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2015 Corvette Z06 delivers faster lap times than 2013 Corvette ZR1

17 Jan 2014|3,895 views

The Chevy Corvette Z06 enters supercar territory with race proven design, advanced technologies and world class performance.

The LT4 engine was designed with a more efficient and compact supercharger - resulting in a power unit that is only 25mm taller - despite delivering almost 37 percent more horsepower and 40 percent more torque

At the heart is an all new 6.2-litre LT4 supercharged V8 engine that will deliver no less than 625bhp and 861Nm of torque.

It will be linked to either a seven-speed manual with Active Rev Match or a 8L90 new eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters to enhance both performance and efficiency.

Extensive use of aluminum and magnesium allows the 8L90 to be 4kg lighter than the six-speeder in the predecessor. Along with design features that reduce friction, the 8L90 is expected to contribute up to five percent greater efficiency, when compared with a six-speed automatic.

The stiffer design of the aluminum frame allows the Corvette Z06 to be offered with a removable carbon fibre roof panel for the first time. Even without the lightweight panels, the Corvette Z06 offers 60 percent more structural rigidity than its predecessor.

To deliver optimum grip levels, the Z06 is fitted with larger Michelin tyres. The P285/30ZR19 front tyres are 1.5 inches wider while the 335/25ZR20 rear tyres are two inches wider than the Corvette Stingray. The fenders of the Z06 were extended by 56mm at the front, and 80mm at the rear to accommodate the wider tyres which are mounted on wider lightweight, spin-cast aluminum wheels.

The performance targets of the Z06 posed a challenge for the design team, which had to create a striking design that also contributed to increased capabilities

Additionally, a track-focused Z07 Performance Package adds unique components for true aerodynamic downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tyres for enhanced grip, and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance.

The cabin of the Corvette Z06 is distinguished from the Corvette Stingray by unique colour schemes that emphasises the driver-focused cockpit, and a unique flat-bottomed steering wheel.

The cabin offers two seating choices, a GT seat, for all-around comfort, or a Competition Sport seat with more aggressive side bolstering, for greater support during track activity.

The Z06 also benefits from interior details designed for high-performance driving, including a steel reinforced grab bar and soft touch materials on the edge of the console. All models feature a fully wrapped interior, where every surface is covered with premium, soft touch materials including Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fibre and micro-suede.

The new Corvette Z06 will be available in early 2015 and performance data will be announced closer to the start of production.

Chevrolet introduced the most track-capable Corvette in the brand's history via the 2015 Corvette Z06. It stretches the performance envelope for the Corvette nameplate with exceptional levels of aerodynamic downforce, more than 600bhp power delivery and a new high-performance eight-speed automatic gearbox - built upon the already credible Corvette Stingray.

At the heart is an all new 6.2-litre LT4 supercharged V8 engine that will deliver no less than 625bhp and 861Nm of torque.

It will be linked to either a seven-speed manual with Active Rev Match or a 8L90 new eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters to enhance both performance and efficiency.

Extensive use of aluminum and magnesium allows the 8L90 to be 4kg lighter than the six-speeder in the predecessor. Along with design features that reduce friction, the 8L90 is expected to contribute up to five percent greater efficiency, when compared with a six-speed automatic.

The stiffer design of the aluminum frame allows the Corvette Z06 to be offered with a removable carbon fibre roof panel for the first time. Even without the lightweight panels, the Corvette Z06 offers 60 percent more structural rigidity than its predecessor.

To deliver optimum grip levels, the Z06 is fitted with larger Michelin tyres. The P285/30ZR19 front tyres are 1.5 inches wider while the 335/25ZR20 rear tyres are two inches wider than the Corvette Stingray. The fenders of the Z06 were extended by 56mm at the front, and 80mm at the rear to accommodate the wider tyres which are mounted on wider lightweight, spin-cast aluminum wheels.

Additionally, a track-focused Z07 Performance Package adds unique components for true aerodynamic downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tyres for enhanced grip, and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance.

The cabin of the Corvette Z06 is distinguished from the Corvette Stingray by unique colour schemes that emphasises the driver-focused cockpit, and a unique flat-bottomed steering wheel.

The cabin offers two seating choices, a GT seat, for all-around comfort, or a Competition Sport seat with more aggressive side bolstering, for greater support during track activity.

The Z06 also benefits from interior details designed for high-performance driving, including a steel reinforced grab bar and soft touch materials on the edge of the console. All models feature a fully wrapped interior, where every surface is covered with premium, soft touch materials including Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fibre and micro-suede.

The new Corvette Z06 will be available in early 2015 and performance data will be announced closer to the start of production.