Later this year, the iconic Chevrolet Corvette nameplate receives its most electrifying makeover yet as the E-Ray hybrid arrives in the UK in right-hand drive. Officially revealed at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Corvette E-Ray blends classic V8 thunder with a modern electric all-wheel-drive system, delivering supercar-shaking performance at a surprisingly accessible price.
Goodwood Debut and UK Arrival
Amid the revving engines and legendary hillclimb of Goodwood, Chevrolet lifted the curtain on the Corvette E-Ray. This marks the first time a production Corvette with hybrid power has entered the British market. Orders are open now through four dedicated Corvette dealers, with first deliveries scheduled for September 2025. Both coupe and convertible body styles will be available, catering to enthusiasts seeking open-top thrills or a fixed-roof halo car.
Dual Powertrain for Brutal Acceleration
The heart of the E-Ray is a supercharged all-American V8 teamed with a front-mounted electric motor. Together they crank out a formidable 643 horsepower, making this the quickest production Corvette ever sold in the UK.
- Electric Motor: 161 hp unit on the front axle for instant torque and eAWD traction.
- Combustion Engine: Traditional small-block V8 powering the rear wheels with a spine-tingling rumble.
- Total Output: 643 hp, enabling a 0–62 mph sprint in just 2.9 seconds.
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 180 mph.
Battery Pack and Regenerative Charging
Rather than requiring frequent plug-ins, the E-Ray relies on a compact 1.9 kWh battery mounted behind the cockpit. Regenerative braking recovers energy under deceleration, meaning you can quietly weave away from a drive-through without firing up the V8. This same battery also supports up to four miles of pure electric driving at speeds up to 44 mph—ideal for silent urban departures and sneaky midnight runs.
Stealth Mode and Electric Launch
‘Stealth Mode’ allows the Corvette to start and pull away under electric power, a feature normally reserved for full EVs. Once pace demands exceed 44 mph or the small battery depletes, the V8 bursts into life seamlessly. Drivers can select from six drive modes—Tour, Sport, Track, Weather, MyMode, and Z Mode—each altering throttle, damping, and eAWD intervention to suit road or racetrack conditions.
Chassis, Suspension and Braking
Speed alone isn’t enough; the E-Ray platform also helps corner like a scalpel. Standard Magnetic Ride Control adjusts suspension damping in real time, smoothing the ride or stiffening for precise handling. Stopping power comes courtesy of Brembo brakes with carbon-ceramic rotors, providing fade-free deceleration even after repeated high-speed laps.
Aggressive Styling and Customisable Options
Built on the widened Z06 chassis, the E-Ray features pronounced front and rear haunches to accommodate its extra hardware. Buyers can choose from up to ten exterior colors, including attention-grabbing Hysteria Purple, Competition Yellow, and Arctic White. Inside, leather and suede trims in numerous hues let owners personalise their cabin, while carbon-fiber interior accents add a high-tech touch.
Wheel and Tire Choices
- Front Wheels: 20-inch forged aluminum or optional carbon fiber for an 18.5 kg saving in unsprung mass.
- Rear Wheels: 21-inch units complement the generous rear track.
- Standard Tyres: Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 for all-weather grip.
- Optional Upgrade: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tyres for track-day traction.
Pricing and Availability
At £153,440 for the E-Ray Coupe and £159,230 for the Convertible, this Corvette undercuts many exotic rivals while matching or exceeding their performance figures. With a unique blend of raw American muscle, cutting-edge eAWD tech, and everyday usability, the E-Ray stands out as an unexpectedly shrewd supercar choice in 2025.
Enthusiasts looking to secure one of the earliest hybrid Corvettes in the UK should contact their local Corvette dealership to place a deposit. As production ramps up, September’s first deliveries promise to set a new benchmark for hybrid sports cars on British roads.
