The Chevrolet Corvette has always been the ultimate example of American performance. But not too long ago, it would have been blasphemy to suggest that electrification or even hybrid technology would find its way to the Vette, with GM reps in the 1990s and 2000s scoffing at such an idea despite making the occasional concept. But at long last, after a few teases, it’s finally happening with the unveiling of the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, which brings AWD, electrification, and a pinch of flair to the sports car segment.
E-Ray Is More Than Just Electrification
Chevrolet has big plans for the E-Ray, but at first glance, this hybrid Vette model might seem like every other Stingray model, with the core exterior styling carrying over from the standard model. However, the front fascia is reworked, and the rear bumper has new vent pieces built into it. The E-Ray is also slightly wider than the standard Stingray, and the five-spoke alloy wheels are an E-Ray exclusive.
An optional graphics package gives the car Electric Blue stripes that run along the sides, while the Z06 lets the hybrid borrow its carbon ceramic brake rotors. Customers can choose from fourteen different colors, including three new colors Riptide Blue, Cacti, and Seawolf Gray. The interior doesn’t;t change too much from the normal Vette, too, but a new Dipped Artemis package slathers the bulk of the interior in a dark green accent though that package is a 2024-only option. A carbon fiber-infused body kit is also available, and Chevrolet promises that other accessories will be available for the E-Ray.
Green Infused Performance Makes This E-Ray Shine
Contrary to some old rumors, the E-Ray is not a pure EV but will instead be a traditional hybrid model with the mid-mounted 6.2-liter LT2 V8 still making 495 hp while a front-mounted electric motor makes 160 hp. This combined setup is enough to produce a combined 665 horsepower and also allows the Vette to have functional all-wheel drive. This is enough to help the E-Ray make the sprint to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds, with the quarter mile flying by in 10.5 seconds at 130 mph. All of this performance is impressive, but it does come at the cost of some weight gain, with the coupe’s curb weight going up by over 400 lbs while the convertible gains 338 lbs. A 1.9 kWh battery pack powers the motor and is also partly responsible for the all-new “Stealth Mode” feature, which allows the Vette to quietly slink through neighborhoods and on streets up to 45 mph before the V8 kicks in.
Handling is bolstered by the addition of Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and the system even has a special tune reserved just for the E-Ray. All-season tires are standard, but buyers can switch them out for stickier summer tires. Chevrolet also promises that the E-Ray will also benefit from steering and suspension upgrades. The E-Ray will also usher in new changes for the rest of the Vette lineup, with Chevrolet confirming that all models will benefit from new driver-assistance technology, including forward collision alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
When Can I Buy One?
The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray will go on sale later this year though Chevrolet didn’t specifically say when the model will arrive in showrooms. Chevrolet also didn’t release the official E-Ray destination charge but confirmed that the base model will start at $104,295 for the 1LZ Coupe while the uplevel 1LZ convertible starts at $111,295. While this isn’t the fully electric Corvette that separate rumors (as well as an errant statement by President Biden) have alluded to, the E-Ray is undoubtedly a bridge toward this future, especially if the fully electric version of the Corvette makes its debut over the next few years.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.