We recently had a chance to walk around the new Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 with Kirk Bennion, the exterior design manager on the ZR1 project. The conversation mostly covered aerodynamics and how they literally shaped the car. Here’s what we learned.

Compared to the Z06, the ZR1 has 24 percent less lift in the front and 43 percent less lift in the rear. This brings the overall reduction in lift to 29 percent when compared to a Z06. The biggest challenge for designers of a front-engine sports car is to counter the canopy effect that the cockpit creates. This challenge isn’t quite as tough with a mid-engine design.

(Click through to learn more about the ZR1's aerodynamic development.)


The single biggest improvement in aerodynamics comes from the front splitter. The better the airflow is at the start of the car, the easier it is to get the rear aero package correct. Finding a sweet spot between the aggressive looks of the C6.R’s front splitter and the practicality of a stock C6 was the challenge for Bennion and his team. Extensive wind tunnel testing determined how far forward the splitter needed to extend to optimize airflow.

Additional aero work on the rockers also helps to reduce the lift generated during high-speed driving. The rear fenders were already wide enough to support the massive tires, so there isn’t a need for a huge filler piece to go between the body and fender.

Bennion’s favorite part of the ZR1 is the hood. The goal was to show off the blower and maintain as much forward visibility as possible. Accomplishing both meant showcasing the blower with a window. Owners of base or Z06 C6 Corvettes won’t be able to bolt on the ZR1 hood and take advantage of its weight savings because the hood is a bespoke item. Corvette fans will note the ZR1 hood pays homage to the L88 hood.

Despite the efforts to keep the engine low and the extensive use of carbon fiber, the ZR1 has a slightly higher center of gravity than a Z06. Bennion doesn’t think that will hinder track performance compared to a Z06 because the ZR1 has so much more power and the magnetic ride suspension.

Along with a slightly higher center of gravity, the ZR1 will likely sip a little more fuel than the Z06. The weight difference is within a full tank of fuel and a passenger, so it probably won’t be a significant difference during highway runs. Around town, well, who wants to drive a ZR1 around in stop-and-go traffic anyway?