Exactly 70 years after the Corvette debuted in New York City, Chevrolet has returned to introduce the first-ever electrified Corvette with AWD and a 6.2L LT2 small-block V-8: the 2024 E-Ray.
The new E-Ray – available in removable roof coupe and hardtop convertible models – uses electrification to enhance the driving experience with straight-line performance, all-weather confidence and sure-footed grand touring capabilities that can only be achieved with eAWD, Chevrolet says. The E-Ray is also the only sports car pairing two separate propulsion systems to provide naturally aspirated V-8 power with electrified responsiveness powered by eAWD.
The E-Ray is the quickest production Corvette in history, clocking a 2.5-second 0-60 mph time before hitting a quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds.
Power comes from the 6.2L LT2 small-block V-8, putting 495 hp and 470 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear axle. It is complemented by an electric motor that channels an additional 160 hp and 125 lb.-ft. of torque through the front wheels via a 1.9 kWh battery pack, which is located between the seats. In total, E-Ray produces a combined 655 hp from both the electric motor and small-block V-8.
Chevrolet says the E-Ray’s intelligent eAWD system is constantly learning the road surface. During spirited driving and in low-traction environments, E-Ray’s eAWD system applies additional power to the front wheels, helping to enhance vehicle stability.
There is no need for plug-in charging for the E-Ray’s battery system. The battery is charged via regenerative energy from coasting and braking, as well as during normal driving.
Additional features and technologies of the all-new E-Ray include:
- Stealth Mode, an electric drive mode for the street, up to 45 mph
- New lightweight lithium-ion 12-volt battery that supports the LT2 V-8 engine’s stop/start functionality
- Standard Brembo Carbon Ceramic brake system for optimal braking performance
- Standard Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 with three distinct suspension settings
- Staggered 20- and 21-in. wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires are available with an optional performance package
- Low, wide stance with crafted body styling that is 3.6 in. wider overall than Stingray
- Roster of driver assistance technologies (shared with all 2024 Corvette models), including Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking
The Corvette E-Ray’s two driver-initiated electric modes enable the car to travel under electric propulsion in certain conditions. The electric motor also optimizes track performance.
Stealth Mode enables all-electric driving when selected at start-up, for a period of time before the engine turns on for normal driving. It is designed for quietly exiting a neighborhood, with a maximum speed of 45 mph, the company says. The engine automatically engages if the vehicle’s speed exceeds the limit, additional torque is requested by the driver, or the E-Ray’s battery pack is depleted.
When it comes to leveraging the electrified propulsion system for enhanced track performance, E-Ray’s eAWD control system applies torque to the front axle as needed. The Charge+ feature can be used to maximize battery state of charge for extended lapping.
The custom-designed Performance Traction Management (PTM) modes are optimized in concert with the eAWD propulsion system.
The 2024 Corvette E-Ray goes on sale in 2023, with an MSRP of $104,2954 for the 1LZ coupe and $111,2954 for the 1LZ convertible model, with production to take place at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly facility in Kentucky, from U.S. and globally sourced parts.
