Chevrolet’s fire-breathing Corvette ZR1 has set a new lap record at Virginia International Raceway with a time of 2:37.25.
Along with a harness bar and track seats with five-point harnesses, the record-setting stock ZR1 coupe was equipped with the available paddle-shift eight-speed automatic and ZTK Performance Package, which includes an adjustable carbon-fibre wing, front splitter with carbon-fibre end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer tyres, and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning.
“The Corvette ZR1’s lap record at VIR, arguably America’s most challenging road course, is a testament to its supercar status,” one-time Holden boss and GM’s executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain, Mark Reuss said.
“On the racetrack, the ZR1 can compete with any supercar — at any price.”
The ZR1’s record lap at VIR was set during routine validation testing earlier this month, with vehicle dynamics engineer Jim Mero at the wheel.
The car was set up per the owner’s manual’s recommended track alignment and aerodynamic settings.
As part of the validation, the ZR1 was finalising its total of 24 hours of at-limit track testing, with multiple GM Performance engineers logging laps.
The ZR1’s exclusive LT5 6.2L supercharged engine is rated at 563kW and 969Nm.
The LT5 features a new, more-efficient intercooled supercharger system, along with GM’s first dual fuel-injection system, which employs primary direct injection and supplemental port injection.
Compared to the supercharger system on the Corvette Z06’s LT4 engine, the LT5 employs a larger, 2.65-litre supercharger that generates more boost while spinning at a slightly slower speed.
That reduces heat to help maintain a lower air intake temperature for optimal performance.
Four new radiators also help manage cooling in the ZR1, which features 13 radiators in all, including circuits for engine oil, transmission and differential cooling.