Automotive
2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1: The Fastest, Most Powerful Corvette Ever
Chevrolet has unleashed the unthinkable in the Corvette ZR1. The King of the Hill returns with the most powerful V8 ever produced in America from an auto manufacturer, mind-bending specs, and iconic design to challenge the world’s best supercars in both coupe and convertible variants.
“The team that revolutionized Corvette with a mid-engine architecture took on another challenge: take ZR1 to the next level,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Chevrolet. “Corvette ZR1 is about pushing the envelope with raw power and cutting-edge innovation. From Stingray, to Z06, E-Ray, and now ZR1, the Corvette family continues to elevate with each new iteration — and challenge the best in the world.”
Pushing the boundaries of the Small Block
ZR1’s 5.5L LT7 twin-turbocharged DOHC V8 engine starts with the same architecture as Z06’s LT6, the most powerful naturally aspirated production V8 engine ever, and takes it to the next level with twin turbochargers — the first time ever for a factory Corvette.
Dubbed the “Small Block Gemini” architecture, the LT6 program was only the beginning as engineers dual-pathed a goal: to create massive power, capability, and character from naturally aspirated and turbocharged flat plane crankshaft twin engines. With these goals in mind, engineers did not create an LT6 with turbochargers, but instead changed and optimized virtually every system for a boosted application.
Corvette ZR1’s 5.5L, twin-turbo DOHC flat-plane crank LT7 engine is the result of engineering prowess and pushing the boundaries of what the engine architecture can do. Thoughtful planning produced the best performance from forced induction, married with the 5.5L flat-plane engine architecture.
Unique to the 5.5L LT7 twin-turbo V8:
- • Head castings with unique ports and a larger combustion chamber
- • Valve train timing and lift profile optimized for forced induction with higher exhaust temp enabling exhaust valves
- • Completely new intake system tuned for twin turbochargers
- • CNC machined combustion chamber, exhaust, and intake ports specific to the LT7
- • Dual, ported shroud, ball bearing, mono-scroll (76 mm) turbochargers integrated with the exhaust manifold to reduce the volume and distance from the exhaust valve to the turbine wheel for quick response with electronic wastegates
- • Intelligent anti-lag engine calibration techniques specifically for ZR1 that adapt and react to driving style
The LT7 engine also builds upon this engine architecture with:
- • Added block and head machining to support turbo cooling and oiling
- • Counterweight changes to account for a unique piston, and unique connecting rod for the crank train
- • A secondary port fuel injection system added to deliver the needed additional fuel to support the engine’s massive output
To support the dramatic increase in power from the LT7 engine, engineers made numerous changes to the Corvette ZR1’s eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, including:
- • Inner and outer input shaft upgrades
- • Increased gear capacity with strength increased via shot peening for all gears
- • Final drive refinements
- • Oil management to support increased vehicle longitudinal and lateral capability
- • Increased control valves to accommodate the higher required clutch clamp load for LT7
The LT7 engine is purpose-built to accomplish its four-figure horsepower mission with no compromises in componentry and maintains the rev-happy character that is the heart of the Small Block Gemini engine family. It will be hand-assembled by the master engine builders at the Performance Build Center, part of the Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky.
Enabling speed with ease
Purposeful aerodynamics provide the most downforce ever from a Corvette with over 1,200 pounds (544 kg) at top speed.
The Corvette ZR1 offers speed on tap like no Corvette before it. Two distinct setups, complete with Magnetic Ride dampers, accomplish this. The standard Corvette ZR1 chassis arrives with a sleeker body with lower drag and a small spoiler with customer-adjustable short and tall wickers. It also includes a standard carbon-fiber front splitter, rocker moldings, side intake with integrated brake cooling, and front underwing with stall gurney deflectors. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires wrap 20-inch front, and 21-inch rear wheels. The standard chassis blends the best of on-road comfort and track capability with this setup.
Corvette ZR1 dispatches the world’s toughest tracks with ease, not only with the power from the 5.5L LT7 engine, but also due to additional, specific aerodynamic and cooling changes found throughout the car. These include:
- • Flow-through hood: Air enters the front grille, flows through the intercooler heat exchanger, and exits the hood to increase front downforce and cool charged air temperatures.
