After Chevrolet launched the mid-engine C8 Corvette, there were rumors that the automaker would expand the nameplate into a full-fledged sub-brand with multiple models. At the end of 2019, GM CEO Mary Barra left the door open to such a possibility, and a new Car and driver the report indicates that the idea is not yet dead. The automaker plans to launch a new Corvette sub-brand in 2025.
According to the publication, Chevrolet plans to launch two Corvette-branded models alongside the Corvette electric coupe. The new models will be a four-door “coupe” and a high-performance crossover. Motor1.com contacted Chevrolet about the report, but the automaker would not comment on the speculation.
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Car and driverThe source told the publication that the models will differentiate themselves from other electric vehicles with premium software and hardware, such as ultra-efficient inverters, four-wheel steering, miniaturized components and other goodies. The cars will also have an 800-volt electrical system with up to 350 kilowatts of charging capacity, high-density batteries, two-speed transmission, cable braking, torque vectoring and a patented cooling system.
The Corvette C8 which was launched for the 2020 model year was a big change for the model, becoming a mid-engined sports car for the first time. So far, Chevrolet has launched the Corvette Z06, but there are other variants in development, such as the all-wheel-drive Corvette hybrid. The bowtie brand is also said to be preparing a revived ZR1, a more extreme hybrid named after Zora Arkus-Duntov and an all-electric variant.
If Chevrolet expands the Corvette brand, it will do so after watching Ford expand the Mustang brand to include the four-door Mach-E crossover. The Mustang Mach-E went on sale about two years ago, and sales have continued to grow through 2022. However, GM will likely position new Corvette sub-brand models as expensive and exclusive. All these new technologies have a price.
As automakers shift to building electric-only vehicles for the rest of the decade, there will be opportunities for disruption. At GM, that may mean capitalizing on the popular Corvette nameplate for a range of premium models that would give the automaker something luxurious and capable with plenty of performance, too.
Pictured: a speculative render.
