Chevrolet to Unveil 2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible at New York Auto Show

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible (Credit: © General Motors)

Few things leak more fervently than the product development divisions, of every major automaker, just prior to an impending worldwide debut. This is evidenced by recently revealed photos of the latest high-performance supercar in the Chevrolet stable. It seems that photos of the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible, scheduled to make its worldwide debut during the 2014 New York International Auto Show later this week, have “slipped” out accompanied by an official press release from General Motors. The 2015 Z06 Convertible will be the first drop-top Z06 offered from the factory since 1963, when records indicate that only one was sold. Here’s hoping that the latest Z06, which offers supercar performance, everyday driving practicality, long-distance driving comfort, and a 360-degree open-air driving experience fairs better — we imagine that it will.

The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 represents the latest and most innovative aluminum chassis and frame technologies ever employed in a production vehicle. Using experience gained in 24-hour endurance racing, along with over 180,000 computational hours of development, the 2015 Z06 has been created with a frame which is lighter than steel yet durable enough to withstand the extreme demands of a 600+ horsepower engine. It is comprised of five specially designed frame segments which enable engineers to maximize strength and firmness while minimizing weight and mass.

Rear or 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible (Credit: © General Motors)

The 2015 Z06 incorporates the power retractable convertible top into the overall high-performance focus 0f this car with the ability to open and close at speeds up to 30-mph. The premium thick fabric top will be available in four-colors; all of which offer premium sound deadening properties, and a rear window made of glass, contributing to a quieter cabin in addition to a fantastic appearance.

Nearly every exterior feature of the Z06 is about more than just appearance. Large multi-purpose air-intake vents supply the engine, transmission, differential, and braking system with cooling air, as well as helping to enhance aerodynamic properties. The large flared fenders accommodate the huge “Z” rated Pilot Super Sport tires needed to provide optimum traction for the near competition grade powertrain. A more aggressive aerodynamic package is also offered for those who wish to push the Z06 even closer to “the edge of the knife.” It features a totally adaptable aerodynamic system for increased grip during high-speed cornering maneuvers along with added downforce and stability in the straightaways.

The wheels are specially designed ultra-lightweight spin-cast aluminum, with an open aesthetic to showcase the massive Brembo cross-drilled and vented brake rotors and aluminum four-piston brake calipers. The tires feature the highest speed rating for a street legal rubber of “Z”, in P285/30ZR19 front, and 335/25ZR20 rear.

Under the hood, the most powerful engine ever used in a Chevrolet convertible vehicle, the supercharged 6.2-liter LS4 utilizes direct fuel injection, active fuel management, continuously variable timing, and cylinder deactivation technology to deliver 625-horsepower 635 lb.-ft. of torque and (according to initial reports) surprisingly efficient fuel mileage. Standard equipment is a seven-speed manual transmission but a new 8L90 eight-speed with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters is available, as well. The 2015 Corvette Z06 is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.5-seconds.