WHEN the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette arrives late next year, it will be powered by a technologically advanced, racing-proven 6.2L V-8 delivering an estimated 450 horsepower and helping produce 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) times in less than four seconds. The new Corvette LT1 engine, the first of the Gen 5 family of Small Block engines, combines several advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system. “Our objective for the development of the all-new LT1 was to raise the bar for performance car engines,” said Mary Barra, senior vice president, global product development. “We feel that we have achieved that by delivering a true technological masterpiece that seamlessly integrates a suite of advanced technologies that can only be found on a handful of engines in the world. “What makes this engine truly special is the advanced combustion system that extracts the full potential of these technologies. The art and science behind that combustion system make the Corvette LT1 one of the most advanced V-8 engines in the world,” said Barra. Output, performance, and fuel economy numbers will not be finalized until early next year, but the new LT1 engine is expected to deliver: • The most powerful standard Corvette ever, with preliminary output of 450 horsepower and 610 Nm of torque. • The quickest standard Corvette ever, with estimated 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) performance of less than four seconds. • The most fuel-efficient Corvette ever, exceeding the 2013 EPA-estimated 9.0 L/100km on the highway. “The goal for developing a performance car is delivering greater performance and more power with greater fuel economy and that's what we've achieved,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer.
“By leveraging technology, we are able to get more out of every drop of gasoline and because of that we expect the new Corvette will be the most fuel-efficient 450 horsepower car on the market.” Direct injection is new to engine architecture and is a primary contributor to its greater combustion efficiency. — SG
