C8 Corvette ZR1 Flexes Its Highly Capable Track Muscles

There’s no debating the C8 Corvette ZR1 is a modern American supercar. After all, the thing can hit 233 mph, blowing away other performance models from this country. But what’s equally or perhaps even more impressive is the new ZR1 setting five lap records at American tracks.

Watch as an SUV gets rear ended into the path of an oncoming train.

Chevrolet recently announced the accomplishment of the enviable feat accomplished by four different drivers. Each one was behind the wheel of a pre-production Corvette ZR1 with the optional ZTK Performance Package installed.

One of those tracks was Watkins Glen Long Course at Watkins Glen International in Schuyler County New York, often referred to as “The Glen.” Bill Wise, Lead Performance Engineer for Chassis Controls, was behind the wheel, clocking an impressive 1:52.7.

Brian Wallace, Led Vehicle Dynamics Engineer, piloted the C8 ZR1 Corvette around Road America in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin. He set a lap record at a scorching 2:08.6.

The American supercar also ran Road Atlanta, which is situated in Hall County, Georgia just north of Braselton, clocking a red hot lap record of 1:22.8. Chris Barber, Lead Development Engineer, was the driver.

Aaron Link, Global Vehicle Performance Manager, was able to set two lap records at Virginia International Raceway in Alton, Virginia. One was the Full Course at 1:47.7. The second was for the Grand Course at 2:32.3.

This development reminds us of back in 2015 when the Dodge Viper ACR set lap records at 13 different racetracks. While Mopar fans will eagerly point out their super snake racked up more records, perhaps the Corvette ZR1’s victory run isn’t over yet? Either way, we love seeing American performance cars strut their stuff like this, especially on home turf.

The name of the game with the ZTK Performance Package is aero. The package includes that tall rear wing for increased downforce, front drive planes, hood gurney lip, plus underbody strakes. All pieces are made of carbon fiber. Plus, the suspension is tuned with stiffer springs and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R ZP tires are added.

Image via Chevrolet