2026 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray: The Record Breaker

The Best of Both Worlds

The E-Ray represents a pivotal moment in Corvette history. It's the first electrified Corvette and the first with all-wheel drive. But more importantly, it proves that electrification can enhance - not diminish - the driving experience.

At the heart of the E-Ray is Chevrolet's familiar 6.2-liter LT2 V8, producing 495 horsepower sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. But here's where it gets interesting: a 160-horsepower electric motor powers the front wheels, bringing total system output to 655 horsepower.

By The Numbers

What's New for 2026

For 2026, Chevrolet refined the E-Ray in several key areas:

• Suspension Tuning: Revised Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 calibration for better body control without sacrificing comfort
• Battery Management: Improved thermal management allows for more consistent performance during track sessions
• Launch Control: New algorithm shaves 0.1 seconds off the 0-60 time
• Stealth Mode: Electric-only driving extended to speeds up to 45 mph (up from 35)
• New Colors: Hysteria Purple and Riptide Blue Metallic join the palette

How the Hybrid System Works

Unlike typical hybrids focused on fuel economy, the E-Ray's electric system is designed purely for performance. The front electric motor provides instant torque fill during gear changes, eliminating the power gaps that plague traditional automatics during hard acceleration.

The 1.9 kWh battery pack is small but mighty, positioned in the center tunnel where the transmission tunnel would be in a front-engine car. This maintains the Corvette's ideal 50/50 weight distribution while adding the benefits of all-wheel drive.

The Competition

The E-Ray's $104,295 starting price undercuts most of its performance rivals significantly:

• Porsche 911 Carrera 4S: $137,400 - similar AWD performance, but less power
• Audi R8: $158,600 - comparable speed, higher price
• McLaren Artura: $237,500 - hybrid supercar territory
• Ferrari 296 GTB: $322,986 - the hybrid benchmark at 3x the price

Should You Buy One?

The E-Ray makes sense if you want supercar performance with practical daily usability. The AWD system provides confidence in poor weather, while Stealth Mode lets you cruise neighborhoods quietly. It's essentially two cars in one: a silent cruiser and a record-breaking rocket.

However, if you're a purist who wants the most engaging driving experience, the standard Stingray or Z06 might be better choices. They're lighter and offer a more direct connection to the road.