Spy Photos: Is this the Hybrid 2023 Corvette C8 E-Ray?
Our spy photographer caught what appears to be the hybrid version of the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette prepping for testing at Germany’s Nürburgring racetrack. Not surprisingly, the new hybrid Corvette is said to be called the Corvette E-Ray, trademarks for which were discovered as far back as 2015.
This prototype features the new wide-body design like the Corvette Z06, but is missing the Z06’s quad exhaust-pipe layout at the rear. The Z06 will debut this fall as a 2023 model, and the hybrid Corvette will likely break cover sometime in 2022, also as a 2023 model. Expect it to serve as the replacement for the Corvette Grand Sport.
Powertrain rumors suggest a single motor powering the front axle and the Stingray's 6.2-liter V-8 engine twisting the rear axle. Peak output is projected to be in the 600-650 hp range, and could possibly have plug-in capability, which would mean a small electric range is possible.
A more potent hybrid system with an electric motor also at the rear axle is expected to be reserved for a future Corvette Zora flagship—look for news on that in the coming months.
Without a doubt, more electrified performance is coming to the Corvette lineup. There are even plans to launch a fully electric Corvette, a model whose existence has been mentioned by Corvette fan President Joe Biden on multiple occasions.
Considering General Motors plans to have all its light vehicles powered by electricity by 2035, it's possible the C9 Corvette will be all-electric.
