Several years ago, there were speculations that General Motors might create a distinct brand using the Corvette nameplate, potentially featuring a lineup that included an SUV and a sedan alongside the classic sports car.
However, during a recent episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage,” which showcases the new 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, GM President Mark Reuss clarified that the Corvette will not become an independent brand.
At around the 18:30 mark of the episode, Leno discusses this topic, and Reuss confirms that the Corvette will remain under the Chevy umbrella, as it represents the essence of the Bowtie brand—providing customers with exceptional value, stylish design, and impressive performance.
The complete episode is definitely worth watching, as Reuss shares extensive insights about the new ZR1 and GM as a whole. Viewers also learn about his father, Lloyd E. Reuss, who previously served as GM’s president in the early 1990s, and see his own C2-generation Corvette featured in the episode.
The 2025 Corvette lineup is set to begin deliveries later this year, although the ZR1, unveiled in July, won’t hit showrooms until next year. While Chevy has not announced an official price, it is anticipated to start in the upper $100,000 range. Fully equipped versions could potentially exceed $200,000, marking a first for America’s sports car.
Remarkably, the 1,064-hp ZR1 is not expected to represent the peak of performance for the C8-generation Corvette. Prototypes for a new Zora flagship have already been spotted, which is believed to combine the ZR1’s twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 with the E-Ray’s front electric motor, possibly reaching hypercar-level output.
