvette lovers.”

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

According to sources that spoke with the Wall Street Journal, GM plans to announce an investment of around $100 million to upgrade its Corvette factory in Bowling Green, Ky., people familiar with the situation said, the latest sign that auto maker’s penny-pinching days are behind it.

Chevrolet recently announced a line of upgrades for the 2012 Corvette model year.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: GM, WSJ

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06

After some leaked details, General Motors today released official info on the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette upgrades. Enhancement for the 2012 model year Corvette include upgrades to the Z06 and ZR1 models along with interior upgrades across the whole Corvette lineup.

“We constantly strive to make the Corvette a better car on the road and the track,” says Tadge Juechter, Corvette vehicle line director and chief engineer. “For 2012, the Corvette lineup achieves itshighest performance level ever, while at the same time being easier to drive and enjoy thanks to several changes and new features inside the car.”

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

Upgrades for the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette:

• Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires for the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and ZR1.
• PDE performance package on the ZR1.
• Performance Traction Management (offered on the Z06 for the first time in 2012).
• A full-width racing-style spoiler for improved aerodynamics is also included in both the ’12 Z07 and PDE packages.
• The Z06 model will now offer Magnetic Selective Ride Control.
• A carbon fiber hood will be an available option on 2012 Z06 models.
• Standard manual transmission for ZR1 will include taller gearing in fifth and sixth gears, for a 2-mpg improvement in highway fuel economy.
• All 2012 Corvette models will include a new seat design and a new steering wheel.
• Bose uplevel audio system, which includes nine speakers.
• A new Technology Package (2LT trim level) adds navigation radio, head-up display, Bose premium audio system, Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity and a USB port.
• Customers can select brake caliper colors, for more personalization. The calipers are offered in the red, yellow, silver or gray.

Hit the jump for a video and press release for more details.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette:

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette:

Press Release:

Corvette Performance Reaches Higher in 2012
Interior enhancements, new performance packages highlight upgrades

DETROIT – Chevrolet announced today that it will once again elevate Corvette’s performance capabilities with a series of improvements for the 2012 model year that improve on-track performance and on-road comfort. They include enhancements to the high-performance Z06 and ZR1 models as well as interior upgrades across the Corvette lineup.

Sports car fans will get their first look at the 2012 models – including the racing-inspired appearance of the Chevrolet Centennial Edition – at a special event this weekend at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Ky. Production begins in July.

New Michelin Cup ZP tires elevate Z06/ZR1 performance

Corvette’s greater performance for 2012 begins with the new, optional Michelin^® Pilot^® Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires, which are available on the two highest-performing models, the lightweight, 505-hp (377 kW) Z06 and the maximum-performance, 638-hp (476 kW) supercharged ZR1. They are competition-oriented tires, optimized for warm, dry conditions to increase cornering and handling capability.

When combined with the Corvette’s exclusive Performance Traction Management (PTM) technology – which manages torque delivery for maximum performance – the tires are expected to help set new benchmarks for Corvette performance. Engineers estimate an 8-percent gain in maximum lateral acceleration, to more than 1.1g, and improved braking distance. Testing at Virginia International Raceway has demonstrated improvement of approximately three seconds per lap.

The Cup ZP tires were developed by the same Michelin engineers who develop tires for Corvette Racing in the American Le Mans Series and are essentially street-legal versions of a racing tire. They are included in the optional Z07 performance package on the Corvette Z06 and a new PDE performance package on the ZR1. The 285/30-19 (front) and 335/25-20 (rear) tires are matched with all-new aluminum Cup-style wheels in satin black or machined finishes. They are about five pounds lighter (2.2 kg) and stronger than the 20-spoke wheel offered in 2011.

Performance Traction Management (offered on the Z06 for the first time in 2012) is an advanced system that optimizes traction for greater and more consistent on-track performance. The system also integrates traction control, active handling and selective ride control systems to enhance race track driving consistency and overall performance. When full throttle is applied upon exiting a corner, it automatically manages acceleration dynamics.

