A new and improved version of Specter Werkes’ latest Corvette C6 GTR will be distinguished by its unique BASF Pearl Blue exterior color and HRE CF40 carbon fiber wheels next week at the 2009 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Based on Corvette Z06, the new Corvette GTR is a result of a collaboration between Specter Werkes and Lingenfelter Performance Engineering. Lingenfelter provided a twin-turbo system that takes power of the 7.0L LS7 engine to a whopping 800-hp. 0-60 mph and top speed figures were not released but we’re pretty sure they’re nothing short of impressive.

Other than that, Specter Werkes added some styling kits that makes this Z06 look much more aggressive than the stock Corvette ZR1.

Click the ‘Continue Reading’ button for the press release.

2009 Specter Werkes Corvette C6 GTR:

Press Release:

NEWEST CORVETTE GTR FROM SPECTER WERKES/SPORTS DEBUTS AT SEMA WITH HRE CARBON FIBER WHEELS AND LINGENFELTER TWIN-TURBO SYSTEM

TROY, Mich. – The latest Corvette GTR by Specter Werkes/Sports debuts Nov. 3 at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Distinguished by its unique, BASF Pearl Blue exterior color and HRE CF40 carbon fiber wheels, the newest GTR will be on display outside the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Central Hall, as a feature vehicle for HRE.

Based on the Corvette Z06, this new GTR also represents a collaboration between Specter Werkes and Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, with a Lingenfelter twin-turbo system powering the car – and pumping its 7.0-liter LS7 engine to 800 horsepower.

“Specter GTRs have been featured at SEMA for many years and we’re excited to debut the most unique example to date at this year’s show,” said Jeff Nowicki, president of Specter Werkes/Sports. “From the BASF pearl paint and HRE carbon wheels, to the Lingenfelter engine, there’s never been a GTR like this one and we think it will resonate with sports car enthusiasts of all stripes.”

Featuring dramatic bodywork and carbon fiber details, the GTR blends racing-inspired design cues with uncompromising luxury and performance. The Specter Werkes/Sports GTR package is available on all C6 Corvette models, including the base coupe and convertible, the Z06 and ZR1. The new, Pearl Blue example’s carbon fiber wheels and other carbon accents are complemented by a matte black rear fascia.

The use of HRE carbon fiber wheels is a first on a GTR. They weigh only 22 pounds apiece and are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Zero Pressure tires. Additional features on the new GTR include:

• StopTech STR big-brake package, featuring six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers
• Mobil 1 synthetic fluids
• Corsa exhaust system with GTR-specific exhaust tips
• Spinneybeck hand-tipped leather interior accents
• Matte-finish carbon fiber accents, including the headlamp housing, front splitter, outside mirrors and more

Specter Werkes/Sports is an automotive prototype and fabrication facility based in Troy, Mich. It specializes in race-proven engine performance enhancements and creating specialty accessories for the C5 and C6 Corvette, the Cadillac CTS and more.

For more information, visit www.spectergtr.com or call 248-583-9559.

- By: Omar Rana

Next week, the tuner crowd will gather for the 2009 SEMA show in Las Vegas. GM has released a video giving us a sneak peek at what Chevrolet has in store for the 2010 Camaro and the Corvette for the show.

We’ll have all the high-res images and details for you next week during the show.

Stay tuned.

Click through for the video.

- By: Kap Shah

Ever since General Motors launched its new money-back guarantee program, it has had one customer return a car, GM’s Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said today. Lutz said that GM sold about 150,000 vehicles since the program began in September – of that, just over 100 customers opted to take a 60-day money-back guarantee, while the rest went for the $500 cash incentive, reports Automotive News.

“Out of hundreds of thousands, the people who’ve selected the 60-day guarantee were in the hundreds,” Lutz said. “We have had one substantiated return of a vehicle.”

The only return was more of an exchange. The situation involved a man who purchased a Chevrolet Corvette with a manual transmission. After driving it around for a month, he felt that shifting gears was inconvenient so he exchanged it for an automatic transmission.

