It won’t compete this year, but in 2024 the Z06 will run a full season in the GTD Pro category starting with Daytona.
Details of the new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R race car are here, in time for the Rolex 24 At Daytona 2023 event. However, you won’t see this car on the track. That should happen at next year’s race, giving us plenty of time to study Chevrolet’s first FIA-compliant GT3 race car.
Unsurprisingly, the GT3.R shares quite a few points with the Z06 on the road. That includes the aluminum frame pulled straight from the Corvette assembly line. It was sent to Pratt Miller Engineering in Michigan to convert the entire race, starting with the roll cage. Race-specific springs, dampers and brakes are added, although the double wishbone suspension design is the same as the production Z06. The 18-inch wheels are shared with the C8.R race car.
Aerodynamically speaking, the Z06 GT3.R incorporates a variety of new carbon ducts, splitters and diffusers to enhance airflow, cooling and downforce. The large rear spoiler is a new detail for this car, but the side air intakes are what you’d find on a street-legal Z06. The same goes for the hood and engine cover, but like the wheels, the hood is the product of the C8.R push rod.
Speaking of engines, you’re probably wondering how much power the racing version of the high-revving 5.5-liter DOHC V8 produces. Unfortunately, that’s a detail Chevrolet isn’t willing to reveal at this point, but it will be less powerful than the production Z06. IMSA regulations limit maximum horsepower to 600, well below the V8’s 668 horsepower on the street. Chevy says the racing version shares more than 70% of its components with the standard 5.5L engine.
When the Z06 GT3.R finally takes to the track in 2024, it will be available for private teams to purchase and race. Customers will have on-track support from Corvette Racing in the form of parts and engineering expertise.
“The Corvette Z06 GT3.R breaks new ground for Chevrolet and the Corvette Racing program,” said Mark Stielow, director of GM Motorsports Engineering Competition. “This customer-focused race car leverages learnings from throughout Corvette Racing’s lengthy and successful history, plus the expertise of our Corvette production design, engineering, and powertrain teams.”
