We know for sure that the official debut of the Corvette C8 Z06 is set for October 26, 2021, and as always, some spy photos have revealed a preview of the design. Somewhat surprisingly, Chevrolet released a single, albeit surprising, shot of a Corvette Z06. This appears to be a more subdued Z06 compared to the huge versions with wing and splitter that we have seen in the track tests, but it is not really a novelty, since it is known that it will be launched a Z06 “base” together with a version “Z07 ″ more track oriented.
Always looking at the official photo, you can see that the main innovations from the design point of view are concentrated in the area under the hood. So here is a new opening of the grid, optimized air intake design and a more aggressive front splitter. The new rear side panels change the design of the side air intakes along the side, further enhanced by a new sill element. The photo does not show the front, although the leaked spy photos show a new bumper design, four exhaust pipes and other updates that make the new Z06 even sportier.
photo credit S. baldauf – motorauthority
Chevrolet Corvette Z06, the flat-plane version of the V8 engine debuts
From the spy videos of the track tests and the rumors circulating on the internet, we know that the Z06 will be powered by an engine 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 for the first time flat-plane type (compared to the cross-plane mounted on other Corvettes and, as a rule, on the most powerful cars made in the USA) assisted by two overhead camshafts, which will give the Z06 a sound very similar to the Ferrari. It should produce just over 600 hp and reach the beauty of 9,000 rpm.
The Z06 will be built at the Corvette plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and will be supported by one transmission Tremec double clutch at 8 or 10 speeds. No manual gearbox will be offered, but the dual toggle disengagement function will allow the driver to disconnect the clutch by holding both paddles for more manual-like control, as well as allowing him to choose a specific gear.
The rumors that run on the net also speak of front wheels with a diameter of 20 inches with 275 / 30R20 tires, while the rears will be able to count on 21-inch wheels wrapped in massive 345 / 25R21 rubber. The tires Michelin Sport Cup 2 R will grace the optional Z06 for the track, as well as, most likely, i love charcoal. There is a lot of speculation going on right now, so we’ll have to wait until October 28 to find out the juicier details, unless Chevrolet decides to reveal a few more details ahead of time.
Finally, since Chevrolet calls this new Z06 “model year 2023” it means that the American racing car will probably not arrive in dealerships anytime soon. We therefore expect the automaker to announce the availability of the model this fall.