General Motors is using the latest variant of the ‘Vette that was launched at Geneva to raise cancer awareness and charity funds.

The very first retail production Corvette Grand Sport Collector’s Edition (VIN #001) will cross the auction block at the Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach, Florida auction, with all the proceedings benefiting the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute – together with an additional $400,000 grant provided by the GM Foundation.

This isn’t GM’s first donation towards cancer research, as the conglomerate also offered a Cadillac CT6 last year to the same cause, raising $200,000 in the process.

The Collector’s Edition features a Watkins Glen Gray Metallic exterior with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and an exclusive Tension Blue full leather and suede-wrapped interior. According to Chevrolet, the Tension Blue color is a bold, modern take on the hue historically associated with the Grand Sport models. The cabin has its own unique features as well, such as a three-dimensional representation of an original Grand Sport race embossed in the headrests, an instrument panel plaque, and driver-centric Tension Blue leather and suede wrapped interior with blue accent stitching.

Otherwise, it’s identical to the non-limited run Grand Sport, which retains the stock Stingray’s 460 horsepower and 465 pound-feet (630 Nm) V8 but comes with uprated brakes, sports suspension and wider rubber for improved performance on the track.

Additionally, buyers can add the Z07 performance package that includes carbon-ceramic brakes, Michelin Sport Cup 2 summer tires and a carbon-fiber aero package that delivers more downforce.

PHOTO GALLERY