C8 Corvette E-Ray Will Be Sold as Coupe and Convertible with Big Sticky Tires

More C8 Corvette E-Ray details emerge as we inch closer to the first Corvette hybrid’s reveal in the coming months.

As the days and weeks go by, we’re learning more and more about the forthcoming C8 Corvette E-Ray. The latest information regarding the first hybrid Corvette comes to us from GM Authority, which has uncovered a pair of tidbits about the model that will undoubtedly be of interest to those that are holding out for the future, electrified Corvette.

First comes the news that the C8 Corvette E-Ray will be available as both a coupe and a convertible, which isn’t a huge surprise. Regardless, both versions will feature the same widebody treatment as the soon-to-be-revealed Z06, which will give it a look befitting of its performance, which should be best the base Stingray in a big way.

As one might expect, that also means the E-Ray will need some large, sticky tires to put its power to the ground effectively. Sources indicate that GM has chosen the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 as the E-Ray’s base tire, which will measure in at 275/30R20 in the front and 345/25R21 in the rear. The base C8 comes equipped with 245/35R19 front tires and 305/30R20 rear rubber, even when optioned with the Z51 package, so it’s clear the widebody treatment makes room for more tire at both ends.

The All-Season 4 — already the standard tire on the base C8 (full review HERE) — is designed to provide optimal grip in both dry and wet conditions and is also capable of using in the ice and snow, though it’s by no means a dedicated winter tire. For those that don’t plan on driving their E-Ray in inclement weather, GM Authority also notes that customers could also have the option to go with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which are solely focused on providing the best dry-weather traction possible.

The C8 Corvette E-Ray will need all the traction it can get from its all-wheel-drive system and meaty tires, given the sort of power it will produce. The E-Ray is expected to mate a pair of electric motors, producing around 50 horsepower each, with the C8’s 6.2L LT2 V8, which is rated to produce 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Total output is expected to come in at around 600 raging ponies.

It’s still unclear when the E-Ray will be fully revealed at this point, though most expect it to happen a few months after the Z06’s debut in October. In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for any new details to emerge.

Photos: Chevrolet

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