Chevrolet Unveils the 2026 Corvette ZR1X: The Most Powerful Production Car in GM History
*Preproduction models shown, actual production model may vary.
Chevrolet has officially taken the wraps off the 2026 Corvette ZR1X, and it's nothing short of jaw-dropping. Touted as the most powerful production car General Motors has ever built, the ZR1X ushers in a bold new era for Corvette, redefining what American performance means in the global hypercar market.
Fans and insiders had speculated for months that Chevrolet's newest halo car might debut under the long-rumored "Zora" name, in honor of Corvette's legendary performance pioneer Zora Arkus-Duntov. While GM had trademarked the Zora name, today's announcement confirmed the official badge will be ZR1X.
And make no mistake-this isn't a continuation of Corvette's muscle car roots. It's something more ambitious, more exotic, and far more powerful than anything the brand has attempted before.
A New Hypercar Era Begins
The 2026 ZR1X isn't just fast-it's revolutionary. Packing a dual powertrain layout combining a traditional internal combustion engine with front-axle electric propulsion, this all-wheel-drive beast produces an estimated 1,250 horsepower. That's right-1,250.
This moves the Corvette into elite company, where the competition wears Ferrari, McLaren, and Porsche badges. Chevrolet isn't just playing catch-up with the ZR1X. It's coming for the crown.
Official performance targets are staggering. The ZR1X rockets from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds, and can rip through the quarter-mile in less than 9 seconds, with speeds touching 150 mph. That kind of performance puts it in contention with the most revered hypercars in the world.
Corvette's Evolution Reaches Its Peak
The ZR1X builds on the groundwork laid by the C8 Corvette Stingray, the track-ready Z06, and the hybrid all-wheel-drive E-Ray. Each model nudged Corvette closer to supercar-and now hypercar-territory.
The E-Ray introduced the hybrid front motor setup that makes the ZR1X's AWD platform possible. But while the E-Ray emphasized everyday usability, the ZR1X is built to conquer drag strips and road courses alike. It represents the full maturity of the C8 platform-and a bold leap toward Corvette's electrified future.
No 'Zora' for Now-But the Spirit Lives On
Despite rumors to the contrary, Chevrolet held back the "Zora" name for now. Enthusiasts expected the name to grace the highest-performance Corvette ever, given Zora Arkus-Duntov's vision of creating a mid-engine, world-beating American sports car.
Whether the name "Zora" may appear in future special editions or concepts remains to be seen. For now, the ZR1X name is set to carve its own identity into Corvette history.
What Comes Next
Deliveries of the 2026 ZR1X are expected to begin in late 2025, and anticipation is already running high. While full pricing and production volumes have not yet been disclosed, exclusivity is all but guaranteed. If you're even thinking about getting one, the time to reach out to your Corvette dealer is now.
Chevrolet has published more information on their official ZR1X Pressroom website.
At Central Vermont Auto Mart, we've been tracking major Corvette milestones recently-from the first 2025 ZR1 production car heading to auction for charity, to GM's newly confirmed 12-month ownership policy on ZR1s.
You can revisit both of those coverage pieces below:
Used 2024 Corvette E-Ray for Sale
We currently have a used 2024 Corvette E-Ray available for sale in Montpelier, Vermont. Viewing is by appointment only for pre-qualified buyers. Please send us a message and we will be happy to schedule a showing of this rare Cacti Green exterior paint with Red dipped leather interior, 2024 E-Ray. It's a stunning example of the future of American performance.
Your Vermont Sports Car Source
If you're searching for used sports cars for sale in Barre-Montpelier, Central Vermont Auto Mart is your trusted destination. From iconic Corvettes to high-end European imports, our selection is built for driving enthusiasts who demand more than average. We invite you to browse our inventory online or visit us in person to explore your options, including competitive financing programs and personalized service.
Stay in the Know
As more ZR1X information becomes available-including pricing and production updates-we'll be covering it on our website and across our social media channels.
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Published June 17, 2025
