The new C8 Corvette ZR1 is a true performance powerhouse, throwing down with 1,064 horsepower (possibly more) thanks to the 24 PSI twin-turbocharged 5.5L V8 LT7 gasoline engine. Essentially a boosted variant of the 5.5L V8 LT6 that powers the C8 Corvette Z06, the LT7 incorporates a pair of BorgWarner turbos to elevate output to that mind-boggling four-figure number just mentioned.
In fact, the ZR1’s twin BorgWarner boost-makers are the largest passenger car twin turbochargers on the market.

Each of the C8 ZR1 turbos incorporates a 76mm forged milled compressor wheel and ported shroud, plus a 67mm turbine wheel mounted inside a mono scroll turbine housing. The turbos also include an integrated exhaust manifold with equal length runners, a compressor-mounted blade pass speed sensor, and a decoupled ball bearing system for quicker response, reduced noise, and increased durability.

Other highlights include a zero-clearance heat shield and turbine housing for improved thermal efficiency and lower engine compartment temperatures, as well as an electronically actuated wastegate. The turbos are designed and manufactured in the U.S. Interestingly, the turbos also include a small Gemini rocket insignia as a nod to GM’s involvement in the NASA Gemini missions during the ‘60s.

Vice President of BorgWarner Inc. and President and General Manager, Turbos and Thermal Technologies, Dr. Volker Weng, commented on GM’s decision to tap BorgWarner for the new C8 Corvette ZR1.

“We are proud to secure this contract and support General Motors in making the most powerful Corvette ever built.
This technology has been in the works for some time now, and to see it come to fruition is both exciting and fulfilling,” Dr. Weng said.

“BorgWarner and General Motors have a long history of producing market-leading applications across a wide range of segments, and we look forward to continuing to develop new technologies and push industry boundaries together.”

NASCAR team owner and longtime Chevrolet dealer Rick Hendrick has been waiting this day since January 25th

That’s when he dropped $3.7 Million to own the very first 2025 Corvette ZR1 with VIN 001 at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale.
Rick’s VIN 001 Corvette was built in that first week of ZR1 production, which started April 28th, and it’s been waiting with the other early ZR1s to be released. According to Roger Kiel’s C8 Production tracker, there have just been 14 ZR1s completed so far.

Today news as this Black 2025 Corvette ZR1 was picked up by a Hendrick auto hauler and delivered to City Chevrolet in Charlotte, NC where it will be on display for a limited time before it finds its home next to other VIN 001 Corvettes at Rick’s private collection.

One dealer says that the ZR1s haven’t been released yet for commerce.
As the buyer of the first VIN 001, Rick was able to pick up the car early which is what we are seeing here, but from our understanding, it can’t be driven and has to stay at the dealership until the ZR1s are officially declared released to their owners by GM.

As for the build specs, it’s a Black Split-Window Coupe with the Tension/Twilight Blue interior, Visible Carbon Fiber aero kit with the High Wing, and Blue aluminum wheels. It also has the cool blue dual racing stripes down the length of the car.

Rick Hendrick is also getting the VIN 002 Corvette ZR1 & understanding is that it’s a Black hardtop convertible that mirrors this VIN 001 Coupe.