Corvette C8.R Goes Testing At Sebring

Sounds of Change

Based on the sound of the C8.R, we are likely no longer dealing with a cross-plane crankshaft--one that fires with every 90 degrees of crankshaft revolution. Obviously, this is all speculation, but if you hone in on the sound, it would appear displacement and crankshaft design have both changed. Displacement has perhaps gone down for racing fuel economy. And the power plant is likely paired with turbochargers for outstanding torque in the low to mid-range with horsepower that soars up top. My guess is a V8 of small(er) displacement with a flat plane crankshaft and two turbos. We'll have to wait and see. 

Watch the video on YouTube.

Night & Day

Night testing is fundamentally different from daytime testing despite seeming similar on the surface. At night, the temperature drops, which means engines breath in denser air. Aerodynamics can also change according to some GT drivers, so you can bet Chevy is taking measurements of everything they can to improve this car's performance before its debut. Tire temperature is a huge variable that changes in cold weather as well, so you can be sure they are measuring and monitoring these parameters closely. It’s all a part of big budget race development. 

>>Join the conversation about the C8.R track testing right here in Corvette Forum.

Exterior to Die For

The C8.R looks absolutely menacing even from these night videos. This car really represents Chevy’s arrival into the forefront of supercar design with a much-needed update to the classic Corvette design. One interesting note is the positioning of the exhaust over the rear diffuser so as to keep airflow clean underneath the vehicle. Nice touch that highlights the difference between road car and race car design.

>>Join the conversation about the C8.R track testing right here in Corvette Forum.

Turbochargers?

Speculation has been made that the new C8 mid-engine variant will have a twin turbo setup. As mentioned previously, I believe this is the case for a number of reasons. From growing social pressures to fuel economy during the race, as well as the benefit of torque and anti-lag systems, there is a very good chance this car has two turbos. 

>>Join the conversation about the C8.R track testing right here in Corvette Forum.

Married to the Game

Corvette Racing is committed to showing that their race cars are nothing short of the pinnacle of motor racing vehicles. When it comes to sports cars, the aim is to leave a legacy and prove to be the undisputed king over Porsche, Audi, or any other brand in the world. If the new C8.R goes anything like it looks and sounds, then the only result will be the materialization of that dream. 

>>Join the conversation about the C8.R track testing right here in Corvette Forum.

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