The couple had owned the Hyundai Genesis for 9 months and the Z06 for only a few hours when all hell broke loose on a rainy Massachusetts freeway after leaving the Chevy dealership. A quick shift in traffic necessitated a quick reversal of speed from 60 mph down to 30 mph; a change his wife unfortunately did not notice. She barreled into the rear of the Z06 which then, under the slippery conditions, ran into the car next in line, resulting in just over $16,000 in damage to the Genesis and nearly $10,000 for the Z06.

Below are some of the highlights of the Z06 repair bill:

headlamps (HID) @ $992.21 a piece x 2
impact bar & energy asorber @ $765.49
front grille @ $144.07
fog lamp assy @ $168.15
radiator assy @ $549.05
air quality sensor @ $238.50
temp sensor @ $46.29
fan assy @ $425.18
condensor @ $342.58
hood @ $614.04
fenders @ $312.28 x 2
windshield @ $785.81

The $26,000 repair estimate doesn't include the car that the Z06 hit. Add it all up and this family's got one hell of an insurance rate spike coming their way. According to Zedbuyers the "morale of the story is don't let the wife follow you, and for god's sakes don't run the front of one of these things (Z06) into anything."

We'd listen to the man. Well, about the whole running the front of one of these things into anything. The sexist drivel? Not so much. [via GenesisOwners]

Teal Metts (Yes, his real name) is the owner of this 2007 Corvette Z06 C6-R replica featuring authentic Corvette Racing-approved graphics, custom front splitter, molded fiberglass rocker panels, waterfall hood, functional tow hooks, custom wheels and a big racy rear wing. He also modified the engine's computer, induction and exhaust (the later, by removing the stock mufflers) for that authentic race car sound. We think it just sounds dirty.

The requisite hot bikini model on hand, Destiny Monique, had this to say about her experience with the car:

Hello, my name is Destiny Monique and I looove this car because I really like fast cars and what else could I be shooting with that's better than a Corvette? I really, really like fast, hot, nice cars.

Well, Destiny, we can think of a few cars better than this Corvette, but we won't worry your pretty little head with that.

[via corvetteconti]

Swapping large displacement V8s into small roadsters has always been a favorite thing to do when we're bored in the States, but the idea of swapping a 7.0 liter Corvette Z06 LS7 into a small economy car has never really caught on. The guys at Fourdin Auto Sport in Europe must have either gotten really bored or drunk one day and decided to try their hand at the swap. We don't get the super small Chevy Matiz here in the States, but if we did, we're sure a few enterprising young enthusiasts would try just the same.

Corvette-Powered Chevy Matiz At Monza:

The Chevy Matiz originally came equipped with a measly in-line 3 cylinder squirting out an embarrassing 65 horsepower; enough to net you some pretty good gas mileage we're sure. In July of 2007, the Fourdin team set out on a 13 month, 1,500 hour adventure to squeeze the 7.0 liter behemoth in the little clown car. The standard 1 liter engine could reach 60 mph at a crawling pace of just under 22 seconds, but the meaty, snarling 7.0 liter 550 horsepower V8 will get you there in an exotic crowd pleasing 3.7 seconds and will continue on to a terminal velocity of 162 mph.

Yves Fourdin, the project lead and Fourdin Auto Sport founder, had this to say:

"The realization of this project is the result of brains, passion and time. We did it without engineers and without computers, but as a close group of friends with a lot of passion for motorsport. The detail level of the car is therefore absolute. After more than 1 500 hours of work, we are proud of the result."

It just goes to show that without enough brains (and likely enough Heineken), you can turn any little econo-hatchcrap into a insane screaming beast. We want one, like yesterday.

