Spy shots and video of the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray: the hybrid Corvette is on its way out
A hybrid version of the C8 Chevrolet Corvette has been rumored for years, and now it looks like one is almost here.
Our latest spy shots and video show a fleet of prototypes believed to be for a new hybrid Corvette called the Corvette E-Ray, for which a trademark was spotted dating back to 2015.
The fleet consists of five prototypes, covering Corvette coupe and convertible body styles and left- and right-hand drive layouts. Chevrolet engineers also prepared a Corvette Stingray and Acura NSX for benchmarking.
The fact that the NSX, a hybrid supercar with dual motors up front and a V-6/single motor combo in the rear, is the only rival model used for benchmarking points to the hybrid Corvette being tested here. Recall, Chevrolet also used the Audi R8, Ferrari 458 Italia, and Porsche 911 Carrera S when developing the Stingray.
Looking inside the prototype, the instrument cluster is also covered. This is probably to hide new details specific to the hybrid Corvette.
We can also see that the prototype features a new wide-body design, which will be shared with the Corvette Z06 being tested and will be unveiled on October 26. The hybrid Corvette will likely debut in 2022 as a 2023 model. It is expected to replace the Grand Sport grade of the existing C7 Corvette.
It is not clear what kind of powertrain the hybrid Corvette will have, but rumors suggest that a single motor will drive the front axle and a Stingray 6.2-liter V-8 will drive the rear axle. Maximum output is expected to be between 600 hp and 650 hp, and plug-in capability may be included.
A more powerful hybrid system with an electric motor also on the rear axle is expected to be available for a future Corvette Zora flagship.
Yes, more electrification is coming to the Corvette lineup. There are even plans to unveil an electric C8 Corvette, which President Joe Biden has mentioned its existence many times. Given that General Motors plans to have all light cars powered by electricity by 2035, it is possible that the final C9 Corvette will be exclusively electric.
