Seventy-eight years later, the Chevy Corvette will join the world of electrification with the “E-Ray,” a hybrid sports car that accelerates from 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds, making it the Fastest production Corvette ever.
Chevrolet introduced the new model on Tuesday, 70 years to the day the Corvette made its world debut on Jan. 17, 1953, at the Waldorf Astoria in midtown Manhattan (GM did not invite the Hispanic press).
Its naturally aspirated 6.2L LT2 small-block V8 engine is paired with an electric motor that produces a combined output of 655 horsepower and 595 pound-feet of torque, with a 1.9 kWh battery pack that ranks among the seating.
The E-Ray’s 1.9 kWh battery is charged by regenerative braking and coast driving, as well as during normal driving. Selecting the Charge+ function also maximizes the state of charge of the battery.
Chevrolet says the E-Ray pulls off a quarter-mile sprint in 10.5 seconds.
Corvette product marketing manager Harlan Charles said the E-Ray will not dampen demand for the Stingray model currently on sale.
In fact, the E-Ray will likely appeal to drivers looking for a grand touring experience similar to what Porsche offers in its 911.
There are six riding modes (tour, sport, track, weather, my mode and Z-mode) as well as “stealth” and “shuttle” modes that allow the E-Ray to function 100% like an electric vehicle.
The E-Ray can travel quietly for several miles at speeds up to 45mph before the V8 engine kicks in. Transport mode operates at speeds less than 15 mph and is not designed for public roads.
E-Ray customers can choose from 14 exterior colors, including new shades like “Riptide Blue”, “Cacti” and “Pearl Nickel”.
The five-spoke twisted star design on the light-alloy wheels is unique to the car. Customers have even more interior color, upholstery and seating options in the E-Ray.
The E-Ray is 3.6 inches wider than the Stingray, and its frunky clearance isn’t affected by the electric motor, which sits above the front axle.
According to the manufacturer, it promised to offer 30 fully electric vehicles worldwide by the middle of the decade. At least 40% of GM’s US models will run on batteries by the end of 2025,
The $104,295 E-Ray will be available as a coupe or hardtop convertible, and will go into production later this year at the Bowling Green Assembly facility in Kentucky.