[via autoblog.nl]

Keep in mind a regular 2009 Corvette Coupe 1LT with the Z51 performance package and NPP performance exhaust is $52,305 and a Z06 1LZ is $74,775. What do you think — is it a good value? Here again is what we've been told to expect:

2009 Competition Sport Corvette (RPO CSC)
Chevrolet introduces a new Corvette package available for a limited time

The Competition Sport package is for the Corvette purist and driving enthusiast
Perfect Corvette for the enthusiast who attends driving schools and track events
Focus on lightweight and performance driving
Serious track influenced design features
Excellent value pricing - Limited build scheduled for Spring '09 only

Included in the package:
Competition Gray Exterior Stripes, Wheels, and Headlamps
Corvette Racing ‘Jake’ and CSR logos on b-pillar, headrest, and center armrest
-Ebony Interior with titanium embroidery
-Corvette Racing Pedals from GCA
-Special engine cover
-Racing style numbers with number based on build sequence to be installed by customer

Available in either Coupe 1LT with 436 hp or Z06 1LZ with 505 hp versions
-Z06 version available in 17U Blade Silver or 41U Black
Coupe version available in 17U Blade Silver or 10U Arctic White
Coupe version also includes in package:
Z51 Performance Package, NPP Performance Exhaust, Differential Cooler
Head Up Display
Red Painted Brake Calipers
Z06 tall spoiler

This weekend saw the car sell for that staggering sum at the Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction to a private bidder who we're hoping can appreciate the significance of this car. The 'Vette in question was the first delivered from Yenko Chevrolet to Gulf Oil's Grady Davis in October 1962. It was then race prepared for the Puerto Rico Grand Prix where it scored its first class win.

This Gulf Oil-sponsored Z06 became the most successful factory-backed production racing Corvette of the C2 era. Gulf One was a master of the track and managed GT3 wins at Daytona, Danville, Road America, and more. Can we say now how jealous we are of the new owner of this car? Cause we are. A lot. [Corvette Blogger]

Both the Z06 and Coupe 1LT Vettes ordered with the Competition Sport package will get a track focus, which includes competition stripes, wheels and headlamps, an ebony interior, Corvette racing pedals and a special engine cover. As a special treat, the vehicle will also get the Corvette Racing "Jake" and CSR logos.

Any Coupe 1LT ordered with the package will also get the Z51 performance package, performance exhaust, differential cooler, HUD, Z06 spoiler and other goodies, bringing the power to 436 HP and actually increasing the performance. The Z06 will maintain the same mechanicals, including the same 505 HP LS7 V8, making this primarily an aesthetic package.

Given the bad economy, offering these kinds of special packages is probably a decent way
to get customers to pay a premium on cars they're already interested in buying. Of course, just looking like you're ready for the track doesn't mean a 2009 Corvette ZR1 won't still smoke you on the track.

2009 Competition Sport Corvette (RPO CSC)
Chevrolet introduces a new Corvette package available for a limited time

The Competition Sport package is for the Corvette purist and driving enthusiast
Perfect Corvette for the enthusiast who attends driving schools and track events
Focus on lightweight and performance driving
Serious track influenced design features
Excellent value pricing - Limited build scheduled for Spring '09 only

Included in the package:
Competition Gray Exterior Stripes, Wheels, and Headlamps
Corvette Racing ‘Jake’ and CSR logos on b-pillar, headrest, and center armrest
-Ebony Interior with titanium embroidery
-Corvette Racing Pedals from GCA
-Special engine cover
-Racing style numbers with number based on build sequence to be installed by customer

Available in either Coupe 1LT with 436 hp or Z06 1LZ with 505 hp versions
-Z06 version available in 17U Blade Silver or 41U Black
Coupe version available in 17U Blade Silver or 10U Arctic White
Coupe version also includes in package:
Z51 Performance Package, NPP Performance Exhaust, Differential Cooler
Head Up Display
Red Painted Brake Calipers
Z06 tall spoiler

