Chevrolet Ramps Up 1,064-HP Corvette ZR1 Production Beyond Expectations

Feb 26, 2026 2 min read
Chevrolet Ramps Up 1,064-HP Corvette ZR1 Production Beyond Expectations

Chevrolet appears to be producing far more of its new Corvette ZR1 than many enthusiasts anticipated, signaling strong early demand for the 1,064-horsepower halo model.

Traditionally, high-performance flagships are built in limited numbers to preserve exclusivity. The latest data suggests General Motors is taking a different approach with the 2026 Corvette ZR1. Production tracking figures indicate that more than 1,000 ZR1 coupes have already been assembled for the 2026 model year, along with 156 examples of the even more extreme ZR1X variant.

The ZR1 is powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 delivering 1,064 horsepower, enabling a claimed 0-to-60 mph sprint of 2.2 seconds. With a starting price of about $185,000 in the United States, it undercuts many traditional supercars while offering comparable or superior performance. The all-wheel-drive ZR1X raises the bar further, reaching 60 mph in just 1.68 seconds, making it the quickest production car from an American manufacturer.

The broader C8 Corvette lineup continues to post strong numbers as well. Total 2026 model year production across the C8 family stands at approximately 16,793 units so far. That figure surpasses Lamborghini’s total sales in 2025 by roughly 6,000 vehicles, underscoring the Corvette’s scale advantage even at its highest performance levels. Reports also suggest Chevrolet may expand the range further with a potential Grand Sport model in development for 2027.

Despite Corvette buyers’ reputation for highly individualized specifications, ordering data reveals consistent trends among ZR1 customers. Black is the most popular exterior color, selected by 27.4% of buyers, followed by white and yellow. More distinctive hues such as Riptide Blue Metallic account for a smaller share, with just 4.8% of orders.

Performance-focused options dominate as well. Roughly 80% of buyers choose the carbon fiber aero package over the standard configuration. The premium 3LZ trim package leads orders, while only 1.8% opt for the entry-level 1LZ.

Though mass-produced compared to exotic hypercars, the ZR1 occupies a distinct niche. It delivers extreme performance at roughly half the cost of some rivals, positioning it as one of the most aggressive value propositions in the modern supercar market — and one that appears readily available to meet demand.

https://autos.yahoo.com/new-vehicles-and-reviews/articles/chevrolet-building-more-1-000-180000214.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAC8aQxllwo62naWPqGGC_TAKjI1odvMxINENddx69c30OPbSO-5ImDSUzb7Es7KNDWFhAcy1NzWIK2b6CEnYtvv0-k9gzBs5Tqr93CWUGiwzLPwtWtX_RGLdhOMn8M1YN4KJNmmOVF_-Wvg7Ssxx6lB-mYr9MV7kRYZdHmFWoNTk

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