“He brought it back because he had made a mistake,” Lutz said.

GM’s 60-day money-back guarantee program runs through November.

Lutz also touted the Detroit automaker’s average transaction price for its cars. According to J.D. Power data, GM’s average transaction price, including vehicles from Saab, Saturn and HUMMER, was up $8,000 to $34,069 compared with figures from 2008. Overall industry average was up $3,613 to $30,327.

- By: Stephen Calogera

During a live chat session with General Motors Company’s CEO Fritz Henderson last week on GM’s FastLane Blog, the head of the Detroit automaker was asked what cars he has in his garage right now.

Fritz replied that he owns a “Camaro, my 2005 corvette and a Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.” Henderson did not specify which Camaro (V6, or the V8 SS) he owns, neither did he tell us what’s under the hood of his Corvette.

Either way, we just thought you guys would like to know.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: GM FastLane Blog

General Motors Company has no plans of getting rid of the Chevrolet Corvette, says Tom Stephen, GM’s vice chairman of global product development. However, to meet government requirements on fuel-economy standards, GM may consider offering a hybrid powertrain for the Corvette.

“We will only do a hybrid if that is what is required to maintain the vehicle,” Stephens told Automotive News. “I think we have a pretty good plan right now that probably will not require a hybrid in the near term.”

New requirements set by the Obama administration require vehicles to average 35.5 mpg in the 2016 model year.

Stephens said that to boost fuel-economy, GM plans to reduce the weight of the Corvette, offer low resistance tires and an engine with direct injection, variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation.

Currently the base 430-hp 2010 Chevrolet Corvette gets an estimated fuel-economy of 16/24 mpg (city/highway).

Chevrolet Stingray Concept:

- By: Omar Rana

We absolutely love launch control features on the sports cars we get in our press fleet. Heck, we’d be lying if we said that we didn’t get up every morning – hopped in one of our press cars, headed over to a safe locations, and just counted down to 0.

One car we still have to get behind is the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport. However, GM just sent us some footage from a recent launch event where they presented the launch control feature.

Refresher: Power comes from a LS3 6.2L V8 producing 430-hp and a peak torque of 424 lb-ft when mated to a standard exhaust system. Output is increased to 436-hp when mated to the optional two-mode exhaust system. The model will also feature widebody styling along with a racing-bred suspension. The Corvette Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages. The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport starts at $55,720 for the coupe and $59,530 for the convertible.

Click through for the video and the updated high-res photo gallery.

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport:

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport – Launch Control:

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Intro:

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Guy gets car impounded, pays $88 in pennies to get it back: We all know it’s a huge hassle to get your car impounded; so how do you make getting it back a little interesting? Pay the folks who are holding your car in pennies because after all, it is “legal tender.” – Fast Lane Daily

Ray Wert drives the multi-million dollar Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept: Yes, we envy Wert and his perks right now. So will this be the next 2013 Chevrolet Corvette scheduled to go into production in 2012? According to Tom Peters, designer of the Stingray concept and the new Chevrolet Camaro, the Stingray concept is “not the C7.” However, he told Wert “that’s not to say there aren’t elements here that can translate into what the C7’s about.” – Jalopnik

- By: Omar Rana

Yesterday, General Motors Company announced a number of new products in the pipeline. We heard about two new Cadillac sedans, a new Buick sedan and crossover, the Chevrolet Orlando, Camaro Convertible and the next-generation Malibu.

However, there was one popular GM model left out of the mix – the Chevrolet Corvette. According to the folks over at Automotive News, production of the next-generation Corvette, known as the C7, is expected to start in April 2012 for the 2013 model year.

Sources say that the front-engine layout will be maintained. Anyone looking to see the 2009 Chevrolet Stingray with a 638-hp 6.2L V8 from the ZR-1? Yes, we are already excited.

Chevrolet Stingray Concept:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Automotive News (via Corvette Blogger)

After make its presence known in the GT1 American Le Mans Series, Corvette Racing is now entering the GT2 Class territory with the new Corvette C6.R. The new model will make its competition debut at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course this weekend.