Don’t miss this special opportunity - Order the Coupe 1LT and Z06 1LZ with CSC

The new design looks to feature a ZR1-style side scoop design, but unfortunately, due to a lack of rear shots, we've no idea whether the rear gets the same googly-eyed taillights as the last model. n2a's bringing both a coupe and a convertible version of the Anteros, with the black convertible built using a stock 2009 Corvette donor car. The drop-top features the 430 HP, 424 lb-ft of torque LS3 V8 under the hood. The silver coupe, pictured above and below, goes a bit farther up the performance stream, thanks to the donor body — a 2009 Corvette Z06, modified with Lingenfelter’s 630 HP performance package. All base models include a carbon composite body, hand-stitched leather interior, three-piece aluminum wheels, and a custom cat-back exhaust system. The best part? Chevrolet’s 100,000 mile powertrain warranty remains completely intact and the Anteros can be serviced at any GM dealership. Pricing for the turnkey Anteros coupe starts at $149,500 and the Anteros convertible starts at $154,500. Want to go for the high-powered version? Anteros coupes built on the Z06 platform start at $176,500. Performance packages ranging from 525-1000+ horsepower are available for an additional cost. Full press release below.

SANTA ANA, California, November 10, 2008 – n2a Motors, Inc. announced today that it will debut its latest model, the Anteros, at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 21st.

Continuing a tradition of unique styling and impressive performance, the Anteros is built on the new 2009 Corvette platform and features a body reminiscent of iconic Italian designs. Built from modern lightweight carbon fiber, the Anteros is available with a variety of performance and appearance options. n2a Motors is taking orders for January 2009 deliveries.

n2a Motors will be displaying the first production convertible and coupe versions of the Anteros in their exhibit. The black convertible is built using a stock 2009 Corvette donor car, featuring the 430 hp/424 lb.-ft. torque LS3 V8 engine that gets 16 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The silver coupe is based on a 2009 Corvette Z06 and is modified with Lingenfelter’s 630 horsepower performance package. All base models include a carbon composite body, hand-stitched leather interior, three-piece aluminum wheels, and a custom cat back exhaust. Chevrolet’s 100,000 mile powertrain warranty remains completely intact and the Anteros can be serviced at any GM dealership.

Each Anteros takes approximately 12 weeks to build from the time of order. n2a Motors starts by removing the donor Corvette’s body panels and installing the new carbon-composite Anteros body, a process that takes nearly 800 hours for n2a’s coachbuilding craftsmen to complete. The interior is entirely new with re-contoured leather seats, leather dash, Italian carpeting, and leather-wrapped interior panels, while the wheels and exhaust are removed and replaced with n2a’s custom-made components. The turnkey Anteros Coupe starts at $149,500 and the Anteros Convertible starts at $154,500. Anteros Coupes built on the Z06 platform start at $176,500. Performance packages ranging from 525-1000+ horsepower are available for an additional cost.

The Anteros is the follow-up to n2a Motors’ 789 model that debuted to critical acclaim at the New York International Auto Show in March 2008. Inspired by the designs of the 1957, 58, and 59 Chevrolets, the 789 was hailed as “merely the coolest car…on the planet” by the New York Times. The 789 is also built on the C6 Corvette platform and utilizes a carbon composite body. Coupe 789 models start at $139,500 and the convertible base model is $144,500. A convertible 789 will also be on display at the LA Auto Show.

The LA Auto Show is held at the Los Angeles Convention Center from November 21-30, 2008. n2a Motors can be found at the LA Auto Show in booth number K-620 in the Kentia Hall.

The 638 HP 2009 Corvette ZR1's price of $103,000 (let's pretend for a moment vagaries such as dealer markup don't exist) has a cost per HP of $162. While not the best deal on price per HP, it's still a steal. But this pricing on the 2008 Corvette Z06 brings the cost per HP war to a whole new level — dropping the already amazingly value-rrific cost per HP down from $143 (already lower than the Nissan GT-R and Dodge Viper according to our official Jalopnik "By The Numbers" comparison chart ) to the staggeringly bargain level of $124 per HP!

