- SVE has extensively modified the 6.2-liter LT2 V8.
- A pair of 58 mm Garrett turbochargers boosts output.
- Yenko/SC retains the E-Ray’s standard electric motor.
The new all-wheel-drive, twin-turbocharged hybrid V8 ZR1X pushed the Corvette deep into hypercar territory, a place few would have imagined just a decade ago. It marks a turning point for a nameplate defined by attainable performance. Now, Specialty Vehicle Engineering has taken the Chevy C8 platform to even greater heights, extracting more power than even a Bugatti Chiron can deliver.
The base for SVE’s latest Yenko project is the hybrid Corvette E-Ray, which is considered one of the better C8 variants for street use, even if it remains somewhat underappreciated. To elevate it from the middle of the Corvette lineup to a position beyond even the 1,250-horsepower ZR1X, SVE has comprehensively reworked the engine.
Read: GM Dealers Will Sell You A 1,000 HP Corvette Yenko S/C
The 6.2-liter V8 has been overhauled with forged aluminum pistons, ARP high-strength head and main studs, a custom camshaft, a new intake manifold, bespoke valve covers with integrated oil separators, a forged steel crankshaft, and forged H-beam rods. A pair of 58mm-ceramic-ball-bearing, water-cooled turbochargers has also been added to complete the transformation.
Engineering For Four Figure Output
Paired with the E-Ray’s front-mounted electric motor, the twin-turbo V8 helps the Yenko/SC E-Ray produce a terrifying 1,564 hp, or 64 hp more than the Bugatti Chiron. To handle this power, the dual-clutch eight-speed transmission has been upgraded, and there’s a boost-by-gear function, ensuring the car can put all of its power to the ground.
SVE has yet to release official performance figures, but given the output and the all-wheel drive system, it has the potential to surpass even the ZR1X, with quarter-mile times that could dip into the low 8-second range.
What Else Has Changed?
Work on the car appears to be ongoing, as the company has so far released only a single low-resolution rendering of the finished product. It indicates the Corvette will receive custom forged 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, a unique graphics package, and new emblems.
A custom exhaust, painted brake calipers, and several interior upgrades, including new floor mats and scuff plates, are also planned.
The tuner says it will offer a 3-year/36,000-mile (60,000 km) warranty for the new twin-turbo engine, so owners can relax knowing the company will pick up the tab if something goes wrong. Once those 3 years expire, however, it might be wise to keep a healthy stash on standby. After all, the LT2 was never designed to produce this kind of power.
