The Chevrolet Corvette renewed its status as an American dream car in 2020, when the eighth-generation model debuted with a mid-engine layout and an all-new look. Since then, the C8 has repeatedly posed a serious challenge to Europe’s best sports cars at a serious discount — something that This applies in particular to the upcoming 1,064 hp ZR1 variant.
However, it may not have a chance to challenge the continent’s best on their home turf. A new report from GM Authority Claims that, unlike the Stingray, Z06And E-Ray variants, the new Corvette ZR1 will not be available in Europe.
When asked for comment, Chevy offered no concrete confirmation or denial. “We have shared that the Corvette ZR1 will be available in our North American and Middle Eastern markets,” spokesman Trevor Thompkins said. Road & RailIt is not clear whether this is a protection against the current situation or an indication of the plan for the future.
While GM Authority’s anonymous sources declined to elaborate on why the ZR1 won’t be making it across the Atlantic, Europe’s increasingly stringent emissions regulations scheduled to go into effect next year could be a contributing factor. The Z06 is already limited in Europe by a more restrictive exhaust that saps 34 hp and 21 lb-ft from its high-revving V-8; it’s certainly possible that GM decided it wasn’t worth the time and energy to develop a new, performance-sapping powertrain for the handful of ZR1s it would likely sell there.
Too bad for our friends across the pond, because the newest and most powerful Corvette ever is a hot monster. Motivated by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 that
With 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque, the ZR1 not only produces more power than any Corvette before it, it’s also the most powerful V-8 an American automaker has ever put in a production car.
And of course, it’s not just a straight-line machine; the top-spec ‘Vette is also built to shred corners. The ZR1 can also be equipped with a high-downforce rear spoiler and other track-focused bits as part of the ZTK package. Other goodies include a carbon fiber roof, optional lightweight wheels and ZR1 badging everywhere — as well as the return of a split-back window for the first time on a Corvette since the 1963 C2 Stingray.
Too bad about your bad luck, Europe.
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