The Z06 was already the over-used "value champ," (We need a quarter jar for every time we're using the word value in this post, don't we?) but this new deal truly offers the chance to bring high horsepower to the masses. There's simply no better deal out there. Even Suze Orman would approve.

KATECH PERFORMANCE UNVEILS LIGHTWEIGHT Z06 FOR THE TRACK
New ClubSport Package Shaves Pounds to Shave Seconds off Lap Times

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Katech Performance, ever attuned to the collective conscious of the Corvette universe, knew this – enthusiasts wanted a lighter weight Z06 tuned for the track. Now they have it.

The Corvette Z06 ClubSport package – available exclusively from Katech Performance and Les Stanford Chevrolet (Dearborn, Mich.) – incorporates an array of aftermarket products that, in unison, reduce curb weight to 2,915 lbs. (2,825 lbs. fully optimized) while improving grip, cornering, braking and downforce.

“The Z06 is already wonderfully light weight,” commented Jason Harding, performance parts sales, Katech Performance. “We knew, however, that we could improve the power-to-weight ratio with several select modifications. Lamborghini has its Gallardo Superleggera, Ferrari its F430 Scuderia and Dodge its Viper ACR. Now the Corvette Z06 has the ClubSport package from Katech Performance.”

What does one feed Chevrolet’s already well-conditioned athlete to shed pounds and improve its game? The ClubSport diet calls for:

Brembo® Gran Turismo Brake Kit
Two-piece cross-drilled rotors significantly reduce un-sprung rotating mass; front six-piston monobloc calipers squeeze 14-inch rotors; rear four-piston monobloc calipers pinch 13.6-inch rotors

Moton Clubsport Suspension
Double-adjustable coil-overs enhance power-to-the-pavement delivery while offering seven individually adjustable rebound and compression settings; system is specially tuned by Moton engineers and SCCA World Challenge professional driver Andy Pilgrim

Katech Performance ClubSport Wheels
15-spoke, single-piece forged aluminum wheels (18x9.5-inch front; 19x12-inch rear) further reduce un-sprung rotating mass; finished in attractive gray powder coat

Michelin® Pilot® Sport Cup Tires
Enhance grip and handling while reducing total mass (285/30R18 front; 325/30R19 rear)

Katech Performance Appearance Package
Carbon fiber front splitter improves aerodynamics and is complemented by a matching carbon fiber rear spoiler that improves downforce; lift-off carbon fiber World Challenge hood vents the engine compartment, reduces weight by 50% and provides more downforce; ClubSport racing stripe on front fenders and rear fascia identifies vehicle as an exclusive Katech Performance creation

Halltech Killer Bee™ Air Intake
Carbon fiber intake designed specifically to complement Katech Performance’s carbon fiver valve covers

Katech Performance Exhaust System
Lightweight 18-gauge stainless steel design incorporating X-pipe, two lightweight mufflers, over-axle pipes and CORSA® quad tips; reduces weight and produces a deep, racecar-like tone while maintaining a civil pitch on public roads

Exedy Twin-Disc Clutch
Reduces drivetrain mass and makes for easy rev-matched downshifts

Braille Battery
All-season; reduces weight in the rear

Several optional supplements are also available including: Caravaggio leather race seats; A/C and/or radio delete as well as carpet delete to further reduce weight; roll bar or harness bar and six-point harnesses; and an ARE dry sump system.

So what’s the final verdict? A power-to-weight ratio of 5.45 lbs./horsepower (standard) or 5.28 lbs./horsepower (fully optimized).

Complete with a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty, the Katech Performance Z06 ClubSport starts at $109,000 (standard) and is expected to maintain 50-state emissions compliance*. Power plant improvements – including an array of modified LS7 engine packages – are also available for customers who want to upgrade to a true Katech Performance “Street Attack” Z06.