A full-width racing-style spoiler for improved aerodynamics is also included in both the ’12 Z07 and PDE packages. The Z06 model will now offer Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology – an innovation Corvette pioneered several years ago. And as before, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes will be a part of the Z07 chassis package (they are standard on ZR1). Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires remain standard on the ZR1.

A carbon fiber hood will be an available option on 2012 Z06 models, while the standard manual transmission for ZR1 will include taller gearing in fifth and sixth gears, for a 2-mpg improvement in highway fuel economy.

Interior and feature changes

All 2012 Corvette models will include a new seat design and a new steering wheel. The seats feature larger bolsters on the seat back and cushion areas, which provide better driver support, especially in high-performance driving while remaining comfortable for daily street driving. Microfiber suede seat inserts are optional and improve tactile feel, as well as add additional support.

The new seats are complemented by the revised steering wheel, featuring model-specific badges, streamlined switch trim and wrapped spokes. Padded center console and armrests for all models are now included for 2012. An additional visual touch inside the car is contrasting color stitching – in red, blue and yellow – which is available with the custom leather-wrapped interior.

Also coming in 2012 is a new Bose uplevel audio system, which includes nine speakers (compared to seven in 2011) for improved audio quality that is more precisely tuned to the cabin’s acoustics. New tweeters located in the instrument panel and improved Bose Nd next-generation bass performance is the main benefit that Corvette drivers will hear.

A new Technology Package (2LT trim level) brings together many of the Corvette’s popular infotainment features and makes them available for more models. The package’s equipment includes the navigation radio, head-up display, Bose premium audio system, Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity and a USB port.

Wrapping up the new features for 2012 is the availability for customers to select brake caliper colors, for more personalization of their Corvette. The calipers are offered in the red, yellow, silver or gray.

- By: Omar Rana

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Miller Motorsports Park Lap Record

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR has a very impressive track record. . In November 2009, SRT vehicle dynamics engineer Chris Winkler lapped the Laguna Seca raceway in 1:33.92, beating the previous record by 1.1 seconds. Before that in August 2008, Dutch driver Tom Coronel set a 7:22.1 production car record at the 12.9-mile Nurburgring Nordschleife.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR is now back, once again making history and breaking records.

Click here for more news on the Dodge Viper.

Dodge road racer Kuno Wittmer drove a street legal 2010 Dodge Viper ACR to a record lap of 1:59.995 at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, earlier this week. His time ended up breaking the 2-minute mark for the first time in a production car on the Outer Course configuration. That time shatters the previous production car lap record of 2:03.86, held by Jan Magnussen in a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 by almost 4 seconds.

“It’s amazing to come to this world-class track and shatter the production car lap record by almost 4 seconds,” said Bryan Viger, Head of Dodge Motorsports. “We brought our street-legal Viper ACR to see what Kuno could do behind the wheel, and on his second lap he’d already gone faster than the single lap record.”

Hit the jump to see the video and we the press talk.

Refresher: The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR is powered by a 8.4L V10 engine making 600-hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. That allows for a 0-60 mph time of less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat. The top speed comes in at 184 mph.

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Miller Motorsports Park Lap Record:

Press Release:

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Does It Again: Kuno Wittmer Sets Production Car Lap Record at Miller Motorsports Park

• Wittmer breaks two-minute mark for first time in street-legal, production vehicle

April 14, 2011 , Tooele, Utah - The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) has made history at yet another storied road course.

Renowned Dodge road racer Kuno Wittmer piloted a street legal 2010 Dodge Viper ACR to a record lap of 1:59.995 at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, on Monday, April 11, breaking the 2-minute mark for the first time in a production car on the 3.048-mile Outer Course configuration. The Viper ACR shattered the previous production car lap record of 2:03.86, held by Jan Magnussen in a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 by close to 4 full seconds.

A veteran behind the wheel of the Viper on and off the track, Wittmer continues to be impressed by the performance of the Dodge Viper ACR. “Wow, what an awesome supercar!” the Montreal native said after exiting the car. “The Viper ACR is such a blast to drive at the limit, and I can honestly say that I didn’t leave an inch out there on the track and was barely braking in the corners.”

