US
based GM Chevrolet has introduced the 2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible, a car that
generates 625bhp of power and horsepower
and an astounding 861NM of torque. The Z06 is also the most powerful
convertible ever produced by Chevrolet.
“The
Z06 Convertible is a world-class supercar in every sense,” said Mark Reuss,
executive vice president, Global Product Development. “Only a handful of
convertibles in the world bring more than 600 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of
torque. Even fewer can match the advanced technologies, aerodynamic design, and
visceral driving experience of the Z06 Convertible,” he said in a press
statement.
This
is the first Z06 Convertible offered
from the factory since 1963 when the Z06 option package was introduced for
endurance racing. Records show only 199 Corvette orders with a Z06 package that
year, including one convertible.
Corvette
chief engineer Tadge Juechter said,“Until recently it was not possible to
create a lightweight, open-roof structure strong enough to cope with the
braking, cornering, and acceleration of Corvette’s top performance models. The
frame for the Z06 convertible leverages advancements in computer-aided
engineering, metallurgy, and manufacturing techniques – many of which were not
available just five years ago.”
The
aluminum structure is 20pc stiffer than the previous, fixed-roof Z06. As there
are no structural reinforcements needed for the Z06 Convertible, its curb
weight is nearly identical to the Z06 Coupe. They also share the same chassis
tuning, powertrain output, driver technologies and equipment options –
including the Z07 Performance Package, which adds Brembo carbon-ceramic matrix
brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres and adjustable front- and
rear-aerodynamic components.
“The
most impressive aspect of the Z06 Convertible may be its performance
bandwidth,” said Juechter, adding that, “Very few cars on the market can match its
combination of extreme, supercar levels of performance; the flexibility for
daily driving and long-distance commuting; and the 360-degree, open-air driving
experience only true convertibles can offer.”
Picture courtesy General Motors
Source GM USA