To purchase a brand new ClubSport Z06 from Les Stanford Chevrolet – “America’s Corvette King” – call 800.699.VETT or visit www.lesstanford.com. Already own a 2006-2009 Z06? Bring your Vette to Katech to get started on the ClubSport plan. Call 866.KATECH1 or visit www.katechengines.com.

Katech Performance, the aftermarket performance division of Katech Inc., engineers and manufactures race-proven crate engines and components for LS1/LS6 and LS2/LS7 engines including solid belt tensioners, coil relocation brackets, cylinder heads, dampers, pistons, push rods, throttle bodies and valve covers, among other high-performance products for the street and track.

Katech Inc. was founded on the need to provide responsive service and skills to factory race efforts in all forms of racing, including the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), NASCAR®, SCCA SPEED World Challenge, American Speed Association (ASA) and International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). Today, Katech is an industrial leader in advanced racing and high-performance engine development, manufacturing, testing and assembly, and offers support services for the professional racer including boring, honing, fabrication, welding and prototype parts development.

Katech Performance is located at 24324 Sorrentino Court, Clinton Township, MI, 48035. Contact the company by phone at 866-KATECH1 or visit online at www.katechengines.com.

[Corvette Forums via eGMCarTech]

This will be a return to a familiar place for Fittipaldi, considering he won two CART races at Belle Isle, in 1989 and 1991. The Corvette itself is pretty slick in its color-shifting paint, moving between gold and green. Way better than the '98 Corvette Indy Pace Car dressed in terrifying purple and yellow. It's kind of shocking, but even the light bar up top is kinda cool. That right there is one fine-looking pace car.

There will be three engine packages available for the Z03, with horsepower ranging from 500 to 750 hp. Prices will be announced in March and the first vehicles will apparently be available to costumers late in 2008. Call us a touch skeptical. [Supercars.net]

Chevrolet's Special '427 Limited Edition Z06' Salutes Classic 427 Corvettes

DETROIT - Chevrolet announced the 2008 Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06, a limited-production model that pays homage to the big-block Stingray models of the mid-1960s. The 427 designation refers to the cubic-inch displacement for the highest-performance engines offered between 1966 and '69 - and is also the cubic-inch equivalent of the Z06's 7.0L LS7 small-block V-8.

The 427 Limited Edition Z06 features a Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior, the first Z06 ever offered with a red metallic tintcoat paint. It also features graphics on the hood and fascia that evoke the style of the famed "stinger" hood design and graphics that were offered with 1967 models equipped with the 427 engine. Also unique to this model are "427" hood badges. Each example is numbered and signed by Wil Cooksey, the Corvette assembly plant manager who is retiring after 15 years on the job, and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

"The heritage of the 427 designation with the Corvette is legendary," said Harlan Charles, Corvette product manager. "Recognizing the tie-in of the original 427 engine and the LS7's 427-inch displacement has been on the Corvette team's mind since the Z06 was introduced, and we're thrilled to express it in this special model."

Available under order code Z44, this special Z06 enters production this spring. Only 427 will be offered in the United States and Canada, with 78 more exported outside North America. That's a total of 505 production vehicles - the same number of horsepower produced by the LS7 engine.

The special-edition Corvette carries a MSRP of $84,195 and includes the 3LZ premium equipment package with a custom, leather-wrapped interior. A navigation system is the only option ($1,750). As with other Corvette models, customer delivery is available at the Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.

A breakdown of the 427 Limited Edition Z06's unique content includes:

* Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior paint with stinger-style graphics and 427 hood badges
* Exclusive, new chrome wheels
* Body-color rear spoiler and door handles
* Exclusive dark titanium custom leather-wrapped interior
* Special Crystal Red interior trim plate graphic pattern
* Console armrest signed and numbered by Wil Cooksey
* "427"-embroidered seats and floor mats
* "Z06" sill plates

The 427 Limited Edition Z06 joins the Indy 500 Pace Car replica - available in coupe and convertible configurations - as the second limited-production Corvette model introduced for 2008, giving enthusiasts and collectors a wealth of choices. In January, Chevrolet also announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1, which enters production later this summer.

