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New Corvette E-Ray with hybrid eAWD propulsion

Hold on to your hat. They are really mixing things up at Chevrolet for the new year with the introduction of the first-ever Corvette E-Ray. The mid-engine hybrid uses an advanced electrified propulsion system in addition to its 6.2L LT2 Small Block V8, enabling all-season performance and a breakneck 0-to-60 time of 2.5 sec -- the quickest production Corvette ever. It boasts a quarter-mile time of 10.5 sec.

In a push to become a go-anywhere, anytime vehicle, the new E-Ray is available in removable-roof coupe and hardtop convertible models. It uses electrification to enhance the driving experience with intense straight-line performance, all-weather confidence, and sure-footed grand-touring capabilities. It sports an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

E-Ray shares its purposeful, wide-body proportions with the Z06, accommodating wide wheels that help manage the car's greater torque delivery. The lightweight alloy wheels have a twisted five-spoke star design that is exclusive to E-Ray.

"There's never been a Corvette like E-Ray, and its sophisticated design reflects that," says Phil Zak, executive design director, Global Chevrolet. "It starts with the body color trim, which draws your full attention to the exotic proportions of the E-Ray. The interiors allow customers to reflect their individual personalities with their choice of color executions that provide a refined or dynamic sport look and feel."

According to Chevrolet, "A near immediate feeling of thrust from low-end torque is core to the Corvette driving experience, and the E-Ray packs plenty of it." Power comes from the 6.2L LT2 small block V8, putting 495 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque to the rear axle. It is complemented by a small electric motor that channels an additional 160 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque through the front wheels via a 1.9-kWh battery pack, which is located between the seats. In total, E-Ray produces a combined 655 hp from both the electric motor and small block V8.

The 2024 Corvette E-Ray's electrified propulsion system provides exhilarating acceleration to power out of corners and effortlessly complete passing maneuvers. It can also provide limited all-electric propulsion at the driver's discretion upon startup (Stealth Mode).

E-Ray's intelligent eAWD system is constantly learning the road surface, seamlessly adapting to meet traction conditions and driver needs. During spirited driving and in low-traction environments, E-Ray's eAWD system applies additional power to the front wheels, helping to enhance vehicle stability.

There is no need for plug-in charging for the E-Ray's battery system. The battery is charged via regenerative energy from coasting and braking, as well as during normal driving. The Corvette E-Ray's electric motor over the front axle is compact, preserving space in the front storage compartment.

E-Ray's standard Active Fuel Management system uses the electric motor to extend 4-cylinder operation in various driving scenarios. The amount of electric assist is tailored within each of the Corvette E-Ray's six driver-selectable modes: Tour, Sport, Track, Weather, My Mode, and Z-Mode. Drivers can also select the Charge+ feature, which maximizes the battery's state of charge.

Additional features and technologies of the all-new E-Ray include:

• Stealth Mode, an all-electric drive mode for the street, up to 45 mph.
• New lightweight lithium-ion 12-V battery that supports the LT2 V8 engine's stop/start functionality.
• Standard Brembo Carbon Ceramic brake system for optimal braking performance.
• Standard Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 with three distinct suspension settings.
• Staggered 20- and 21-in. wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires are available with an optional performance package.
• Low, wide stance with crafted body styling that is 3.6 in. wider overall than Stingray.
• Visceral sound experience that embodies the car's dominating presence. The electric front motor works in harmony with the LT2 engine to create a unique sound.
• Enhanced roster of driver-assistance technologies (shared with all 2024 Corvette models), including Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, and Automatic Emergency Braking.

The E-Ray also introduces the all-new Artemis Dipped interior, which features complementary deep green tones on nearly every interior surface and will only be available on 2024 Corvettes. There are multiple options for customers to select when it comes to personalizing their E-Ray's interior including two carbon fiber trim packages, three seat choices, seven interior colors, and more.

Also, there are new Charge+ and Stop/Start buttons on the console and updates to the infotainment system and instrument cluster aimed at providing a more integrated appearance.

E-Ray design highlights include:

• Four aluminum wheel finishes.
• Fourteen exterior color choices, including new for 2024 Riptide Blue, Seawolf Gray, and Cacti.
• An E-Ray-exclusive body-length stripe package in Electric Blue.
• Standard carbon flash badging.
• Available black exhaust tips and bright badging.
• Available carbon fiber ground effects.
• Optional carbon fiber wheels in carbon flash, visible carbon fiber finish, or visible carbon fiber with a red stripe.

The 2024 Corvette E-Ray goes on sale in 2023 with an MSRP of $104,295 for the 1LZ coupe and $111,295 for the 1LZ convertible model.

Learn more at chevrolet.com/upcoming-vehicles/2024-corvette-e-ray.

Source: Chevrolet

Published January 2023

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