SHERIDAN, WYOMING – October 29, 2024 – The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has made history as the fastest car ever built by an American automaker.
General Motors President Mark Reuss achieved this milestone, reaching a remarkable speed of 233 mph on a test track in Germany. This feat sets a new top speed record unmatched by any other production car currently available for under $1 million.
The record-setting run took place at the High-Speed Oval Track at ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg, utilizing both the northbound and southbound straightaways.
"Setting the top-speed record in the Corvette ZR1 is a true triumph for Corvette and for Chevrolet, and also an exhilarating, surreal experience for me personally," said Reuss. "With the current generation's switch to mid-engine, we knew the outstanding performance and balance made this a real possibility. To go over there and get it done is a testament to the power of ZR1, and to the incredibly talented team that developed and built it."
Key Factors Contributing to the Record-Breaking Performance:
- Powerful Engine: The ZR1 boasts the most powerful V8 engine ever produced in America by an automaker.
- Mid-Engine Architecture: Corvette's shift to a mid-engine design in 2020 unlocked new levels of performance and innovation.
- Advanced Technology: Chevrolet engineers utilized GM's extensive software, modeling, and hardware development expertise to achieve this new speed benchmark.
- Top Speed Mode: A specialized driving mode designed for closed-course use, optimizing chassis control systems for maximum speed.
- Optimal Testing Conditions: The Papenburg track provided ideal conditions, including temperature and air density, for high-speed testing.
ZR1's Record-Setting Run: Notable Facts
- The record-setting ZR1 coupe was equipped with a standard chassis, aero package, spoiler, carbon fiber ground effects, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and aluminum wheels.
- The car reached 233 mph at redline in sixth gear.
- An engineer accompanied Reuss during the runs, analyzing data in real-time.
- Multiple runs exceeding 230 mph were conducted by engineers with both ZR1 development cars.
- Chevrolet has a history of setting top speed records at Papenburg, including previous Corvette ZR1 generations and the Camaro ZL1.
2025 Corvette ZR1: A Closer Look
The 2025 Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance marvel, featuring:
- A 5.5L, twin-turbocharged LT7 DOHC flat-plane crank V8 engine.
- An impressive 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful factory Corvette and the most powerful V8 ever produced in America by an automaker.
- A sub-10-second quarter-mile time (GM estimate).
- A carbon fiber aero package generating over 1,200 pounds of downforce at top speed.
- The return of the iconic split rear window design.
About General Motors
General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a global leader in the automotive industry, driving the future of transportation through advanced technology and innovation. The company offers a diverse portfolio of vehicles across its Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands, including a wide range of EVs as part of its commitment to an all-electric future.