Chevrolet has taken the wraps off its most extreme Corvette yet – the 2026 Corvette ZR1X, a revolutionary new model that combines massive horsepower with electrified all-wheel drive (AWD). With a staggering 1,250 horsepower and cutting-edge technology, the ZR1X marks a bold leap forward in performance and innovation, setting a new benchmark for American supercars.
This model not only introduces a new level of performance but also reinforces Chevrolet’s legacy by joining the ZR1 to form the most powerful American performance car duo ever created.
At the heart of the ZR1X is the LT7 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, hand-built and producing 1,064 horsepower and 1,123 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. This engine is an evolution of the high-revving flat-plane crank design found in the Z06 and GT3.R race car, enhanced with advanced turbocharging for explosive power delivery.
Features like dual 76-mm turbochargers and an integrated “maniturbo” exhaust layout boost throttle response and overall performance.
But the ZR1X doesn’t stop there. The front axle is powered by a compact electric motor producing 186 horsepower and 197 Nm of torque, bringing total system output to 1,250 hp. This setup enables acceleration from 0–96 km/h in under 2 seconds and a quarter-mile run in under 9 seconds, with speeds exceeding 241 km/h.
Building on the AWD foundation laid by the 2024 Corvette E-Ray, the ZR1X uses a battery-assisted front axle to deliver superior traction and acceleration. Its 1.9 kWh battery is integrated into the car’s central chassis spine for better weight distribution and has been optimized for repeated energy cycling — ideal for track performance. The system charges itself via regenerative braking and does not require any plug-in charging.
The AWD system seamlessly blends electric and combustion power, with advanced torque vectoring and power distribution managed by an upgraded eAWD control system. Front-axle engagement is maintained up to 257 km/h, giving drivers maximum performance on the street and the racetrack.
To handle its extraordinary speed, the ZR1X is equipped with GM’s most advanced braking system ever fitted to a production car. The new J59 package includes massive 16.5-inch carbon ceramic rotors and Alcon 10-piston front and 6-piston rear calipers, delivering fade-resistant stopping power and up to 1.9G of deceleration under extreme conditions.
Two chassis options are available:
- Standard setup with Magnetic Ride Control and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires offers everyday comfort with serious performance.
- ZTK Performance Package adds stiffer suspension, Cup 2R tires, and race-ready precision.
For even greater grip, buyers can add the Carbon Aero Package, which includes aggressive aero elements like dive planes, a large rear wing, and underbody enhancements.
The ZR1X offers multiple driving modes tailored for different performance scenarios:
- Endurance Mode: Optimizes battery strategy for long track sessions.
- Qualifying Mode: Focuses on peak performance for best lap times.
- Push-to-Pass: Delivers maximum power on demand.
New for 2026 is PTM Pro, a performance traction setting that disables traditional traction and stability controls but retains advanced features like regenerative torque vectoring, front-axle brake pre-control, and customizable launch control.
Inside, the ZR1X benefits from a refreshed 2026 Corvette interior, featuring a new three-screen cockpit, redesigned center console, updated performance displays, and a choice of premium materials and finishes. As with all C8 Corvettes, the ZR1X will be offered in both coupe and retractable hardtop convertible versions.
That said, every ZR1X will be built in Bowling Green, Kentucky, with its LT7 engine assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center.