This will put Corvette Racing and their Corvette C6.R race car head to head with Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Viper, Panoz, and Ford.

“We’re not running for a championship this year, so we’re looking at the upcoming races as preparation for 2010,” said team manager Gary Pratt. “Certainly we hope to achieve the same level of success that we did in GT1, but the caliber of the competition we will face in GT2 is very high. When we started in GT1 in 1999, it took a while to win; now we have 10 years of experience that should help us to become competitive in a new category. Everyone at Corvette Racing is looking forward to the challenge.”

In the remaining races in 2009, the Corvette C6.R will be powered by a 6.0L GM small-block V8. A 5.5L production-based GM small-block V8 is currently under development. It will be introduced at the start of the 2010 season.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2010 Chevrolet Corvette C6.R GT2:

Press Release:

Corvette Racing to Introduce Corvette C6.R in GT2 Class at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Next-Generation Race Cars Strengthen Links Between Competition and Production Corvettes

DETROIT – Corvette Racing will open a new chapter with the competition debut of the next-generation Corvette C6.R at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course on August 6-8. In anticipation of a single GT class in 2010, Corvette Racing will test and develop the latest Corvette C6.R in the GT2 category in the final five rounds of the 2009 American Le Mans Series. With the upcoming move to a unified GT category, the twin Compuware Corvette C6.R race cars will compete against rivals representing Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Viper, Panoz, and Ford.

Based on the Corvette ZR1 supercar, the next-generation Corvette C6.R has even stronger links to the production version of America’s performance icon than its predecessors. The GT2 rules require the use of many production-based components, expanding the opportunities for the two-way transfer of technology between the race track and the showroom. The updated Corvette C6.R utilizes the ZR1’s body design, aerodynamic package, aluminum frame and chassis structure, steering system, windshield, and other components. The race team has prepared the cars for the rigors of endurance racing with safety and performance modifications as permitted by the GT2 rules.

“One of the many benefits of the Corvette Racing program has been the opportunity to demonstrate the technology transfer between the race car and the production car,” said Mark Kent, GM Racing manager. “The global movement toward a single GT class will allow us to compete head-to-head with more marketplace competitors while increasing both the production content of the Corvette C6.R race cars and the relevance of racing to our customers. This is a step that positions Corvette for the future of production-based sports car racing worldwide, and a move that is perfectly aligned with GM’s marketing and business objectives in racing.”

Previous versions of the Corvette C5-R and C6.R race cars have dominated the GTS and GT1 categories in the last decade, winning 77 races and eight consecutive ALMS championships. The GT1 Corvettes were retired following Corvette Racing’s sixth victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 14, 2009.

“In our decade in GT1, our primary focus has been on racing victories and the validation of the Corvette as a world-class sports car,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “As an authentic way to communicate to knowledgeable customers, nothing beats racing. As a cost-effective means to improve vehicle performance, nothing beats racing. These are the reasons racing is in Corvette’s DNA.

“Behind the scenes, the race team and the production car team have grown closer together, finding numerous ways to support each other and to make both cars better,” Juechter said. “Most automotive companies give lip service to claims like ‘racing improves the breed’ or ‘race on Sunday, sell on Monday’. For team Corvette, it is a daily reality. It is now impossible to imagine one team without the other.”

The upcoming GT regulations required a comprehensive redesign of the Corvette C6.R package. In place of the GT1 Corvette’s steel frame, the GT2 version utilizes the production ZR1’s hydroformed aluminum frame as the foundation for a fully integrated tubular steel safety cage. The GT1 version’s wide, louvered fenders are replaced by production-based ZR1 fenders with wheel flares. In accordance with the aerodynamic regulations, the rear wing is reduced 25 percent in width, the diffuser is a flat panel without fences or strakes, and the splitter extends only as far as its production ZR1 counterpart. Steel brake rotors have replaced the carbon discs used previously, and the wheels are aluminum instead of magnesium. The adjustable steering column and steering rack are sourced from the street Corvette.

