Holden has confirmed that the next generation mid-engine Corvette will be built in right-hand-drive (RHD) and will be for sale in Australia.

The new Corvette is the first production version in mid-engine configuration. It is also the fastest, most powerful entry-level Corvette.

The Corvette is powered by Chevy’s next-generation naturally aspirated 6.2L Small Block V8 LT2 engine. It will produce 495hp (369 kW) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque when equipped with performance exhaust — the most horsepower and torque for any entry level Corvette. 0-100km/h will be under three seconds with a performance package installed.

The LT2 is paired with Chevrolet’s first eight speed dual-clutch transmission – designed with TREMEC.

“The news that Corvette will now be built in right-hand-drive for the first time ever – and will be exported to Australia – is hugely exciting for our team at Holden and any Australian who loves high performance cars,” said Dave Buttner, chairman and managing director of Holden.

“With our long history in motor racing, performance vehicles are an indelible part of the Holden brand. Our team is totally revved up to build on Holden’s performance legacy with the most technologically advanced Corvette ever built.

“We look forward to taking on the European and Japanese performance vehicles with some highly sophisticated American muscle.”

The Corvette benefits from GM’s new digital vehicle platform, an all-new electronic architecture that enables the adoption of the company’s next generation of technologies. The company says that the architecture minimises wiring while allowing for faster signal transmission between different vehicle systems and the higher resolution screens, and also enables enhanced cyber security measures.

The Corvette’s exterior certainly places it more in line with the European supercars with which it is designed to compete. The mid-engine layout gives it proportions akin to Ferraris and others, and that high bar is clearly in Holden and GM’s sights.

“As America’s most iconic performance nameplate, redesigning the Corvette from the ground up presented the team a historic opportunity, something Chevrolet designers have desired for over 60 years,” said Mike Simcoe, Vice President of Global Design, General Motors. “It is now the best of America, a new arrival in the mid-engine sports car class. We know Corvette can stand tall with the best the world has to offer.”

Production will begin later this year.

Source: Motor Trader E-Magazine (Aug 2019)

13 Aug 2019