- • Carbon fiber side profile air ducts: Clean, cool air is funneled through ducts, which are cleanly integrated into the signature wishbone bezel behind the cabin doors to cool the rear brakes through an intricately designed system that doesn’t impact rear wheel travel.
- • Unique fresh air intake ducts: Carbon fiber inlets located on top of the coupe rear hatch ingest air to cool the turbo compressor inlet air temperatures.
Corvette ZR1’s optional ZTK performance package unlocks a true track weapon. Notably, the ZTK package adds an aggressive, high-downforce rear wing, front dive planes, and a tall hood Gurney lip – all constructed from woven carbon fiber. Underneath, underbody strakes replace the standard front underwing stall Gurney to increase front downforce. The suspension tuning included in the ZTK package incorporates stiffer springs and adds Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires. Amid testing and development, the ZR1 tackled some the world’s most demanding racetracks, including the Nürburgring, Road Atlanta, and Virginia International Raceway.
Carbon Aero, featuring all aerodynamic equipment from the ZTK package, is available on the standard ZR1 chassis as well.
“We went into the ZR1 program with lofty goals, but even our first development tests on-track showed the teams were already exceeding them,” said Tadge Juechter, executive chief engineer, Corvette. “As we worked to develop this car, we continued to leap past expectations, and we knew we had a special Corvette on our hands.”
Controlling ZR1’s high performance is a new brake system. The brake package uses a revolutionary carbon ceramic rotor manufacturing technology to yield increased durability and reduced brake component temperatures. Front rotors measure 15.7 inches (400mm) in diameter and rear rotors 15.4 inches (390mm) in diameter — the front rotors are the largest ever equipped on Corvette. In just 24.5 seconds, the Corvette ZR1 goes from 80-200 mph and back to 80 mph (129 – 321 – 129 kph) — 22% quicker than the C7 Corvette ZR1, and 53% quicker than the C6 Corvette ZR1.
Designed for the split window’s return
For ZR1, function and form quickly took hold to create an instant icon — an icon worthy of the historic split window’s return.
“We didn’t approach this decision lightly, we know this is a beloved element from Corvette’s history,” said Phil Zak, executive design director, Chevrolet. “Not only does this element provide function, but we were able to integrate passionate design into the form and do it in a way that paid homage to Corvette’s history. ZR1 felt like the right time to bring the split-window back.”
Last seen on the C2-generation Corvette, and quietly previewed on the Corvette Z06 GT3.R race car, the split-window style capitalizes on the design statement that is Corvette ZR1. While serving as a statement piece, this carbon fiber “spine” between the two rear windows, available in exposed weave or body color, provides increased heat extraction from the engine compartment, working in parallel with numerous other cooling elements throughout ZR1.
The teams worked to elevate the striking design first revealed with the eighth-generation Corvette Stingray and accentuate lines that evoke the car’s sense of motion — but the design’s function also helps it perform. Teams looked at every component of Corvette ZR1 to ensure cooling and aerodynamics remained top of mind, and any change accomplished the car’s mission: performance.
Additional changes include:
- • A carbon fiber roof to reduce mass and lower the center of gravity for both coupe and convertible
- • Unique aluminum wheel design available in four finishes, including Edge Blue — an homage to ZR1’s signature color cue
- • Optional new carbon-fiber wheel design, exclusive to ZR1, to further reduce mass
- • LT7 engine intake finished in Edge Blue — delivering an engine that looks as good as it performs
The Corvette ZR1’s cockpit dials up the attention to detail, notably with unique ZR1 badging found on an interior plaque, the sill plates and steering wheel. A new finishing stitch pattern for the doors, specific to ZR1, is available on the 3LZ trim. A boost gauge is also present, denoting the first factory turbocharged Corvette in the nameplate’s history.
Providing further choice to customers, the Corvette ZR1 will provide a roster of customization between exterior and interior colors. Shared with the 2025 Corvette lineup, new colors such as Competition Yellow, Hysteria Purple, and Sebring Orange headline updates. The latter recalls a fan-favorite hue from the previous C7-generation Corvette ZR1.
Inside, a new Habanero interior is available, as is a Blue Stitch option. Various full-length racing stripes, brake caliper colors, including an exclusive blue for the calipers, seat belt colors and more will also be available.
