Corvette ZR1 Engine Information Leaks

Michael Accardi
by Michael Accardi

The dreams of those desiring dual overhead camshafts in the next Corvette ZR1 are probably dead after a discovery in GM’s ordering system.

Whenever Chevy gets around to debuting the 2018 Corvette ZR1 it will also bring forth a new supercharged 6.2-liter LT5 V8, just not the LT5 some fans were hoping for.

The folks over at Weapon X Motorsports discovered new information about GM’s next great eight while perusing the GM RPO system; according to what they found, the LT5 will sport variable valve timing, direct injection, aluminum construction and a supercharger.

SEE ALSO: 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Spied Getting Some Track Time

On the surface, the LT5 doesn’t sound that much different from the Corvette Z06’s LT4, which could mean the new motor is simply an LT4 with a bigger blower nestled between the banks. It’s believed GM could once again tap Eaton for the supercharger supply, possibly opting for the company’s new TVS-R2650–a larger and more refined version of the LT4’s four-lobe unit.

Previous information had indicated the LT5 would be naturally aspirated and ditch GM’s traditional cam-in-block design for overhead units.

It’s still unclear what transmission Chevy will pair with the new powerplant, as videos of prototypes testing in Germany seem to indicate engineers are testing with GM’s new 10-speed automatic and a rev-matching 6-speed manual.

A version of this story originally appeared on GM Inside News

Discuss this story on our Chevrolet Corvette Forum

Michael Accardi
Michael Accardi

More by Michael Accardi

Comments
Join the conversation
Next