Chevy has officially shown off the all-new Corvette C8.R, in a surprise unveil Wednesday evening at Kennedy Space Center.

The mid-engined GTE-spec car, which was first revealed last year, was presented to assembled media during the launch of 2020 Corvette Stingray convertible, with Corvette factory driver Tommy Milner driving the car onto the stage.

As expected, the car will make its debut in the 2020 Rolex 24 at Daytona ahead of an anticipated full-season campaign in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

Wednesday’s event marked the first public appearance for the Pratt & Miller-built machine, which has been under development for more than two years and has completed numerous on-track tests, including outings at Road America, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta and Sebring International Raceway.
“The C8.R is much more than just a race-tuned version of the 2020 Corvette Stingray

It’s a culmination of many years of testing and development between GM Design, Propulsion, Engineering and the Corvette Racing team,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. vice president of Performance and Motorsports.

“The collaboration between these teams has allowed us to take these vehicles’ performance to the next level, both on the street and the track.”
Technical details on the car have not yet been revealed, although Sportscar365 understands a formal presentation will be made during next week’s season-ending Motul Petit Le Mans, where the car will also be on display.

Despite initial speculation of a turbocharged engine, multiple sources have indicated that the car features a 5.5-liter flat-crank V8 powerplant, although it is yet to be confirmed by GM.

New Silver Color for No. 4 Corvette

In a move away from its traditional yellow color scheme, the No. 4 Corvette will feature a predominately silver paint color, inspired by the color of iconic Corvette concepts such as the 1973 Chevrolet Aerovette & the 1959 Corvette Stingray Racer.
The design is complemented by yellow accents, with the No. 3 Corvette set to run in a reverse color scheme showcasing the brand’s traditional yellow alongside the silver accents.

GM has yet to confirm its driver lineup for 2020, although as reported last month, Jordan Taylor is set to replace Jan Magnussen in the team’s full-season roster, with the Dane’s contract reportedly not having been renewed for next year.