“Integrating a steel safety cage that meets GM Racing’s stringent standards as well as the strength and durability targets required in racing is a challenge with an aluminum frame,” explained Corvette Racing engineering director Doug Louth. “Working in conjunction with the structure and chassis engineers in the Corvette production group, we designed, built and tested numerous examples before we finalized the configuration. We went through a similar process with the production Corvette group on the body design and aero components. It was truly a collaborative effort between the production engineers and the race team.”

In the remaining races in 2009, the Corvette race cars will be powered by 6.0-liter GM small-block V8s that are based on the 7.0-liter LS7.R that powered the GT1 version. This reduction in displacement was achieved by shortening the crankshaft stroke from 3.875-inch to 3.32-inch. The diameter of the series-mandated intake air restrictors was decreased from 30.6 mm to 28.6 mm, with a corresponding reduction in engine output from 590 to 470 horsepower. A 5.5-liter production-based GM small-block V8 is currently under development and will be introduced at the start of the 2010 season. The Corvette Racing team is continuing its commitment to green racing with the use of E85R ethanol racing fuel.

While much of the hardware has changed, Corvette Racing’s roster of championship-winning drivers remains the same. Johnny O’Connell and Jan Magnussen will share the No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R, and Oliver Gavin and Olivier Beretta will drive the No. 4 Compuware Corvette C6. R. They will be joined by Antonio Garcia and Marcel Fassler at Petit Le Mans.

Corvette Racing also has the continued support of its long-time sponsors and technical partners. Compuware is the team’s primary sponsor, with Mobil 1 supplying low-friction lubricants and Michelin providing its world-class racing tires. Corvette Racing’s sponsors also include XM Satellite Radio, UAW-GM, Genuine Corvette Accessories, Bose, Motorola, PRS Guitars, and BBS.

“Compuware leads the world in application performance solutions, and partnering with Corvette Racing gives us another high-tech, high-performance and high-impact platform for communicating to our customers and prospects,” said Compuware Chairman and CEO Peter Karmanos, Jr. “The launch of the Corvette C6.R in GT2 is a great extension to our relationship with General Motors, Chevy and Corvette. We look forward to even more victories in the months ahead.”

The GT2-spec Corvettes were designed, built and tested on a compressed schedule. The program was approved and announced in September 2008, and construction of the first chassis began in early December. The first track test was conducted at Road Atlanta on April 8-9, followed by single-car tests in Elkhart Lake, Wis., and Sebring, Fla.

“The Corvette Racing team had to take on several challenges simultaneously to execute this program,” said Doug Fehan, Corvette Racing program manager. “We were preparing for our regular race season with the GT1 cars while designing the GT2 version. The cars were being built and tested in the midst of our preparations for Le Mans. The team was multi-tasking to the extreme, operating on a leaner budget and a faster timeline. It was a monumental effort to have these cars ready for the Mid-Ohio race.”

Advanced technology tools enabled Corvette Racing to meet the challenge. “With the short development schedule, we relied on ‘virtual’ design and computer simulation more than ever before,” said team manager Gary Pratt. “We made design, engineering and manufacturing simultaneous processes as much as possible. For example, while the first chassis was being built, we continued to run computer simulations on suspension geometry and refined the aerodynamics using CFD (computational fluid dynamics) because these areas didn’t have to be finalized until later in the production timeline. We have developed the capabilities to do finite element analysis and composite fabrication in-house, which has accelerated our design and production cycle.

“We’re not running for a championship this year, so we’re looking at the upcoming races as preparation for 2010,” Pratt said. “Our only testing from this point on will be at the races, and we’ll be doing it in the public eye. Certainly we hope to achieve the same level of success that we did in GT1, but the caliber of the competition we will face in GT2 is very high. When we started in GT1 in 1999, it took a while to win; now we have 10 years of experience that should help us to become competitive in a new category. Everyone at Corvette Racing is looking forward to the challenge.”