"There's never been a better time to be a Corvette enthusiast," said Charles. "The performance and refinement are exemplary and special editions, like the 427 model, enrich the heritage of America's sports car."

Corvette Z06 details

The Corvette Z06 that is the foundation for the 427 Limited Edition offers carefully executed levels of capability and technology, making it one of the best performance values on the market.

The Z06's LS7 7.0L engine reintroduced the 427-cubic-inch engine to the Corvette lineup. It uses racing-derived lightweight technology, including titanium connecting rods and intake valves, to help boost horsepower and rpm capability - it is rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW).* The only transmission offered with the Z06 is a six-speed manual.

In the car's 3,162-pound (1,437 kg) package, the LS7 engine helps deliver 0-60 mph performance of 3.7 seconds in first gear, quarter-mile times of 11.7 seconds at 125 mph and a top speed of 198 mph (as recorded on Germany's Autobahn) - the Z06 also circuited Germany's famed N ü rburgring racetrack in a time of 7:43.

The Z06 has a unique aluminum body structure for optimum stiffness and light weight for the fixed-roof body style. Perimeter rails are one-piece hydroformed aluminum members featuring cast suspension nodes, which replace many welded steel components on other Corvette models. Advanced structural composites featuring carbon fiber are bonded to the aluminum structure. Wider front wheelhouses, for example, are carbon composites and the passenger compartment floors combine carbon-fiber skins with an ultra-lightweight balsa wood core.

A firm, race-proven suspension works harmoniously with large 18 x 9.5-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels and 275/35ZR18 tires in the front, and 19 x 12-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels with 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear to achieve lateral acceleration of more than 1 g. Complementing the suspension system and large rolling stock is an equally capable four-wheel disc brake system, consisting of 14-inch (355 mm) vented and cross-drilled front rotors and 13.4-inch (340 mm) vented and cross-drilled rear rotors.

The front rotors are acted upon by large, red-painted six-piston calipers that use six individual brake pads. Individual brake pads are used because they deliver more equalized wear compared to what would otherwise be a pair of very long single-piece pads. For the rear brakes, four-piston calipers with four individual brake pads are used. A Delphi four-channel ABS system is standard, as is a very competent active handling system - complete with a Competitive Driving mode.

History of the Corvette and the 427 engine

The Chevrolet Mark IV V-8 debuted in the Corvette in 1965 and was dubbed the big-block, because it was physically larger in all respects than Chevy's other V-8 engine, which became known as the small-block. In '65, the big-block was offered in a 396-cubic-inch displacement, with a maximum rating of 425 gross horsepower (317 kW). In 1966, the big-block received larger cylinder bores and grew to its legendary 427-cubic-inch form. It came in two power levels: 390 hp (291 kW) and 425 hp.

By 1967, the Corvette's 427 engine was a legend in its own time and was offered with a unique induction system that featured an inline trio of two-barrel carburetors. Known as the "L71" (its order code), it was characterized by a large, chrome triangular air cleaner assembly. It was rated at 435 gross horsepower (324 kW). The '67 big-block Corvettes were easily distinguished from their small-block brethren by a raised "stinger" hood.

A handful of Corvettes with the "L88"-code 427 engine slipped out of the factory in 1967, each rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW), but the L88 would be more closely associated with the redesigned 1968 and '69 models. The L88 breathed through a single four-barrel carburetor rather than the L71's three two-barrels. The triple-carburetor induction system was still available, however, as the Corvette was offered with both the L88 and L71 versions of the 427.

No less than six versions of the engine were offered in 1969, the final year for the 427. They included the L88, the L71 and a very rare ZL1 427 that was built with a lightweight aluminum cylinder block. Only two regular-production Corvettes were built with the ZL1 engine, putting them on the short list of the most collectible Corvettes in history.

