Craig Lowndes debuts Corvette in Australia
Seven-time Bathurst 1000 winner, Craig Lowndes, has driven a left-hand drive variant of the Corvette C8 at The Bend Motorsport Park, an Australian track debut for the iconic sportscar.
“It’s stunning,” said Lowndes. “I know that what I did was a demonstration run, but I gave it a workout. I think it was a bit over 240km/h into turn one, and coupled with the paddle shift, the car all works extremely smoothly.”
The first shipment of the 6.2-litre V8 right-hand-drive MY22 Corvette, made at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky, will start in Q4.
Every Corvette coming to Australia and New Zealand will feature the Z51 Performance Package and Front Lift as standard.
“Corvette is an iconic car, understandably there is huge interest in this exciting new model and there is massive anticipation building – we have every expectation it will more than live up to its legendary status.,” added Lowndes.
The Corvette was introduced in 1953 and this, the eighth generation, is the first to feature a mid-engine configuration and – most importantly for Australian and New Zealand performance-car enthusiasts – will be the first time it is available as factory-built right-hand-drive.
The Z51 package includes performance dual-mode exhaust, performance suspension with Magnetic Selective Ride Control, larger Brembo brakes, electronic-limited slip differential, a front splitter, rear fascia-mounted spoiler, extra cooling provisions and specific rear axle ratio.
Complementary to the engine performance, the C8 Corvette is two inches wider and sits slightly lower than its predecessor, improving the overall downforce afforded by the vehicle and subsequently sees the handling, acceleration, braking, and forward visibility evolve significantly.
“We are excited that the C8 Corvette is making a brief on-track appearance at The Bend,” said Joanne Stogiannis of General Motors Australia.
“Staging its first glimpse at the track speaks to our racing heritage and also provides a reminder of the legendary performance credentials of the Corvette.”
“Anticipation is building ahead of the C8’s launch in Australia and New Zealand and seeing it in the flesh for the first time – albeit it very briefly – will only add to the increasing levels of excitement,” added Stogiannis.
Australia and New Zealand will receive the 2LT and 3LT model in two body styles: coupe and convertible.