Fehan is confident but cautious about Corvette Racing’s prospects in the GT2 category: “In the limited testing we’ve done so far, we’ve been very impressed with the car’s durability, reliability and performance,” he said. “We’ll continue to focus on those three factors in the upcoming races. We view the rest of this year as a development cycle, and we believe that our experience as a team in preparation, race strategy, and pit stop execution should allow us to be competitive even if there is a slight performance disparity.”

The GT2 version of the Corvette C6.R will make its debut in the Acura Sports Car Challenge at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. The two-hour, 45-minute race is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. EDT on Saturday, August 8. ABC will televise the race tape-delayed at 2:30 p.m. EDT on Sunday, August 9.

- By: Kap Shah

We’re pretty sure you remember the SV 9 Competizione Corvette C6 (it left a lasting impression on us) that made its debut last month. Either way, we were really disappointed that SV Motor Company released only a couple of computer rendered images of the all-American Corvette C6 with a touch of Italian design.

Well, today we bring you a bunch of new images of the SV 9 Competizione Corvette C6, giving you a better look at SV’s latest creation in ‘real life.’

SV will produce 1,000 units of the 9 Competizione with prices starting at $99,995. Click here to learn more.

SV 9 Competizione Corvette C6 (Real Life):

- By: Kap Shah

Source: GT Spirit (via WCF)

SV Motor Company is putting the finishing touches on a new project known as the SV 9 Competizione. Ready to make its debut in the coming days, here is your first look at an all-American Corvette C6 with an Italian styled exterior and interior.

The new Italian-styled body is made of lightweight carbon fiber, helping with a weight reduction of 132 pounds to 3,085 lbs – providing a 50/50 front to rear weight distribution. Power comes from the Corvette’s LS3 that has been retuned to produce a total of 450-hp with a maximum torque of 445 lb-ft. 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4 seconds and a 12.0 in the quarter mile run. Performance has been enhanced by an upgraded braking system and suspension.

SV Motor Company is offering the 9 Competizione with 25 different exterior colors, four wheels choices and five interior trim choices.

Production of the SV 9 Competizione will be limited to 1,000 units with prices starting at $99,995.

SV 9 Competizione Corvette C6:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Corvette Blogger

GM has secretly released details of the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 – and we’re guessing that’s because making a big deal about a 638-hp supercar isn’t the brightest idea for the Detroit automaker in a time like this.

New for 2010, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 now gets Performance Traction Management technology, launch control, standard side air bags, Cashmere interior color, Torch Red exterior color and Competition Gray wheels.

Power still comes from the wonderful LS9 supercharged 6.2L V8 that cranks out 638-hp with a maximum torque of 604 lb-ft.

GM told its dealers that pricing for the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 now starts at $107,830. Take into account the $1,700 gas guzzler tax and the price goes up to $109,530, an increase of $2,910 over the 2009 Corvette ZR1.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2009 Chevrolet Corvettte ZR1:

Press Release:

2010 CORVETTE ZR1: PERFORMANCE TRACTION MANAGEMENT ENHANCES AN ALREADY WORLD-BEATING DRIVING EXPERIENCE

After taking on the world’s best supercars and proving a better value and performer by the global automotive press, the Corvette ZR1 returns for 2010 with new Performance Traction Management (PTM) technology. It is an advanced system that is part of a new Launch Control feature, which optimizes traction for greater and more consistent on-track performance.

The PTM system holds a predetermined engine speed while the driver pushes the throttle to the floor. That allows the driver to quickly release the clutch and the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. The system is capable of approaching a skilled driver’s best effort and repeats it consistently.

PTM also integrates the ZR1’s 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.

The new PTM technology is the newest element that affirms the Corvette ZR1 is an American supercar with the technology and engineering refinement to take on the world’s best – but at a much lower price.

