We've never personally witnessed the return of a celebrated ruler, but the launch of the 2009 Corvette ZR1 at the Detroit auto show may have come close to the same experience. Once GM execs stopped lauding their new uber-Vette, hordes of peasants media professionals ran to the car, and the crowds essentially never thinned out.

That's why we returned yesterday morning, hoping to get some one-on-one time with the King, but the GM folks had already positioned the car on it's public show throne. No matter; we bring you some clear images not only of the car itself, but also its chassis and a cutaway display of its storied LS9 motor - all of which will be surrounded by crowds again in only a few days.