The Corvette has seen transformative leaps in its eighth generation, but none quite like this. Building on the performance pedigree of the ZR1, Chevrolet now unveils the most powerful, most advanced, and most electrifying Corvette ever made: the 2026 Corvette ZR1X. With 1,250 combined horsepower and an electrified all-wheel-drive system, the ZR1X doesn’t just push boundaries — it obliterates them.

At the heart of the ZR1X is the LT7 5.5L twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 found in the ZR1, hand-built and derived from the racing-bred LT6. On its own, it generates a staggering 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Key technologies include dual 76mm turbochargers, a “maniturbo” integrated manifold/turbo setup for lightning-quick boost response, and dynamic anti-lag systems that keep the turbos spooled even off-throttle.

Power at the front comes from a compact yet potent 186 horsepower electric motor driving the front axle. Drawing from tech pioneered in the E-Ray, the ZR1X features a 1.9 kWh battery pack mounted low within the chassis spine. While the capacity matches E-Ray’s, usable energy has been increased for longer, more intense track sessions. The electric front axle adds 145 lb-ft of torque, is active up to 160 mph, and seamlessly disengages at higher speeds.

Together, the hybrid system delivers 1,250 horsepower and 973 lb-ft of torque, Chevrolet estimates that this leap in power will launch the ZR1X from 0–60 mph in under 2 seconds and through the quarter-mile in less than 9 seconds with trap speeds exceeding 150 mph. No plug-in is needed; all energy is recovered via regenerative braking and deceleration.

To manage that power, ZR1X debuts an advanced AWD control strategy derived from E-Ray, fine-tuned specifically for the LT7’s aggressive performance. Three electrified drive modes tailor the car’s response: Endurance Mode optimizes battery usage for long lapping sessions, Qualifying Mode unleashes peak power for best possible lap times, Push-to-Pass Mode delivers instant max output on demand. Also new is PTM Pro, which replaces traditional traction and stability control with advanced dynamic systems that include Regen Brake Torque Vectoring, Front Axle Pre-Control for maximum corner exit grip, and fully customizable Launch Control.

ZR1X isn’t just about speed, it’s built to stop and corner with authority. The new J59 braking system features Alcon 10-piston front and 6-piston rear calipers are the largest ever fitted to a Corvette clamping on massive 16.5-inch carbon-ceramic rotors. These brakes can generate 1.9 Gs of deceleration, tested under the extreme loads of track use.

From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with ZR1X in mind. This is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history, supporting the widest range of American sports cars and delivering world-class performance at every level. — Ken Morris, General Motors senior vice president —

Handling is equally advanced. ZR1X comes with Magnetic Ride Control, adaptive to drive mode, inputs, and road surface. The ZTK Performance Package adds stiffer springs and sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires, while the Carbon Aero Package delivers up to 1,200 pounds of downforce with aggressive dive planes, a functional hood gurney, and a towering rear wing.

Inside, ZR1X features the redesigned 2026 Corvette cabin we got a peak at recently: a new tri-screen layout, upgraded materials, and integrated performance telemetry. Offered in both coupe and retractable hardtop variants, the ZR1X is built alongside every Corvette at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly Plant, with every LT7 hand-assembled by skilled engine builders at the Performance Build Center.

With the ZR1 and ZR1X, Chevrolet now fields the most powerful American performance car lineup in history. Pricing and availability details will follow as production nears, but the message is clear: ZR1X isn’t just another C8 Corvette. It’s America’s first true hypercar.