Filed under: Hybrid, Chevrolet

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept - Click above for a new high-res image gallery
Karl Stracke, General Motors VP of global engineering, has unequivocally denied the recent rumors about a mid-engine version of the next-generation Corvette with a wet-dual-clutch transmission. Stracke spoke with editors at Automotive News and Autoweek and addressed the latest batch of rumors. For decades, speculation about what will be done with a next-generation Corvette invariably pops up almost immediately after a new model is introduced.

For example, a mid-engined Corvette has reportedly been on the cards since at least the mid-'60s, thanks in part to a string of concept and experimental models of that configuration. The last Corvette-badged mid-engine concept was the 1990 CERV-III, but that hasn't stopped the speculation - especially in recent years as the Corvette has gained increased respect among the ranks of high-end sports cars. According to Stracke, "There is no mid-engine in the plans."

The same goes for a the story revealed by a Saab engineer about development of a wet DCT. Automakers are increasingly moving away from wet-clutch gearboxes to dry-clutch units because they are less expensive and more efficient. While Stracke shoots down the wet DCT, no mention is made of a dry-clutch unit... if Chevrolet follows Ferrari and Porsche down the dual-clutch path, that is almost certainly the type we will see.

Stracke also put the kibosh on a V6 Corvette. GM has already announced a direct injected small-block V8 is coming soon for its full-size pickup trucks and the Corvette will no doubt follow. Stracke did acknowledge that a hybrid is a possibility for the sports car and, since competitors are going that way, it wouldn't be out of place.

That said, we want to know what you think - What should power the next Corvette? Click past the break to vote in our informal poll.



[Source: AutoWeek]

Continue reading GM quells Corvette rumors: No mid-engine, maybe a hybrid [w/poll]

GM quells Corvette rumors: No mid-engine, maybe a hybrid [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 12 Aug 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>