Vyper340

Why can't the valet mode also limit the performance of the car and not just activate the PDR? It is possible on some other vehicles since it is an electronically controlled feature. Given the nature of these vehicles, wouldn't it provide piece of mind for the owner to set and know the vehicle cannot be used to its capability when a feature like this is activated? The PDR option is nice but it will only show what a "valet" did when it's too late. That's similar to driving a car looking in the rear view mirror...

Bill Dearborn

The C4 ZR1 had a key operated valet mode which shut off half of the intake valves. Not sure how often it was used. In the 22 years since that car went out of production not many people have asked for a Valet Switch on the Corvette.

The way I see it having such a switch is just another place for a failure to occur. Since the switch isn't especially useful to most drivers eliminate the switch and you eliminate the potential failure.

Bill

Redc8z06

Why not just put it in 4 cylinder mode.........

VetteLooking

I believe I was at a seminar at the NCM where this question was asked and answered. My recollection of the engineers response was that this would be a distinct software calibration for the engine. Certainly it would need to move through the normal development process for validation.

Beyond this, the larger issue is that this mode would need to be validated for fuel economy, emissions, etc. to the latest government regulations. These regulations and the costs of qualification are much different than they were when the C4 ZR1 was designed and manufactured.

The summary was that, although this is interesting and potentially useful, the larger market would not value the feature at the amortized cost. A statement was made that, even though many are forced to do so, more Corvette owners never hand over their keys to anyone.

As a design professional, I can very much understand that, even though it sounds simply to apply, the hidden costs of design, development, and regulation are often high.

JW Gears

Perhaps with the anti-regulation movement in Washington, all the complex regs can be eliminated? There are other GM cars, trucks, and SUV's that could benefit from a true valet mode. If that is still not feasible, how about an OnStar feature that notifies an owner now long the Corvette, Camaro, Escalade, or any other car ran and where it is parked? Unauthorized use can be documented immediately, and the owner can take steps to remedy the situation with the Valet. This could be another reason to have your car equipped with OnStar, and another reason an owner would want to subscribe to OnStar. Just a thought.