This latest achievement joins a growing list of track records for the Dodge Viper ACR. In November 2009, SRT vehicle dynamics engineer Chris Winkler lapped the 2.238-mile, Laguna Seca raceway in 1:33.92, beating the previous record by 1.1 seconds. Dutch driver Tom Coronel set a 7:22.1 production car record at the 12.9-mile Nurburgring Nordschleife in August 2008.

Dodge Viper ACR

The Dodge Viper ACR remains the ultimate purpose-built, street-legal track car since its introduction in 2008.

Powered by the venerable 8.4-liter, V-10 engine with 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque, the Dodge Viper ACR continues to offer extreme performance, including 0-60 mph acceleration in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat.

The four-wheel independent suspension features high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, KW suspension with two-way adjustable competition coil-over shock absorbers with remote reservoirs.

The aerodynamic package features a carbon fiber “fanged” splitter in front and adjustable carbon-fiber wing with seven-position stanchions that allow up to an amazing 1,000 lbs. of downforce at 150 mph. Lightweight wheels, two-piece slotted StopTech brake rotors and Michelin PS Cup tires round out the ACR package.

For the 2010 model year, the Dodge Viper ACR received a shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from 0.74 to 0.80) for improved high-speed acceleration and higher straightaway speeds. A new short-throw shifter also came in 2010 models for enhanced driver experience and better performance. The rear wing profile and end plates were also redesigned to further optimize the vehicle aerodynamics and improve rear yaw downforce. These changes resulted in an increase in top speed of 4 mph (to 184 mph).

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Hennessey ZR750 Corvette ZR1

Meet Hennessey Performance Engineering’s latest toy – the 2011 ZR750 Corvette ZR1. The company has dropped a new video with John Hennessey himself at the wheel to show off the new tuned ‘Vettes power.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

The Hennessey ZR750 Corvette ZR1 Package includes a Supercharger Pulley upgrade, High Flow Supercharger Snout upgrade, HPE High Flow Air Induction System, High Flow Cylinder Heads, ZR750 Camshaft Upgrade and much, much more. That allows for a total of 755-hp at 6,600 rpm with a maximum torque of 728 lb-ft at 4,700 rpm. That allows 0 to 60 mph to come in 2.8 seconds with a top speed of 224 mph. The Hennessey ZR750 Corvette ZR1 can complete the quarter mile in 10.3 seconds at 139 mph.

Hit the jump videos of the 2011 ZR750 Corvette ZR1.

2011 Hennessey ZR750 Corvette ZR1:

2011 ZR750 Corvette ZR1 Test Drive:

2011 Hennessey ZR750 Chassis Dyno Test:

Hennessey ZR750 Corvette ZR1 Upgrade:

Power:

• 755 bhp @ 6,600 rpm
• 728 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm

Performance:

• 0-60 mph: 2.8 sec.*
• 1/4 mile: 10.3 @ 139 mph*
• Top Speed: 224 mph
* With optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires

ZR750 Upgrade Package Includes:

• Supercharger Pulley Upgrade (Increases boost from 9 to 13 psi)
• High Flow Supercharger Snout Upgrade
• HPE High Flow Air Induction System
• High Flow Cylinder Heads
• Extreme Duty Valve Springs
• ZR750 Camshaft Upgrade
• Stainless Steel Long Tube Headers
• High Flow Catalytic Converters
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• 6,700 rpm Rev Limiter (200 rpm over stock)
• Chassis Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• Hennessey Exterior Badging
• Hennessey Premium Floormats
• 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Limited Warranty

- By: Omar Rana

“Racing and performance are the roots of Chevrolet, a tradition carried forward today by Corvette,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “The Centennial Edition not only celebrates our 100 years, it once again pushes Corvette forward for a new generation of sports car fans.”

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

The Centennial Edition Corvette package comes exclusively in Carbon Flash Metallic, with satin-black graphics and Centennial Satin Black wheels and red brake calipers. The wheels are constructed of lightweight cast-spun aluminum and include a thin red outline. The wheels are specific to the respective Corvette models, including 18-inch/19-inch for Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport and 19-inch/20-inch for Z06 and ZR1. Performance wise, Magnetic Selective Ride Control is included on all Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette models.

