General Motors has introduced the 2026 Corvette ZR1X, a hybrid hypercar boasting 1,250 hp, AWD, and electrified power—marking a breakthrough in American high-performance engineering.
At a Glance
- The ZR1X combines the ZR1’s 1,064‑hp twin‑turbo V‑8 with a 186‑hp front electric motor
- GM claims sub‑2‑second 0–60 mph acceleration and a top speed near 233 mph
- The hybrid system adds about 260 lb but provides AWD and regenerative braking
- Production begins Q4 2025 at GM’s Bowling Green, Kentucky facility
- Estimated pricing is between $190,000 and $200,000
A Revolution in American Performance
The new Corvette ZR1X is GM’s most powerful production vehicle ever, merging the ZR1’s twin‑turbocharged 5.5‑liter V‑8 with a 186‑horsepower electric front axle. This results in a combined 1,250 hp—enough to reach 60 mph in under 2 seconds, according to GM. Top speed is estimated at 233 mph, putting the ZR1X in the realm of elite hypercars like the Ferrari SF90 and McLaren P1.
The ZR1X uses the same electric motor system found in the E‑Ray hybrid, but now mated to the more powerful twin-turbo V‑8. Its 1.9 kWh battery supports regenerative braking and powers Chevy’s PTM Pro traction system for improved launch control and all‑weather grip.
Watch a report: Electrification Powers Corvette ZR1X to 1,250 HP.
Built for the Track—and the Market
The ZR1X will be assembled at GM’s Bowling Green facility in Kentucky, which has handled all Corvette production since 1981. Despite the hybrid’s additional ~260 pounds, engineers claim its performance tuning—carbon‑ceramic brakes, lightweight materials, and active aero—maintains balance and agility. The car’s track-ready tires and suspension are shared with GT‑level Corvette Racing platforms.
Car and Driver reports pricing will likely start just under $200,000—making the ZR1X a performance bargain compared to European hypercars with similar specs.
Legacy Shift in the Corvette Lineup
The ZR1X is the pinnacle of a five-tier Corvette lineup, spanning the base Stingray, E‑Ray, Z06, ZR1, and now the ZR1X. More than just an evolution, it marks a philosophical shift: embracing hybridization not to save fuel, but to enhance outright speed.
With 1,250 hp on tap and electrification delivering both performance and control, the ZR1X isn’t just America’s fastest Corvette—it may be its first true global hypercar competitor.
