Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible debuts
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12th March, 2013
Chevrolet debuted the 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible at the Geneva
Motor Show in Switzerland. The new model, C7 in enthusiast's code, features an all-new, fully electronic top that can be
lowered remotely using the car’s key fob. The top can also be opened or closed on the go, at speeds of up to 50 km/h (30
mph).
“The convertible has been a part of the heart and soul of Corvette since the very beginning in 1953,” said Ed
Welburn, GM vice president of global design. “With the all-new Corvette Stingray, we designed and developed the coupe
and convertible simultaneously. As a result, the Corvette Stingray offers an open-top driving experience with no
compromise in performance, technology or design.”
The 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible arrive in global markets in late 2013, with left-hand-drive models to
be offered in Europe including the United Kingdom, the Middle East, Japan and Russia. Changes to Corvettes for export
vary only in equipment required to accommodate a respective market’s regulations, such as lighting, headlamp washers and
outside mirrors.
All of the performance technology and capabilities introduced on the Corvette Stingray coupe carry over to the
convertible. The only structural changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt
mounts. Central to the Corvette Stingray’s driving experience is an all-new, more rigid aluminium frame structure, which
is 57 per cent stiffer and 45 kilogrammes (99 pounds) lighter than the current steel frame.
All models are powered by the new LT1 6.2L V-8, with an estimated 335kW (450hp) and 610Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. As no
structural reinforcements are required for the convertible, both bodystyles share almost identical power-to-weight
ratios.
The LT1 combines several advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously
variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system designed to balance power and efficiency. The new Corvette
Stingray is expected to improve upon the current model’s fuel economy of 13.6L/100km (EPA-estimated highway fuel economy
of 26 mpg).
With the top up, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible is designed for a refined driving experience. A thick,
three-ply fabric top, along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and neat
appearance.
With the top down, the Corvette Stingray’s signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the seat backs, dual black
accent panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Corvette Stingray’s signature “waterfall” design
originates in the valley between the nacelles, bringing the exterior colour into the interior.
Additional highlights of the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible include:
- A sculpted exterior with advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven
aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for improved stability and track capability
- An interior that offers carbon fibre and aluminium trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual eight-inch configurable
driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices – each featuring a lightweight magnesium frame for support
- Advanced driver technologies, including a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to fit
the driver’s environment and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear
selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time
- Lightweight materials, including a carbon fibre bonnet on all models and a carbon fibre removable roof panel on
coupes; composite front mudguards, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new
aluminium frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class
power-to-weight ratio
- Track-capable Z51 Performance Package, including an electronic limited-slip differential; dry-sump oiling system;
integral brake, differential and transmission cooling; as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed
stability.
“We wanted the driving experience of the Corvette to live up to the performance expectations that come with the
‘Stingray’ name,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “Because it was designed from the beginning as an
open-top car, the Corvette Stingray delivers an exhilarating, connected driving experience – no matter what configuration
you choose.”
E&OE.
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