ZR1 Makes a Comeback at Indy 500, Will It Steer Clear of a Wall This Time? | Carscoops

      Former NFL player and TV host Michael Strahan will be behind the wheel of the Corvette ZR1.

      The Corvette ZR1 is the most powerful factory model ever, generating an impressive 1,064 hp. This powerhouse can accelerate to 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 233 mph. In 2018, a GM executive crashed a C7 Corvette ZR1 during an IndyCar event.

      For the 22nd time, the Indy 500 will feature a Chevy Corvette ZR1 as the pace car. However, this year marks a notable change with the introduction of the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, the most potent pace car to lead the race. Its performance surpasses that of the race cars, boasting roughly 300 more horsepower than those on the track.

      Featuring a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine, the new Corvette ZR1 produces an astonishing 1,064 hp and 828 lb-ft (1,121 Nm) of torque, driving the rear wheels. This allows it to accelerate to 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 233 mph (375 km/h). Former NFL player and current TV host Michael Strahan will be tasked with managing this power while resisting the temptation to push the throttle too hard.

      The ZR1, designated for pace car duties, comes with the Carbon Aero package, including aggressive dive planes in the front and a large rear wing. It is finished in Arctic White, adorned with green and gold Indy 500 logos, and features optional lightweight carbon fiber wheels.

      In the past, a Corvette ZR1 serving as a pace car had an unfortunate incident. In June 2018, GM executive Mark Reuss was driving a 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 during the Indy Detroit Grand Prix when he became too enthusiastic with the accelerator, causing the rear tires to lose traction and crash into a concrete barrier. This incident delayed the race's start by 27 minutes.

      As this will likely be Strahan’s first experience driving the new Corvette ZR1, it would be prudent for him to keep the traction control on and lightly press the accelerator. Otherwise, he could become known as the second pace car driver to crash a ZR1.