by A New Level of Power for the Corvette
The new all-wheel-drive, hybrid twin-turbocharged V8 Corvette ZR1X has taken the model into hypercar territory, something few could have imagined just a decade ago. This is a turning point for a car always associated with accessible high performance. Now, Specialty Vehicle Engineering has taken the Chevrolet C8 platform to an even higher level, achieving more power than even the Bugatti Chiron.
The Project’s Foundation
The base for the latest Yenko project from SVE was the hybrid Corvette E-Ray, considered by many to be one of the best C8 versions for daily use, even if it remains somewhat underrated. To transform it from a mid-tier Corvette into a car that surpasses even the 1,250-horsepower ZR1X, SVE thoroughly reworked the powertrain.
The 6.2-liter V8 engine was completely modernized: forged aluminum pistons, high-strength ARP cylinder head and main studs, a special camshaft, a new intake manifold, individual valve covers with integrated oil separators, a forged steel crankshaft, and forged H-beam connecting rods were installed. The transformation is completed by two 58 mm turbochargers with ceramic bearings and water cooling.
Engineering for Four-Figure Power
Paired with the standard front electric motor from the E-Ray, the twin-turbo V8 allows the Yenko/SC E-Ray to produce an impressive 1,564 hp, which is 64 horsepower more than the Bugatti Chiron. To handle such power, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission was upgraded, and a gear-dependent boost control function was implemented to ensure effective transfer of all power to the road.
SVE has not yet released official performance figures, but given the stated power and all-wheel drive, the car’s potential could surpass even the ZR1X. The quarter-mile time could drop into the 8-second range with a small tail.
What Else Changed in the Car
Work on the car appears to be ongoing, as the company has so far published only one low-quality render of the finished product. It shows that the Corvette will receive custom forged wheels measuring 20 inches in front and 21 inches in the rear, unique graphics, and new emblems.
Plans also include installing a special exhaust system, painted brake calipers, and a number of interior updates, including new floor mats and sill plates. The tuner states it will provide a 3-year or 36,000-mile (60,000 km) warranty on the new twin-turbo engine, giving owners peace of mind. However, after this period expires, it’s probably wise to have a significant sum ready for possible repairs. After all, the LT2 engine was never designed for such power.
Projects like the Yenko/SC E-Ray clearly demonstrate where the automotive industry is heading in an era when electric vehicles are becoming mainstream. They combine the traditional, emotional power of large internal combustion engines with the advantages of electric traction, creating truly unique and extreme machines. This indicates that even in the future, there will be a place for high-tech but unconventional solutions valued by collectors and enthusiasts. The ability to get such power from a tuning company along with a warranty makes this project special, as it removes some of the risks associated with radically increasing the performance of a production car.