The ZR1’s highlights include:

* LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 rated at 638 horsepower (476 kW), and 604 lb.-ft. of torque (819 Nm)
* Six-speed, close-ratio, race-proven manual transmission
* High-capacity dual-disc clutch
* Higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube
* Specific suspension tuning provides more than 1g cornering grip
* Twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels
* Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires – P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear – developed specifically for the ZR1
* Standard Brembo carbon-ceramic, drilled disc brake rotors – 15.5-inch-diameter (394-mm) in the front and 15-inch-diameter (380-mm) in the rear
* Blue-painted brake calipers
* Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension
* Wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with ZR1-specific dual ports
* Carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window – offering a view of the intercooler below it
* Carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, visible carbon-fiber weave
* ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard sections
* Specific gauge cluster with boost gauge (also displayed on the head-up display) and 220-mph (370 km/h) speedometer readout
* Curb weight of 3,333 pounds (1,512 kg).

The specialized components of the new ZR1 work harmoniously to deliver the most powerful and fastest automobile ever produced by General Motors. It has a top speed of 205 mph (330 km/h).

In addition to PTM, the following features are also new for 2010:

* Standard launch control
* Available Torch Red exterior color
* Available Cashmere interior color
* Available Competition Gray wheels.

Supercharged LS9 engine

The supercharged LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power behind the ZR1’s performance. A sixth-generation Eaton supercharger helps the LS9 make big power and torque at lower rpm and carries it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm, as it pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band – the area where supercharged performance tends to diminish. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enable the engine’s confident high-rpm performance.

The Roots-type supercharger uses a unique, four-lobe rotor design. It is augmented with an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature for maximum performance.

The LS9 is hand-assembled at GM’s Performance Build Center in Wixom, Mich., and incorporates special processes typically seen in racing engines to produce a highly refined and precise product. For example, cast iron cylinder liners are inserted in the aluminum block and are finish-bored and honed with a deck plate installed. The deck plate simulates the pressure and minute dimensional variances applied to the block when the cylinder heads are installed. This ensures a higher degree of accuracy that promotes maximum cylinder head sealing, piston ring fit and overall engine performance.

Transmission and axle

The LS9 engine is backed by an upgraded, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch pedal effort. ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed is achieved in sixth gear.

As the term implies, the twin-disc clutch system employs a pair of discs, which spreads out the engine’s torque load over a wider area. This enables tremendous clamping power when the clutch is engaged, while also helping to dissipate heat better and extend the life of the clutch.

The twin-disc clutch system also contributes to the ZR1’s exceptional driving quality, with smooth and easy shifting. The twin-disc system’s design allows higher torque capacity with inertia and pedal effort similar to the Corvette Z06. It enables a 25-percent reduction in inertia, thanks to smaller, 260-mm plates; the Corvette Z06’s uses a 290-mm single-disc system.

The rear axle also is stronger in the ZR1 and features asymmetrical axle-shaft diameters – 33 mm on the right side and 40 mm on the left – that were developed after careful testing to provide optimal torque management. The axles are mounted on a more horizontal plane that correlates with the wider width of the rear wheels and tires.

Ride and handling

The ZR1 is built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and features similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Where the ZR1 differs is the suspension tuning, which was optimized for the car’s steamroller-wide front and rear tires.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard and tuned specifically for the ZR1. The system’s ability to deliver a compliant ride with nearly instantaneous damping adjustments enabled engineers to develop a surprisingly supple ride quality in a supercar that still delivers cornering grip of more than 1g.

From a high-performance perspective, Magnetic Selective Ride Control helps the rear axle remain planted during launch for smooth, hop-free acceleration. It also helps suppress axle movement when cornering on broken or uneven pavement.

Brakes, wheels and tires

Commensurate with the ZR1’s engine output is the braking system, which is headlined by Brembo carbon-ceramic brake rotors. Found on only a few exotics and more expensive supercars, carbon-ceramic brake rotors are made of a carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic silicon carbide material . The advantages of these rotors are low mass and resistance to wear and heat. In fact, the rotors should never show corrosion or require replacement for the life of the vehicle, when used in normal driving.