The big-block increased in size to 454 cubic inches in 1970, and the original big-block engine family exited the Corvette lineup after the 1974 model year. The 2008 Corvette Z06's LS7 engine offers big-block displacement and horsepower, but in a more efficient small-block architecture.

*SAE certified.

Chevrolet Unveils Two Unique '08 Corvette Indy 500 Pace Cars

Two-time Indy 500 Champion Emerson Fittipaldi to Drive Corvette Z06 E85 Concept Pace Car at 92nd Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS - Known for their charismatic designs and superior performance, the pack-leading pace cars share a special place in Indianapolis 500 lore. History will be made at the 2008 Indianapolis 500 when a pair of distinctive yet highly differentiated Corvette models will serve as the official pace cars - one highlighting Chevrolet's commitment to fuel solutions and the other marking 30 years of Corvette's pace car heritage.

Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials gathered at the Indianapolis Auto Show to make the historic announcement.

One of the pace cars is a customized Corvette Z06 E85 concept that runs on E85 ethanol fuel, a domestically produced alternative fuel similar to the E100 fuel that powers all of the racecars in the IndyCar Series. It will be driven during the race's pace lap by two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Emerson Fittipaldi.

The other official pace car is a black-and-silver commemorative edition that marks the 30th anniversary of the celebrated 1978 pace car - the first Corvette to pace the field at the Indianapolis 500. Chevrolet will produce a total of 500 pace car replicas in both coupe and convertible form, each signed personally by Fittipaldi at the Corvette's Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant.

"Although not a production FlexFuel vehicle, the Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car is a high-performance example of Chevrolet's gas-friendly to gas-free initiative, demonstrating viable fuel solutions," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "As an ethanol refiner in his native Brazil, Emerson Fittipaldi is the fitting Chevrolet champion to help support GM's efforts with E85 and celebrate 30 years of the Corvette pacing the Indianapolis 500."

The 92nd Indianapolis 500 takes place on Sunday, May 25, 2008. It will be the Corvette's 10th appearance as the official pace car - a record unmatched by any other vehicle.

"It's only fitting that Corvette will be the first car to earn the distinction of having two models pace the Indianapolis 500 in the same year," said Joie Chitwood, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president and chief operating officer. "Chevrolet and Corvette are a vital part of the rich history of 'The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,' and we're honored to have a great champion of the race and of alternative fuels, Emerson Fittipaldi, as this year's pace car driver."

Corvette Z06 E85 concept
The Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car is based on the production Z06 - already one of the fastest and most powerful cars on the market - and blends its performance with the high-octane, renewable alternative fuel that is derived from a variety of crops grown across the United States.

E85 is blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Its benefits include reduced emissions of greenhouse gases and a reduced dependence on petroleum. GM is the leader in E85 production models, with more than 2.5 million E85-capable cars, trucks and SUVs on the road - with more on the way. Chevrolet offers seven E85-capable models in 2008.

Apart from the fuel system and powertrain controller revisions required to run E85, the Z06 concept pace car is mechanically stock. It is distinguished by a unique Gold Rush Green color-shifting paint scheme that changes between hues of green and gold when viewed from different angles and in different light. A subtle checkered flag pattern also is part of the paint scheme. Safety equipment and strobe lights are the only other equipment added to the car.

Emerson Fittipaldi: ambassador of racing and ethanol
After winning the Indianapolis 500 in 1989 and 1993 while driving for Chevrolet - and spending 30 years in his native Brazil as a refiner of ethanol - Emerson Fittipaldi is the perfect ambassador to lead the Indianapolis 500 in an E85-powered Corvette Z06.

"Most of the vehicles in Brazil are powered by ethanol produced from crops grown in the country, so I understand how a domestically produced renewable fuel can help the energy solutions of a nation," Fittipaldi said. "And the E85-powered Z06 concept pace car proves economic and environmental consciousness can be fun and exhilarating. I can't wait to get it on the racetrack."

