The C8 Corvette continues to make headlines with unprecedented designs. After launching its first-ever mid-engine Corvette, Chevy is alluding to a 5.5-liter flat-plane-crank V-8 powered C8 Z06. Although Chevy hasn’t officially confirmed yet, the engine is set to be used in both the Corvette Z06 and ZR1. The C8.R race car currently uses the powerplant. However, a road-going version will be specifically designed for the high-performance Corvettes. The new engine replaces the old overhead-valve design with a dual-overhead-cam setup. The new approach will allow the high-powered Corvette to rev higher.
In contrast to the classic pushrod V-8 roar, the new engine produces an enchanting shriek, similar to a high-revving Ferrari. The engine note is quite different than the typical sound that we hear from Corvettes. The Z06 will likely receive a naturally-aspirated version of the powerplant, while the ultra-high performance ZR1 will probably utilize a twin-turbo configuration for greater power. The Z06 version of the engine should provide more than 600 horsepower and it could rev close to 9,000 rpm. We anticipate the new Corvette trim to be launched in the early part of 2021 as a model for the following year. GM Authority captured a video of the potential Z06 prototype at GM’s Milford Proving Ground.