The Corvette ZR1X was never intended to be named Zora | Carscoops

      Chevy claims that the ZR1X is America's first genuine hypercar, although it does not carry the Zora name.

      The automaker selected the name for this model to highlight its resemblances to the ICE-only Corvette ZR1.

      Boasting 1,250 horsepower, it's clear that the ZR1X is something exceptional.

      Unless General Motors surprises us, this new variant is set to remain the top tier of the C8 lineup.

      For over five years, nearly every reference to the eagerly anticipated ultimate version of the C8, whether from media outlets or Corvette enthusiasts polishing their vehicles for the weekend, called it the Zora. Just this week, the flagship C8 was finally revealed, but the Zora name was nowhere included.

      In its place, Chevy has opted for the rather lackluster ZR1X, a name that sounds more akin to what a Japanese manufacturer might use for a performance motorcycle. This seems like a missed chance, especially since the Zora name would have been an excellent homage to Zora Arkus-Duntov, often recognized as the father of the mid-engine Corvette.

      So, what occurred?

      A Chevy representative has provided some insight into why the Zora name was not utilized. While the manufacturer has its justifications, it seems that many internet users still refer to the new hybrid ZR1 as the Zora, particularly among notable influencers.

      “ZR1X is an extension of the ZR1 family, and we feel that ZR1X is an appropriate name for the new variant,” the spokesperson mentioned to Road & Track.

      When asked about the absence of the Zora name, the representative responded:

      “I understand that enthusiasts speculated widely about Zora, but since it was a future product, it was never a name we seriously considered,” he said. “What I can tell you is the team believed this Corvette deserved the ZR1 designation, and it was a chance to show that although ZR1 and ZR1X are distinct models, they have a strong familial resemblance and symbolize the peak of Corvette performance.”

      This explanation makes sense in corporate terms, but not everyone agrees. For years, “Zora” stood for the ultimate C8, so referring to it as ZR1X feels somewhat disappointing, especially in light of the car's historical significance.

      Part ZR1, Part E-Ray

      Ultimately, Chevy adhered to standard automotive naming conventions with the ZR1X. This is similar to how Porsche tags the ultimate iterations of high-performance models, like the 911 GT3, with an RS badge. It serves to underline the link between the already remarkable ZR1 and the even more intense X.

      To be fair to Chevy, they never guaranteed the car would be named Zora; that was just a name enthusiasts chose to adopt.

      Regarding the actual meaning of the “X,” Road & Track inquired if it signified the all-wheel-drive system or perhaps stood for “Xtreme.” Chevy let down expectations by confirming that neither was the case, clarifying that there was “no grand scheme behind it.” The focus was simply on “staying close to the ZR1.”

      Hypercar Performance

      Regardless of the name, the new Corvette is impressive and has rightly been called a true American hypercar in terms of performance. Much of the structure draws from the ZR1, including the same 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged LT7 V8 engine producing 1,064 hp at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft (1,122 Nm) of torque at 6,000 rpm.

      Assisting this engine is a 1.9 kWh battery pack from the E-Ray and a new electric motor delivering 186 hp and 145 lb-ft (196 Nm) of torque to the front wheels. Altogether, this results in a combined output of 1,250 hp and the ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in under two seconds.