by Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X: New target at Pikes Peak
Chevrolet intends to set a new record for production cars on the Pikes Peak course. This weekend, the 1250 hp (932 kW / 1267 ps) Corvette ZR1X supercar will attempt to become the fastest production car in the famous Pikes Peak hill climb.
For this attempt, driver JR Hildebrand will get behind the wheel of the 2027 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X and race up the 20-kilometer (12.42-mile) course. The route features 156 turns and an elevation gain of 1440 meters (4725 feet).
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This is a serious challenge, especially considering that Chevrolet will try to do it in under 9 minutes and 53 seconds. As Hildebrand explained:
Our goal is very simple — to become the fastest production car at Pikes Peak of any type. 9:53 is the absolute record for production cars, and that’s the number we came here unequivocally to beat. My goal is to post a time that will be difficult for anyone else to surpass anytime soon.
GM
The model will compete in the hybrid production class, using a production exhaust system and Michelin Cup 2R tires from the ZTK Performance Package. Hildebrand called it “a car you can just go out and buy at a Chevy dealership.” However, there are some minor modifications to comply with racing rules.
Although the small, low-resolution images do not capture the car’s full beauty, the ZR1X is equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 engine complemented by a front electric motor. This setup provides all-wheel drive, as well as an incredible 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) time of 1.89 seconds when using the ZTK Performance Package.
This record attempt demonstrates how far technology in production cars has come. The combination of a powerful V8 engine with an electric motor not only delivers impressive power but also provides better road grip thanks to all-wheel drive, which is critical for a demanding course like Pikes Peak. If the Corvette ZR1X manages to break the record, it will be a significant milestone for Chevrolet and confirm that American supercars can compete with the world’s best hypercars at the highest level. Success at Pikes Peak could also impact brand perception and boost interest in future hybrid models.
