As the first version of the iconic American sports vehicle to feature electric propulsion and all-wheel drive, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray will mark the beginning of a new era for the brand. The E-Ray will be powered by the same standard 6.2-liter V-8 that is found in the internal combustion Stingray.
However, this engine will be combined with an electric motor to provide an amazing 655 horsepower, which is only 15 horsepower less than the Z06. In addition, the E-Ray will differentiate itself from its predecessors by featuring an intelligent all-wheel-drive system and an electric vehicle mode. At the same time, well-known performance upgrades, such as Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and magnetorheological dampers, will contribute to the vehicle’s overall performance potential.
It should come as no surprise that the E-Ray will have a higher asking price given the numerous improvements it offers over the standard C8 Corvette. Is it therefore worthwhile to pay the admission price?
2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 3LZ Convertible Price & Release Date
The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray will be available in coupe and convertible body types, each of which will be available in three distinct trim levels. The entry-level model will be the 1LZ Coupe, which will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $102,900. It will come standard with performance equipment such as carbon ceramic brakes, adjustable dampers, and a head-up display.
To the best of our knowledge, Chevrolet has not yet disclosed the complete list of standard equipment that will come with the E-Ray as of the time this article was written; nevertheless, we anticipate that it will have most of if not all of, the same features as the Stingray. A performance exhaust, an electronic rear limited-slip differential, leather upholstery, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, and an 8-inch touchscreen come standard on the base model of the internal combustion engine Corvette.
When it comes to sports cars, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is often referred to as the “working man’s hero.” There is simply no other choice for a mid-engine supercar that produces close to 500 horsepower and has a starting price of around $65,895 (MSRP). Naturally, this indicates that the E-Ray 1LZ fetches a staggering $37,005 premium over the standard Stingray. However, the E-Ray has an additional 165 horsepower, a 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds according to the manufacturer, and, just for good measure, it is more fuel efficient and can drive up to 45 mph purely on electric power. As a result, a significant number of prospective purchasers will likely regard the steep price increase to be acceptable.
The highest-end model in the Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray lineup is the 3LZ Convertible, which will carry over into the 2024 model year with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $120,850. A performance data recorder, heated and ventilated front seats, wireless charging, a 14-speaker Bose speaker system, sporty GT2 Nappa leather and carbon-fiber seats, a custom leather-wrapped interior with “suede” microfiber trim, and carbon-fiber steering wheel trim and shifter paddles are some of the additional features that will be included in this model.
Few people would consider the price range of approximately $102,000 to $121,000 for the Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray to be pocket change. Despite this, it is possible to consider it a performance bargain, much like the Stingray, because of the performance it gives in comparison to other electrified supercars.
According to AutoCar, the 2023 Porsche Taycan Turbo has four doors, making it far more practical than the E-Ray but also significantly heavier. However, in comparison to the Corvette, it only has 670 horsepower and can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in three seconds. However, the base model of the Taycan Turbo comes in at nearly $30,000 more expensive than the most expensive E-Ray.
The 2023 Audi GT e-tron RS is another four-door EV performer that has performance specs that are comparable to those of the E-Ray. It has 18 fewer horsepower than the E-Ray, but it costs approximately $145,000 more. Aside from that, the next Maserati GranTurismo Folgore is anticipated to have a starting price of more than $200,000, which may provide purchasers with two E-Rays.
Buyers must take into consideration the BMW i4 or the Kia EV6 GT if they want to stay in the electrified space and find something that comes even relatively close to matching the performance and price of the E-Ray. Both of the electric vehicles’ power outputs are much inferior to the E-Rays, as is their overall driving prowess. In addition, it is very safe to presume that individuals who are contemplating purchasing an electric, mid-engine American supercar are not particularly interested in purchasing a BMW sedan or a Kia crossover.
2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 3LZ Convertible New Design
The “Artemis Dipped” interior decor for the Corvette will be updated with a new green-toned design thanks to the E-Ray, although it won’t be available until 2024. Buyers have the option of customizing the interior with one of seven different colors, three different seat configurations, and two different carbon fiber trim package combinations.
Engine
A 6.2-liter LT2 V8 will be standard in the Chevrolet E-Ray, much like it is in the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. It works in conjunction with a single electric motor to produce a total output of 655 horsepower. Both the gasoline V8 engine and the electric motor are connected to an automatic transmission with eight gears and a dual-clutch system. The rear wheels are operated by the gasoline engine. According to Chevy, the electric motor is situated on the front axle so as to maintain the amount of space available for storage in the front trunk (frunk).
The gasoline engine features cylinder deactivation and can function as a four-cylinder in specific driving conditions; yet, when operating at full speed, it will assist in delivering an acceleration time of 2.5 seconds from 0 to 60 miles per hour. A new lightweight lithium-ion battery powers the front motor, and Chevrolet’s excellent Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping suspension comes standard.
The driver is given the ability to select individualized performance settings from a menu of six different drive modes. Tour, Sport, Track, Weather, My Mode, and Z-Mode are the several modes that are available. In addition, the vehicle has a charging mode that allows the driver to replenish the battery while it is being driven, as well as a Stealth mode that enables the E-Ray to run only on its electric engine at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.
Safety
The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 2024 will have the same standard safety features and driver assistance technologies as the other Corvette models. The current generation of Chevrolet Corvettes is equipped with a variety of features, some of which are standard while others are reserved for higher trim levels. The following are some of the standard features that are featured as highlights:
- camera for reversing in high definition
- Rear parking assist sensors
- Warnings for potential collisions in front
- Automatic brakes for use in an emergency
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keeping assistance
Additionally, Chevrolet provides Teen Driver technology in its vehicles. This technology works to keep young drivers safe and gives parents the ability to monitor their use of the vehicle.
Interior
It’s likely that the E-Ray will keep the same 8-inch infotainment screen that comes standard on the Corvette, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As long as there is a valid paid subscription, the system also provides access to SiriusXM satellite radio as well as other linked services, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
It has been confirmed by Chevrolet that the E-Ray is equipped with special infotainment apps that allow owners to track power flow and evaluate performance. The E-Ray Performance App has auxiliary gauges in addition to a dyno feature that displays detailed power output graphs and system data in addition to providing access to system data.
Competitor
Even with a starting price that’s somewhat higher than $100,000, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray will continue to be an incredible value among sports cars. For instance, although the 0-to-60 time of the Porsche 911 Turbo S is approximately half a second faster than that of the E-Ray, the 911 Turbo S costs twice as much. However, as a result of the discontinuance of cars such as the Acura NSX, Audi R8, and McLaren 720S, the competitive environment is currently tilted in favor of the E-Ray.