King of the Hill coming next year
Corvette ZR1 will enter production in 2025 and will be built at General Motors’ Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky. It joins Corvette Stingray, Corvette Z06 and Corvette E-Ray to continue elevating the Corvette family. Further details on price and availability will be shared closer to production.
Cross flags closers:
- • On its first lap at the Milford Proving Ground’s MRC test track, the new ZR1 clocked a faster peak speed than the production C7 ZR1.
- • Engineers clocked a sub-10-second quarter-mile time on the Corvette ZR1’s first launch.
- • All four test drivers clocked over 200 mph (321 kph) peak speed on their very first laps at the Nürburgring with ease.
- • LT7 produces more power than two LS7 engines, the legendary 7.0L V-8 from the sixth-generation Corvette Z06 – akin to one LS7 engine per bank.
The Corvette ZR1 adds to the Chevrolet’s line up of performance cars under the Corvette brand including the Stingray, Z06, and recently available on to order; the E-ray. The Middle East is renowned globally for its appreciation of fast, powerful, beautiful sports cars and the arrival of the ZR1 will take this passion stratospheric.
Automotive
AW Rostamani Group and e& Sign Partnership to Drive EV Adoption Across the UAE
AW Rostamani Group (AWR), one of the UAE’s leading family business groups whose automotive vertical has been servicing consumers’ mobility needs for more than 50 years, and Charge&go, the electric mobility subsidiary of e& have joined forces to drive the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the UAE. Signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the second day of GITEX 2024, the world’s largest technology event, the partnership aims to support the UAE government’s ambitions to accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility in the UAE.
Aligning with the global sustainability agenda, this strategic partnership showcases AWR Group’s efforts to address the perceived barrier of ‘range anxiety’ by making EV ownership more convenient for its existing customers and offering an incentive to those considering buying an EV vehicle. This strategic move builds on the Group’s introduction of premium electric mobility brand ZEEKR to the UAE earlier this year, expanding consumer choice in the country’s growing EV segment. The collaboration represents a shared vision towards easing charging-related concerns and establishing an optimal EV adoption journey.
Under this partnership, AWR Group customers will benefit from exclusive EV charging benefits, bundled packages, and access to Charge&go’s extensive network of charging stations across the UAE. To further enhance the EV experience, Charge&go will install charging stations at various properties under the AWR Properties portfolio, including showrooms, offering customers convenient charging solutions and a seamless EV experience.
Commenting on the partnership, Mahesh Rohra, Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at AWR Group stated: “By listening to our customers, we understand that a key barrier to EV adoption is the availability of a comprehensive charging infrastructure. Through this partnership with Charge&go, we’re addressing this perceived concern head-on, making EV ownership more convenient and accessible for our customers. This exciting collaboration aligns with AWR Group’s ongoing commitment to sustainable mobility, contributing to a greener future for the UAE and supporting the nation’s zero-emission goals.”
Muammar AlRukhaimi, Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Services Holding, said: “Our collaboration with AWR Group marks a strategic step in making electric vehicle ownership more appealing in the UAE. By expanding the charging infrastructure and delivering exclusive customer benefits, we’re breaking down the barriers to EV adoption and driving the nation’s transition toward a more sustainable, eco-friendly future.”
Together, AWR Group and e& are committed to revolutionising the UAE’s electric mobility industry, providing a seamless customer experience to drive EV adoption.
Automotive
smart and AW Rostamani Group Partner to Launch Premium Electric Vehicles in the UAE
smart, the iconic premium intelligent all-electric auto brand, has made a bold entry into the UAE market in partnership with AW Rostamani Group, one of the UAE’s leading family business groups whose automotive vertical has been servicing UAE consumers’ mobility needs for more than 50 years. The highly anticipated launch event took place on Monday 21st October 2024 at the prestigious Armani Hotel, Dubai, against the impressive backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.
The launch event is a key pillar of smart‘s global flagship brand introduction, establishing “open your mind” as its claim. By introducing a range of cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs), smart and AW Rostamani Group aim to redefine the future of driving in the region, highlighting what premium means in the EV space with a key focus on modern, sustainable engineering, and exceptional customer experience.
