Chevrolet has officially pulled the covers off what is arguably the wildest factory-built Corvette in history—the 2026 Corvette ZR1X. Blending the staggering twin-turbo power of the upcoming ZR1 with the hybrid all-wheel-drive (AWD) system pioneered by the E-Ray, the ZR1X isn’t just a performance upgrade. It’s a revolutionary step forward in Corvette evolution.
A New Benchmark: 1250 Horsepower
At the core of the ZR1X lies a marriage of two powertrains: a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged LT7 V8 producing 1064 horsepower, and an enhanced version of the E-Ray’s front-mounted electric motor, delivering 186 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Together, they produce a jaw-dropping 1250 combined horsepower, making the ZR1X the most powerful Corvette ever built.
Unlike the traditional rear-wheel-drive layout of past Corvettes, the ZR1X utilizes a hybrid all-wheel-drive configuration. The LT7 engine sends power to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the electric motor powers the front wheels, drastically improving off-the-line traction and overall performance.
Performance That Redefines Brutality
Chevy’s performance targets are nothing short of outrageous. With AWD grip and instant electric torque, the ZR1X rockets from 0 to 60 mph in under 2.0 seconds, and completes the quarter-mile in under 9.0 seconds, reaching trap speeds over 150 mph. And Chevy says those numbers are achievable even on unprepped surfaces.
Thanks to a 29% increase in usable battery energy (despite retaining the E-Ray’s 1.9-kWh gross capacity) and an electric motor redline bumped to 17,000 rpm, the front motor contributes more sustained performance and disengages only at 160 mph (up from 150 mph on the E-Ray), further enhancing top-speed stability and acceleration.
Advanced Chassis and Control Systems
The ZR1X doesn’t just excel in straight-line sprints. Chevrolet’s engineers have overhauled the eAWD chassis control system, previously seen on the E-Ray. Now optimized for hypercar-level output, it allows the ZR1X to pull 1.0g both longitudinally and laterally, creating an experience that’s as capable in corners as it is in drag races.
Also new is a “Push-to-Pass” feature, integrated into the cruise control switch, which unleashes the full 1250 horsepower when activated in Performance Traction Management (PTM) modes. The Charge+ button, which enhances battery regeneration and performance, has moved from the console to the steering wheel for faster access.
Braking That Matches the Power
Addressing concerns from ZR1 prototypes about braking capability, the ZR1X debuts a completely new braking system—the J59 package. This includes massive 16.5-inch carbon-ceramic rotors paired with 10-piston front and 6-piston rear Alcon calipers. According to Chevy, this system can produce 1.9g of deceleration, hauling the car down from 180 mph to 120 mph with brutal efficiency.
These brakes will also be available on the regular 2026 ZR1 as an option, but they come standard on the ZR1X.
ZTK Performance Package Returns
Chevy is also bringing back the ZTK Performance Package for track-day warriors. This upgrade includes:
- Stiffer suspension tuning
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires
- Carbon Aero Package with front dive planes, underbody strakes, a hood Gurney lip, and a massive rear wing
For those who prefer more street-oriented driving, the standard ZR1X comes with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and a more forgiving ride setup.
Interior: Familiar Yet Upgraded
Despite its hypercar powertrain, the ZR1X shares its cabin layout with other 2026 Corvettes. However, several refinements have been made:
- The controversial button-heavy console design is gone
- HVAC controls are now placed under the central infotainment screen
- A trio of screens now defines the interior:
- 14.0-inch digital gauge cluster
- 12.7-inch central touchscreen
- 6.6-inch driver-side auxiliary display for head-up display and PTM settings
This high-tech setup brings the Corvette’s interior closer in line with modern European supercars.
Price and Availability
Chevrolet hasn’t disclosed official pricing yet, but the ZR1X is expected to cost upwards of $250,000, easily making it the most expensive Corvette ever produced. However, considering its performance rivals hypercars that cost twice or even three times as much, it might still be considered a bargain by supercar standards.
Production will begin later in 2025, with customer deliveries expected before the end of the year.
Final Thoughts: The Corvette Becomes a Hypercar
The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X isn’t just an evolution—it’s a revolution. By combining mind-blowing hybrid performance, aggressive design, and track-ready tech, Chevy has built a car that competes with the world’s elite hypercars at a fraction of the price. For traditionalists, it may be a step too far. For enthusiasts craving unmatched performance from an American icon, the ZR1X is the ultimate expression of what a Corvette can be.