Fittipaldi, whose personal cars include a Corvette Z06 and a Camaro awarded after winning the 1993 Indianapolis 500, resides in both Florida and Brazil. He has interests in several Brazilian ethanol companies and is an ardent champion of ethanol as a viable alternative to gasoline.

Brazil - the fifth-largest country in the world - is a global leader in ethanol usage in automobiles. Approximately 70 percent of Brazilian new cars are equipped with FlexFuel systems that allow the use of a gasoline/ethanol mix or pure ethanol. Ethanol production has grown tremendously during the last three decades and has allowed the country to practically wean itself completely from imported oil.

30th Anniversary commemorative edition
Commemorating one of the most recognizable Indianapolis 500 pace cars, the Corvette 30th Anniversary Pace Car features a black exterior with silver graphics that honors the 1978 model - the production replicas of which became instant collectibles and continue to stand as an iconic symbol of Corvette's heritage at the front of the Indy field.

In addition to the exterior color scheme, the anniversary models are equipped with a special, two-tone titanium-color interior, with the Indianapolis 500 logo embroidered on the seats. Coupe and convertible models are available. Each replica will be personally signed and numbered by Emerson Fittipaldi.

Both the coupe and convertible come equipped with Corvette's 3LT option package, Z51 performance package and dual-mode exhaust. Additional features include:

* Choice of six-speed manual or six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmissions
* LS3 small block V8 with 436 hp
* New-for-2008 forged chrome five-spoke aluminum wheels
* Corvette Z06 rear spoiler
* Silver checkered flag graphics
* Indy 500 logo fender badges

More information on pricing and availability will be announced a later date.

Corvette at Indy
The 2008 edition of the Indianapolis 500 represents Corvette's 10th time as the official pace car - and a record fifth-consecutive year - and Chevrolet's 19th time as the manufacturer selected to lead the field. Corvette's pace years and details include:

* 1978 - Driven by 1960 race winner Jim Rathmann; Chevrolet produced 6,502 production replicas
* 1986 - Driven by famed pilot Chuck Yeager; all 7,315 production convertibles were considered pace car convertibles and included official graphics (to be installed at the owner's discretion)
* 1995 - Driven by then Chevrolet General Manager Jim Perkins; 527 production replicas produced
* 1998 - Driven by 1963 race winner Parnelli Jones when an injury prevented golfer Greg Norman from performing the duty; 1,158 production replicas produced
* 2002 - Driven by actor Jim Caviezel; no production replicas produced but graphics were available through SPO - approximately 300 sets sold
* 2004 - Driven by actor Morgan Freeman; no production replicas produced
* 2005 - Driven by General Colin Powell; no production replicas produced
* 2006 - Driven by cycling champion Lance Armstrong; first Corvette Z06 pace car; no production replicas produced
* 2007 - Driven by actor Patrick Dempsey; 500 production replicas - all convertibles
* 2008 - Driven by Emerson Fittipaldi; 500 production replicas - coupes and convertibles

The Indianapolis 500 is the largest single-day spectator sporting event and the most prestigious auto race in the world. "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" has been run every year since 1911 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, except for the periods during the United States' participation in world wars in 1917-18 and 1942-45. The winner of the 92nd Indianapolis 500 will earn racing immortality, a spot on the famed Borg-Warner Trophy and a record winner's purse of at least $2.5 million.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

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High Performance: Chevrolet Corvette - 50% Sedan: Honda Civic - 52% Coupe: Infiniti G37 Coupe - 52% Convertible: Mini Cooper Convertible - 50% Wagon: Scion xB- 52% Hatchback: Scion tC - 52% Luxury: BMW 6-Series - 50% Pickup: Toyota Tundra - 41% SUV: Acura MDX - 49% Minivan: Honda Odyssey - 39% Hybrid: Honda Civic Hybrid - 45%

[KBB via CNN Money]