Chevrolet has joined the exclusive club of 1,000-horsepower-plus supercars with its new Corvette ZR1, priced at $174,995 – a fraction of what its European rivals charge.
The secret to Chevy’s affordability lies in leveraging its in-house engineering, strong supplier base, and extensive manufacturing resources. Unlike European exotics, which are built on small volumes with limited production runs, Chevrolet produces over 2.5 million vehicles annually, making it an efficient and cost-effective operation.
The ZR1 boasts a sophisticated engine – the same 5.5-liter flat-plane crank design used by Ferrari – producing 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque. This powerful V-8 has been engineered to handle extreme stress, thanks to its twin-turbo setup.
Chevrolet’s scale gives it permission to push performance boundaries, resulting in world-class track lap times. The company’s engineers who set these records also work on manufacturing the cars, ensuring a seamless transfer of expertise.
The ZR1 comes with premium features, including a state-of-the-art interior with stitched leather thrones and big digital screens. The 2026 model year promises an even more sophisticated cabin, built upon learnings from various GM platforms.
With its impressive performance capabilities, exclusivity offered by the Bowling Green facility’s museum and track-testing experiences, and its relatively affordable price point, the Corvette ZR1 is attracting high-end customers who crave a premium driving experience.
Source: https://eu.detroitnews.com/story/business/autos/2025/05/30/corvette-zr1-how-gm-makes-a-1064-horse-supercar-for-15th-the-price/83951269007