The vented and cross-drilled rotors on the ZR1 measure 15.5 inches (394 mm) in diameter in the front and 15 inches (380 mm) in diameter in the rear – making them among the largest carbon-ceramic rotors available on any production vehicle.

Clamping down on the high-tech rotors are six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, each painted a ZR1-exclusive blue. The brakes are visible through the ZR1’s exclusive wheels: 20-spoke alloy rims that measure 19 x 10 inches in diameter in the front and 20 x 12 inches in the rear. A Sterling Silver paint finish is standard; chrome and Competition Gray versions are optional. The wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires developed specifically for the ZR1, measuring P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear.

Exclusive exterior

The ZR1 is instantly recognizable, with perhaps the most identifiable feature a raised, all-carbon-fiber hood that incorporates a clear, polycarbonate window. The window provides a view of the top of the engine’s intercooler, with the legend “LS9 SUPERCHARGED” embossed on the left and right sides, and an engine cover with the Corvette crossed flags logo debossed at the front.

The underside of the hood has a visible carbon-fiber-weave. Visible carbon-fiber is used on the roof, roof bow, rocker molding and front splitter. These exterior components are protected by a specially developed glossy, UV-resistant clear coat that resists yellowing and wear.

Widened, carbon-fiber front fenders with specific, dual lower ports; and a full-width, body-color rear spoiler incorporating the center high-mounted stop lamp are also unique to the ZR1. All of the exterior features were developed to enhance high-speed stability and driver control.

Interior details
The ZR1 interior builds on the brand’s dual-cockpit heritage, with high-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality that support the premium-quality performance. The ZR1 cabin differs from the Corvette and Corvette Z06 with the following:

* ZR1-logo sill plates
* ZR1-logo headrest embroidery
* Specific gauge cluster with “ZR1″ logo on the tachometer and a 220-mph (370 km/h) readout on the speedometer
* Boost gauge added to the instrument cluster and head-up display.

The standard ZR1 (RPO 1ZR) comes with accoutrements based on the Z06, including lightweight seats and lightweight content. The uplevel interior package (RPO 3ZR) includes power-adjustable, heated and leather-trimmed sport seats (embroidered with the ZR1 logo); Bose premium audio system; navigation system; Bluetooth connectivity; power telescoping steering column; custom leather-wrapped interior available in four colors; and more.

By the numbers

In addition to the exterior cues and powertrain, ZR1 models are distinguished from other Corvette models by their vehicle identification number, or VIN. Each carries a unique, identifying VIN digit, as well as a sequential build number. This makes it easy to determine the build number of a specific car – information treasured by enthusiasts and collectors. For example, a ZR1 with a VIN ending in “0150″ would indicate it is the 150th ZR1 built for the model year.

- By: Mo Eladawy

Source: GM (via Corvette Blogger)

Along with the pricing details for the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport, GM announced today that the 1,500,000th Corvette has rolled of the line at its Bowling Green Assembly.

“The 1.5 millionth Corvette is a great example of how Chevy is America’s Brand,” Karen Rafferty, Chevrolet Product Marketing Director, said. “For nearly 60 years we have built America’s Sports Car and this milestone is a solid proof point.”

The 1.5 million Corvette, produced on May 28, is a white convertible 3LT with a red interior and a black top.

The first Corvette rolled off the line on June 30, 1953.

1,500,000th Chevrolet Corvette:

- By: Mo Eladawy

We first heard pricing details on the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport earlier this month; however, GM decided to release the official press release along with some additional high-res photos today. What took them so long? Who knows?

“The Corvette Grand Sport achieves a 0 – 60 time in less than four seconds, pulls 1.0g on the skid pad and still boasts an impressive 26 highway mpg,” Karen Rafferty, Chevrolet Product Marketing Director, said. “These numbers are unmatched by any of Corvette’s competitors.”

Refresher: Power comes from a LS3 6.2L V8 producing 430-hp and a peak torque of 424 lb-ft when mated to a standard exhaust system. Output is increased to 436-hp when mated to the optional two-mode exhaust system. The model will also feature widebody styling along with a racing-bred suspension. The Corvette Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages.