The 2012 Centennial Edition package will be available on all Corvette models starting this summer. Pricing will be announced this summer prior to the start of availability.

Check out the high-res gallery, a video and the press release after the jump.

Press Release:

DETROIT – Chevrolet, founded by a racing pioneer 100 years ago, celebrates its performance heritage with the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette, which features a sleek black color scheme, unique design elements and Corvette’s trademark sports car technology.

The 2012 Centennial Edition package will be available on all Corvette models – including Grand Sport, Z06 and ZR1 – starting this summer.

The special package was inspired by Chevrolet’s racing-bred foundation, which continues with Corvette’s international racing excellence and production sports car prominence.

Chevrolet will auction a Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition at the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in West Palm Beach, Fla., on April 9, with the proceeds to benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. It will be the 100th 2012 Corvette off the assembly line, with a vehicle identification number ending in “00100.”

The Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette expresses racing heritage, but does so with a sleek, modern, even sinister-looking appearance. The Centennial Edition package comes exclusively in Carbon Flash Metallic, with satin-black graphics and unique Centennial Satin Black wheels and red brake calipers. The wheels are constructed of lightweight cast-spun aluminum and include a thin red outline around the perimeter of its surface on the Z06. The wheels are specific to the respective Corvette models, including 18-inch/19-inch for Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport; and 19-inch/20-inch for Z06 and ZR1.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension and a technology advance initiated by Corvette, is included on all Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette models.

The Centennial Edition also features special badges that signify Chevrolet’s racing history. A graphic logo featuring an iconic image of Louis Chevrolet appears on the B-pillars, the center caps of the wheels, and the center of the steering wheel. The seat headrests also carry an embossed centennial logo.

Aficionados will note one other small detail: The historic crossed flags badge contains a small adaptation, with “100” in place of the traditional fleur-de-lis symbol, only for the Centennial Edition.

The exterior color scheme is reinforced inside the car, with the Ebony leather-wrapped instrument panel and doors complimented by red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, console and shifter.  Microfiber suede accents on Centennial Edition seats, steering wheel, shifter and armrests were first used on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Limited Edition.

The Chevrolet Centennial Edition will be available on all Corvette models via order code ZLC. Pricing will be released this summer prior to the start of availability.

“Louis Chevrolet was a fearless racing pioneer who also designed our first car,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing.  “Corvette is a natural fit to honor that legacy, while creating a compelling new package for sports car drivers.”

Barrett-Jackson auction details

Chevrolet chose to debut the Centennial Edition Corvette at Barrett-Jackson to enable the auction proceeds to go to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. The foundation supporting children and families dealing with cancer is a key partner with the American Le Mans Series, in whichCorvette Racing is an integral participant.

The 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 (VIN 100) to be auctioned is based on the production 3LZ model with the Z07 performance package, new Z06 carbon fiber hood and CFZ carbon fiber package, which includes:

• Bose premium sound system, with one-year XM subscription, navigation and USB
• Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
• Power-adjustable and heated seats
• Memory package, home remote, Head Up Display and power-telescoping steering wheel
• The Custom Leather Wrapped Interior Package, with leather-wrapped upper instrument panels, upper door trim panels and console storage cover and red contrasting stitching
• Z07 performance package, including Brembo ceramic brakes, Magnetic Ride Control and 19-inch/20-inch wheels and Michelin tires
• CFZ package includes carbon fiber rockers, front splitter and roof
• New Carbon Fiber raised hood option for Z06, which was introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition.

The winning bidder will also receive the Corvette Engine Build Experience program – which   allows Z06 or ZR1 buyers to build their own engine alongside expert technicians – as well as the opportunity to take delivery of the car at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Chevrolet has released a new commercial for its Corvette ZR1, in which it ends up taking a shot at Porsche, Ferrari and BMW. Is it a well deserved shot? We’re not so sure.

Hit the jump to see the commercial.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

Refresher: The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is powered by a 6.2 Liter LS9 aluminum block V8 equipped with a four-lobe Eaton Twin Vortices Series supercharger with intercooler. The engine makes 638 hp at 6500 rpm and 604 lb-ft of torque at 3800 rpm. Prices start $111,100.

