GM describes the ZR1 as 'unthinkable', and certainly the numbers are hard to get your head around: 793kW – that’s just over 1000 horsepower – from its 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged DOHC flat-plane crank LT7 V8 engine.

With the most powerful production V8 ever produced in America, the ZR1 is said to capable of sub-10 second standing quarter mile (400m) times.

The LT7 is essentially a turbocharged version of the Z06 model’s LT6 engine, but with lots of changes, including different heads and conrods. It’s the first production Corvette ever with a turbocharged engine.

The ZR1 has a bespoke carbon fibre aero package with huge rear wing and deeper front splitter said to create some 600kg of downforce at top speed. The revised bodywork also features a split rear window, reviving this iconic Stingray styling cue.

“The team that revolutionised Corvette with a mid-engine architecture took on another challenge: take ZR1 to the next level,” Chevrolet vice president Scott Bell said. “Corvette ZR1 is about pushing the envelope with raw power and cutting-edge innovation. From Stingray, to Z06, E-Ray, and now ZR1, the Corvette family continues to elevate with each new iteration and challenge the best in the world.”

It's due for a 2025 release; there are no plans at this stage for a RHD version.

Tags:  corvette