by Production of Corvette’s Transmission Returns to the USA
The legendary Chevrolet Corvette, often called the embodiment of American automotive engineering, is becoming even more “American.” The production of the eight-speed dual-clutch robotic transmission (DCT) for the C8 model is being fully relocated from Ontario, Canada, back to Michigan, USA. This change concerns only logistics and the geography of production, not the technical component itself—the hardware and transmission specifications will remain unchanged.
A Key Component of the Corvette’s Character
The transmission, manufactured by Tremec, has been one of the key components of the mid-engine Corvette’s success since its debut. It provides ultra-fast gear shifts and is such a successful solution that many have come to terms with the absence of a manual gearbox as an option. Now Tremec will once again assemble each unit at its own production facility in Michigan.
Completion of a Three-Year Period
Starting with the 2022 model year, a portion of these transmissions was produced under license at a GM plant in St. Catharines, Ontario. This agreement officially concluded in 2025. From now on, every transmission attached to the C8’s V8 engine will come directly from Tremec’s production lines.
From there, it will be shipped to the specialized Corvette plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky, for installation on the car.
The Bowling Green plant has been producing the Corvette since 1981. This change will not leave Canadian workers without jobs. The St. Catharines plant is set to play an important role in GM’s future, as it will be the site for the production of the new generation of gasoline V8 engines. Currently, this enterprise already produces V8s for GM’s full-size pickups and SUVs.
One Base, Different Modifications
All modern Corvette models, from the base 495 hp Stingray to the hybrid all-wheel-drive E-Ray, as well as the Z06, ZR1, and the 1250 hp ZR1X versions, use the same basic Tremec DCT transmission. However, important refinements are made for the more powerful versions to ensure reliable operation with colossal power outputs.
For example, the track-focused ZR1X receives reinforced primary shafts, shot-peened gears, an improved lubrication system, and a number of other modifications deemed unnecessary for the base model.
This relocation of production is part of a larger strategic picture for General Motors. It allows for the optimization of supply chains for a key product, reducing dependence on cross-border logistics, while simultaneously loading the Canadian facility with an even more promising project—the engines of the future. Thus, on one hand, the “Americanness” of the icon is emphasized, and on the other—GM demonstrates a rational approach to distributing production capacity in North America, where each plant receives specialization that matches its competencies and the corporation’s long-term plans.