Hit the jump to check out the commercial.

2010 Chevrolet Corvettte ZR1:

2010 Chevrolet Corvettte ZR1:

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 at the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School

Until now, the Corvette Driving School was exclusively offered to those that purchased a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Chevrolet has now announced that U.S. customers who purchase any model of a new Corvette through Feb. 28 can also take advantage of free tuition at either of the two official Corvette driving schools. For a limited time, the school is available to buyers of any new Corvette model, from the Coupe and Convertible, to the Grand Sport and Z06 models.

“This special offer extends an exclusive piece of the Corvette driving experience to new owners,” says Jim Campbell, U.S. vice president of performance vehicles and motorsports. “Corvette owners have experiences open to them unlike any others, from touring the plant and National Corvette Museum, to advanced driver training, and even building their own engine.”

Chevrolet’s official driving schools are the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving near Phoenix and the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School at Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch outside Las Vegas.

Buyers have one year from their delivery date to take advantage of the opportunity. Of course you will be responsible for your own accommodations and travel.

- By: Omar Rana

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 LS9 6.2L supercharged engine

Over the summer, Chevrolet announced the “Corvette Engine Build Experience” – a program exclusively open to Corvette buyers that want to built their own engine. The program allows customers who order a 2011 Corvette Z06 or ZR1 to pay an additional $5,800 to assemble their car”s LS7 or LS9 engines at the Performance Build Center (PBC).

Come the 2010 SEMA show next week, Chevrolet will slowly assemble a LS9 6.2L supercharged engine that powers the Corvette ZR1 on the show floor in Las Vegas.

The first person (so far the only one we’ve heard of) taking the chance to build their own Corvette engine is Todd Schnitt, host of a Tampa-based syndicated radio show. Schnitt personally helped build the 638-hp supercharged small block engine for his new Corvette ZR1.

Click through for the press release.

2010 Chevrolet Corvettte ZR1:

Press Release:

Corvette Engine Build Booth Coming to SEMA
Chevrolet exhibit will include “build your own” Corvette engine demonstration

DETROIT ““ Skilled engine builders from General Motors” Performance Build Center (PBC) will slowly assemble the LS9 6.2L supercharged engine that powers the Corvette ZR1 on the floor of this year”s SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Booth #23743 within the Chevrolet display will be the place for SEMA attendees to watch and ask questions as the engine comes together during SEMA”s Nov. 2-5 run.

The skilled engine builders will be demonstrating the Corvette Engine Build Experience, an industry-exclusive program open to Corvette buyers. The program allows customers who order a 2011 Corvette Z06 or ZR1 to pay an additional $5,800 to assemble their car”s LS7 or LS9 engines at the PBC.

When a customer selects the PBC option for a 2011 Corvette Z06 or ZR1 and the dealer submits the order to Chevrolet, a special concierge contacts the customer to verify participation and help coordinate arrangements. While travel arrangements to and from Detroit are the customer”s responsibility, the Chevrolet concierge helps schedule the engine build; coordinates the customer”s activities at the Performance Build Center in Wixom, Michigan; assists with booking local lodging and meals, and arranges local transportation.

Recently, Todd Schnitt, host of a Tampa-based syndicated radio show, built the LS9 that powers the ZR1 for which he recently took delivery. He described his experience as “over the top.”

Skilled builders at the PBC individually hand-build each Corvette Z06 LS7 7.0L engine, Corvette ZR1 6.2L supercharged LS9 engine and a variation of the Corvette Grand Sport”s LS3 6.2L engine. The PBC incorporates the best practices of low-volume niche manufacturers and the established quality and manufacturing standards at GM to ensure the highest-quality specialized engines. Engines built as part of the Corvette Engine Build Experience program are covered by GM”s five-year / 100,000 mile warranty.

The LS9 engine produces 638 SAE certified horsepower and propels the Corvette ZR1 from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds. It is built with titanium connecting rods, forged pistons, a dry sump oiling system and four-lobe 2.3L supercharger.

- By: Zain Haq