The Corvette ZR1 isn’t just another performance car; it’s a track-ready machine that’s setting new standards for speed, engineering, and precision. Recently, the ZR1, driven by four General Motors (GM) drivers, has shattered expectations by breaking five track records across the U.S. on a special track tour. These records speak volumes about the car’s raw power and cutting-edge design, proving that the ZR1 is more than capable of dominating on some of the most challenging racetracks in the country.
Record-Breaking Lap Times Across Five U.S. Tracks
The team behind the Corvette ZR1, with over 65 years of combined GM Level 6 driving experience, took the car to several tracks across the U.S., where it left a trail of broken records. Each lap was completed by a different driver, showcasing the ZR1’s versatility and the strength of its engineering, no matter who’s behind the wheel. Here’s a look at the lap times they set:
- Watkins Glen Long Course: 1:52.7 – Bill Wise, Lead Performance Engineer, Chassis Controls
- Road America: 2:08.6 – Brian Wallace, Lead Vehicle Dynamics Engineer
- Road Atlanta: 1:22.8 – Chris Barber, Lead Development Engineer
- Virginia International Raceway Full Course: 1:47.7 – Aaron Link, Global Vehicle Performance Manager
- Virginia International Raceway Grand Course: 2:32.3 – Aaron Link
These track records were achieved using a pre-production Corvette ZR1 equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, which brings an array of enhancements designed for maximum downforce, stability, and grip.
The ZTK Performance Package: Engineered for Track Domination
The ZTK Performance Package is one of the key features that set the Corvette ZR1 apart. It includes a high-downforce rear wing, front dive planes, and a tall Gurney lip – all made from lightweight, high-strength woven carbon fiber. The package also adds underbody strakes, replacing the standard front underwing stall Gurney to boost front-end downforce. Complementing these upgrades are stiffer suspension tuning and the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R ZP tires, all of which ensure the ZR1 stays glued to the track no matter how fast it’s going.
These enhancements prove that while these drivers each brought their own unique style to the wheel, the Corvette ZR1 was engineered to handle the highest levels of performance, making it accessible to enthusiasts who want to experience top-tier speed and precision.
The Drivers Behind the Wheel
The drivers behind these impressive lap times bring a wealth of experience to the table. With backgrounds in racing and high-performance driving, all four drivers have earned the prestigious Nürburgring Industry Pool certification and reached the top of GM’s driver certification program. Their combined experience means they were not just pushing the car—they were unlocking its full potential on some of the most demanding tracks in the U.S.
Tony Roma, the Corvette executive chief engineer, shared: “The Corvette ZR1 continues to showcase how this nameplate elevates at every corner. From design, engineering, and development to validation and driving, we do it all in-house.”
Mind-Blowing Performance Numbers
The Corvette ZR1 with the ZTK Package is no slouch when it comes to performance. With a top speed of 233 mph, a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 2.3 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 9.6 seconds, it’s clear this car is a force to be reckoned with. For anyone who’s serious about performance but doesn’t want to break the bank, the ZR1 delivers unparalleled speed for under $1 million—making it an extraordinary value for its class.
Pricing and Availability
The 2025 Corvette ZR1 will start at $174,995 (including destination charges) for the 1LZ coupe and $184,995 for the 1LZ hardtop convertible. Production is set to begin in the second quarter of 2025 at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly plant in Kentucky. For those eager to get their hands on this track-ready monster, Chevrolet will begin accepting orders for the 2025 Corvette ZR1 later this month.
The ZR1 is a testament to Corvette’s unwavering commitment to pushing the limits of automotive performance. With track records, jaw-dropping speed, and a price point that outperforms competitors, the ZR1 is set to leave an indelible mark on the world of performance cars.