DETROIT — General Motors has officially unveiled a new high-performance hybrid option in its Corvette lineup, the 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, regarded as a “hypercar”. This announcement was made on Tuesday, showcasing an upgrade to the Corvette E-Ray hybrid, which debuted in 2023. The ZR1X delivers performance metrics comparable to the existing Corvette ZR1, utilizing a twin-turbo V-8 engine but achieving quicker acceleration, thanks to innovative electrification technologies.
“It is the most advanced Corvette we’ve ever produced. America’s true hypercar has arrived,” declared Megan Dalley, Corvette marketing manager, at a media event. “We are putting the world on notice with this car, showing what Corvette and America’s true supercar is capable of.” Hypercars are recognized as superior to supercars in terms of performance features such as speed and acceleration, including impressive 0-60 mph times.
According to GM, the ZR1X boasts a top speed of 233 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in under two seconds. The vehicle’s LT7 twin-turbo V-8 engine, shared with the ZR1 models, produces a remarkable 1,064 horsepower and 828 foot-pounds of torque. Additionally, an electric axle enhances its performance, providing all-wheel drive along with an extra 186 horsepower and 145 foot-pounds of torque.
“It brings performance, electrification, and all-wheel drive to further enhance the unthinkable ZR1,” stated Josh Holder, Corvette chief engineer. “It brings learnings from the ZR1 and the E-Ray, and combines them to create an unbelievable driving experience.”
With the introduction of the ZR1X, GM expands the Corvette range to five distinct models, marking the most extensive lineup since the car’s inception in 1953. This model is a key component of GM’s strategy to cultivate a lucrative “Corvette family,” which spans from the more accessible Corvette Stingray, priced around $70,000, to the ZR1, which can exceed $200,000. “Corvette is a very profitable vehicle for the company, and we continue to be the pinnacle of performance,” Dalley noted.