The debut of the smart #1 and smart #3 models at the event is aligned with smart’s core values of “contemporary premium,” “mindful technology,” and “inspirational co-creation.” These brand fundamentals are embodied through the exquisite features of the EV lineup and the premium customer experience. The smart #1 and #3 models offer three trims: Pro+, Premium, and Brabus, the latter featuring performance enhancements such as the Brabus #3’s 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds.
The smart #1 is a sport utility vehicle with a spacious, high-tech interior, while the smart #3 is a sport-utility coupe with a striking shark-nose design and sporty curves. Both models come in a variety of colours, allowing customers to enjoy the sophistication of the Brabus trim.
The strategic partnership with AW Rostamani Group, augmented by the combined strengths of Mercedes-Benz and Geely, marks an exciting chapter as smart brings these trendsetting EVs to a country that is diverse and embraces both heritage and innovation, signifying a step towards the UAE’s vision of sustainable, zero-emission mobility. This presents a unique opportunity for existing Mercedes owners in UAE to complement their existing vehicles with the new product range from smart.
Michel Ayat, CEO of AWR Automotive, stated, “We are thrilled to bring smart to the UAE market at such a pivotal time for sustainable mobility. Through our partnership, we are aligning smart’s slogan “open your mind” with the UAE’s green initiatives. Our shared vision of contemporary premium and mindful technology ensures that our customers experience unparalleled sleek modern design and sustainability, redefining their expectations for electric vehicles in the UAE.”
Yen Fong Raad, GM of smart Mobility at AWR, added: “The smart brand has a rich heritage, coupled with the combined strengths of Mercedes Benz and Geely Group, we are positioned to take the UAE market by storm. With AW Rostamani Group’s decades of success in automotive leadership in the UAE market where diversity, culture, innovation and businesses thrive, the stars have aligned for us to open our mind to greater heights together.”
Mandy Zhang, Global CMO of smart Automobile, remarked: “smart is on a drive to achieve new heights of development. ‘open your mind’ is more than just a brand claim – it’s a philosophy that guides every innovation and decision. Launching the smart #1 and #3 in Dubai, where special heritage meets cutting-edge technology, mirrors our vision perfectly. We look forward to working with AW Rostamani to help transform urban lifestyles for our customers with creativity, sustainability, and like Dubai’s architecture, a continuous push towards new heights of excellence and innovation.”
As electric vehicles continue to gain traction in the UAE, smart and AWR Group are poised to accelerate the movement towards UAE’s vision for net zero emission by 2050 as well as AW Rostamani Group’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework.
Automotive
MG Motor Prepares for Global and Regional Premieres with Three Model Launches
MG Motor Middle East has announced the British-born brand’s plan to launch three new models in the Middle East during the Jeddah International Motor Show. As the Kingdom’s premier automotive event draws near, and as MG continues to celebrate its centenary this year, the brand is preparing to further strengthen its presence and impact with a display of 15 of its latest models, one of which will be a global premiere with the other set for a regional unveiling.
Held at the Jeddah Superdome from October 29th to November 2nd, the motor show serves as a pivotal platform for automotive brands to engage with industry leaders, potential customers, and media representatives. MG’s participation in this prestigious event underscores the brand’s commitment to the Saudi Arabian market, which remains a crucial driver in the brand’s ongoing regional expansion.
Tom Lee, Managing Director of MG Motor Middle East, commented: “The Jeddah International Motor Show is one of the most important automotive events in the region, and MG’s participation reflects our dedication to the Saudi market and our wider vision for growth across the Middle East. We are excited to present a diverse line-up of models that exemplify our commitment to innovation, performance, and customer satisfaction.”
This year’s motor show will see MG Motor offer visitors a close look at a wide array of vehicles, from electric and hybrid options to fuel-efficient sedans and robust SUVs. With the Saudi market continuing to embrace the latest in automotive technology, MG is well-positioned to highlight its cutting-edge advancements, including electric mobility, advanced safety features, and the integration of the latest infotainment systems.
With Saudi Arabia’s automotive industry rapidly evolving, MG Motor remains at the forefront of this transformation. The company’s participation in the Jeddah International Motor Show aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals, which emphasise the importance of innovation, sustainability, and future-forward technology within the local automotive landscape. Building on the strong presence MG has in the region, the brand’s display is set to create excitement and anticipation during The Jeddah International Motor Show, which will offer visitors an exclusive chance to witness MG’s progress and future vision firsthand.
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