Chevrolet shook the automotive world when it introduced its eighth-generation Corvette C8 in 2020. Relocating the Corvette's small-block V8 to its midsection caused quite a stir, but doing so allowed it to reach new performance heights.

Having already added a flat-plane V8, Chevy has expanded the Corvette's powertrain lineup again in 2023 with the addition of the iconic sports car nameplate's first-ever hybrid and all-wheel drive variant, called the E-Ray.

Let's explore what makes Chevy's first AWD hybrid Corvette the most advanced Corvette ever and how it stays true to its decades-long heritage.

How Did the Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Get Its Name?

Just like the standard Corvette Stingray model, the E-Ray draws inspiration from another marine ray: the electric ray, which is known for having the ability to produce an electrical discharge.

The moniker distinguishes the base Corvette Stingray from the new Corvette E-Ray, which is a hybrid car that has both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.

The Corvette E-Ray Isn't a Traditional AWD

In the Corvette E-Ray's engine bay sits a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated LT2 small-block V8. Though the same V8 found in the base Corvette, the E-Ray adds an electric motor and battery to the mix. It sends power from the combustion engine to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

What makes the E-Ray an all-wheel drive vehicle is the electric motor that powers its front wheels. It's therefore not a traditional AWD vehicle where all four wheels are powered by the combustion engine; this solution is similar to how Lexus designs its hybrids.

The Corvette E-Ray Serves Impressive Performance

On its own, the Corvette E-Ray's V8 pumps out 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor adds another 160 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque to the powertrain, for a total output of 655 horsepower and 595 lb-ft of torque.

The electric motor and battery pack add about 200 to 300 lbs to the E-Ray's curb weight (depending on configuration) over the base Corvette and Corvette Z06 models. The E-Ray, however, accelerates from zero to 60 in approximately 2.5 seconds, which is quicker than the Corvette Z06 with a 5.5-liter, naturally aspirated flat-plane V8. It's the combination of instant electric torque and all-wheel drive that gives the E-Ray its remarkable ability to sprint.

What Electric Range Does the Corvette E-Ray Provide?

While the Chevy Corvette E-Ray is not a plug-in hybrid with extended electric range, it can travel short distances using its so-called Stealth Mode. When Stealth Mode is enabled at start-up, it allows drivers to exit their neighborhoods up to a maximum speed of 45 mph. The vehicle's regenerative braking system kicks in when lifting off the gas or braking, and it puts juice back into the battery to keep it charged.

The manufacturer says E-Ray owners should expect between three and five miles of pure electric driving before the V8 has to start.

The Corvette E-Ray also features Shuttle Mode, which allows the vehicle to be moved around at speeds under 15 mph without letting the engine fire up. This is useful for moving a car that has been in storage for a long time when starting the engine may cause damage.

How Sporty Is the Corvette E-Ray?

Despite having the word hybrid attached to it, the 2024 Corvette E-Ray is anything but a gas-saver. It leverages its electric motor and AWD to apply torque to the front axle on demand. This not only helps the E-Ray catapult itself off the line, but it's also useful for aggressive corner exits on track, as well as making the vehicle feel more surefooted in low-grip conditions.

Drivers can adjust the vehicle's behavior by choosing one of six driving modes: Tour, Sport, Track, Weather, My Mode, and Z-Mode. Each mode tailors the amount of electric assist provided while driving, as well as other parameters. In addition to E-Ray's Stealth Mode, a Charge+ mode is available to optimize the battery for track use.

How Much Will the Corvette E-Ray Cost?

The MSRP for the base 2024 Corvette E-Ray 1LZ coupe starts at $104,295; convertible models are priced from $111,295.

For context, a 2023 Corvette Stingray's starting MSRP is approximately $64,500, while the track-focused Corvette Z06 model starts at $105,300.

When Does the Corvette E-Ray Go on Sale?

After unveiling the Corvette E-Ray in January 2023, Chevy says it will go on sale later that year. The performance hybrid will be built alongside its Stingray and Z06 counterparts at the automaker's plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

The Chevy Corvette E-Ray is Built to Boost Performance, Not MPGs

Official fuel economy estimates haven't been released by the EPA, but don't expect the 2024 Corvette E-Ray to save you much at the pump. The E-Ray was designed and built to use its electric motor for maximum performance enhancement in daily driving and on the track. For reference, the standard Corvette C8 is EPA-rated at 18 mpg, while the spicier Z06 variant gets a lower 15 mpg rating.

The latest generation Corvette has changed a lot from those that came before. But don't be fooled—the Corvette E-Ray maintains the powerful spirit of a true American sports car, while also infusing it with extra performance by means of electrification.