DETROIT, MI – Chevrolet has officially introduced the 2026 Corvette ZR1X, an all-wheel-drive hybrid vehicle touted as an American hypercar with 1,250 horsepower.

Key Facts

• Horsepower and Drivetrain – The 2026 Corvette ZR1X produces a combined 1,250 horsepower from its 1,064 hp LT7 twin-turbo V8 and an additional 186 hp from an electrified front axle, making it all-wheel drive.
• Acceleration – General Motors estimates the ZR1X can achieve 0-60 mph in under 2 seconds and complete a quarter-mile in under 9 seconds, with a trap speed exceeding 150 mph.
• Technological Advancements – The ZR1X features a redesigned eAWD chassis control system, a new J59 braking package with 16.5-inch carbon ceramic rotors, and a refined interior with a three-screen layout.

The ZR1X represents Chevrolet’s latest expansion of the Corvette lineup, building on the foundation of previous models like the E-Ray and ZR1 to deliver what the company calls its most advanced and powerful Corvette yet.

How Does the ZR1X Achieve 1,250 Horsepower with Electrification?

The core of the 2026 Corvette ZR1X’s power comes from its LT7 twin-turbo V8 engine, which alone produces 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque. This V8 is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission sending power to the rear wheels. Complementing this, an electric motor on the front axle contributes an additional 186 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This electrified front axle provides all-wheel-drive capability, a feature first introduced in the 2024 Corvette E-Ray. The electric propulsion system does not require plug-in charging, instead utilizing regenerative efforts from the front drive unit. The ZR1X’s battery pack, with a 1.9 kWh capacity, is designed for rapid power bursts and charging, with increased usable energy compared to the E-Ray.

What Performance Metrics Define This “American Hypercar”?

The combined power output of 1,250 horsepower allows the ZR1X to achieve impressive acceleration figures. General Motors (GM) estimates the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds and complete a quarter-mile in under 9 seconds, with a trap speed exceeding 150 mph. The front axle’s electric motor can apply power up to 160 mph before disengaging, which directly contributes to its quarter-mile acceleration and on-track balance. The ZR1X also integrates a significantly upgraded eAWD chassis control system, derived from the E-Ray, to manage power blending between axles for optimal responsiveness and traction. New for 2026 on all Corvettes, PTM Pro was designed with ZR1X in mind. While this setting turns off traction and stability control, the following features remain active: Regen Brake Torque Vectoring, Front Axle Pre-Control, and Launch Control.

What Advanced Features and Options Will the ZR1X Offer?

Beyond its powertrain, the ZR1X incorporates several new features aimed at enhancing its performance and driving experience. Standard on the ZR1X and optional on the ZR1, the J59 braking package features Alcon 10-piston front and 6-piston rear calipers mated to the largest diameter rotors ever offered on a Corvette—16.5-inch carbon ceramic rotors. This system demonstrated 1.9G of deceleration from 180 to 120 mph during testing. The ZR1X is available in two chassis configurations, both with magnetic ride control. The standard chassis comes with Michelin PS4S tires, while the ZTK Performance Package includes higher spring rates and Michelin Pilot Cup 2R tires for enhanced track performance. Customers can also equip a high-downforce Carbon Aero package, capable of generating 1,200 lbs of downforce at top speed. The interior features a new three-screen layout, a redesigned console, and real-time vehicle data via a built-in Performance App. The 2026 Corvette ZR1X will be built at General Motors’ Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky.

Read the press release from GM here: Introducing the 2026 Corvette ZR1X: A true American hypercar