Click through for the updated high-res image gallery.

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport:

- By: Mo Eladawy

Even though the ‘New GM’ will be forced to focus on producing fuel-efficient vehicles, it won’t abandon efforts to give its Corvette enthusiasts the much loved rear-wheel-drive, V8 power they have come to love.

“My wonderful baby is my 2005 Corvette coupe,” CEO Fritz Henderson said in his first online chat after filing GM’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. “We have more in store for the future and this iconic brand will retain its powerful place within the new GM.”

Nonetheless, GM’s plans to offer fuel-efficient vehicles puts some hope back into the future of American cars competing with Toyotas and Hondas. Henderson confirmed that a 4-cylinder turbo for the new 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be offered shortly after the start of production.

The 2010 Buick LaCrosse (which is the third most anticipated future GM vehicle according to you guys), will go on sale later this summer with a 255-hp 3.0L V6 and an optional 280-hp 3.6L V6. Henderson said that GM has plans to introduce a “performance 4-cylinder Ecotec” shortly after the 2010 LaCrosse enters production.

The Buick Invicta concept, which is the basis for the new LaCrosse, was powered by Buick’s first direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 250-hp and 220 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

That 4-cylinder turbo is expected to compete with Ford’s line of EcoBoost V6 engines, which are offered as V8 alternatives. GM’s 1.4L turbo 4-cylinder salted for the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is expected to be pillar of GM’s fuel-economy plans.

As for the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP (which I’m driving this week), Henderson simply said that the model will not live on as a Chevrolet or as an entry-level Cadillac. There is no room for the car in the Buick lineup as well.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Motor Trend

According to Dave Salvatore of Kerbeck Corvette the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport will start at $55,720 for the coupe and $59,530 for the convertible. As the folks over at CorvetteBlogger point out, that’s about $6,205 more than the base coupe and $5,360 for the base convertible.

Refresher: Power comes from a LS3 6.2L V8 producing 430-hp and a peak torque of 424 lb-ft when mated to a standard exhaust system. Output is increased to 436-hp when mated to the optional two-mode exhaust system. The model will also feature widebody styling along with a racing-bred suspension. The Corvette Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages.

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Source: CorvetteBlogger

Many are worried how much say the U.S. government will have in future General Motors’ products since it will be a major shareholder of the new restructured company. Speaking at the Automotive Press Association luncheon, Bob Lutz confirmed that GM will still be making vehicles like the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, Corvettes and full-size pickup trucks alongside the Chevy Volt and future hybrid models.

Lutz said that the new GM will ditch a lot of huge baggage and will emerge as a “smaller but leaner” company that will remain “a powerhouse” that is very profitable.

Lutz said that production of all the Chevrolet Volt-type vehicles, including the Opel Ampera, will take place in Michigan.

So hopefully, if GM files for bankruptcy on Monday, the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible and the Cadillac CTS Coupe will still make it to the market. Speaking of the CTS Coupe, Lutz said that the car had even impressed Obama’s auto task force. He said the auto task force members were asking when the CTS Coupe is going on sale and how much it would cost.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Inside Line

This isn’t the first time Geiger Cars has taken on the Chevrolet Corvette Z06; however, this time around instead of stopping at 592-hp, Geiger decided to take the Z06 all the way up to an eye watering 890-hp.

“Only a madman would want to increase the output of this fast car.” says Geiger. Well, founder Karl Geiger is that madman.

The massive amounts of extra power comes from Gieger’s Bi-Turbo package that takes the displacement up to 7.6L and adds two high-performance turbochargers. Maximum torque comes in at 693 lb-ft while top speed comes in at 220 mph. Geiger also added larger and more powerful brakes for some much needed stopping power.

Oh, and it’s obnoxiously lime-green.

Make the jump for the high-res image gallery.

Geiger Cars Bi-Turbo Chevrolet Corvette Z06:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor