Lowndes to test Silverado ZR2 off-road racer concept
Craig Lowndes will analyse the performance of GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) and Chevrolet Racing’s new homegrown Silverado ZR2 concept vehicle. The vehicle points to the latest addition to the brand’s new model portfolio ahead of its Australian launch early next year.
Director of Planning, Network and Motorsport, GM Australia and New Zealand, Tim Price, said the road-going Silverado ZR2 will be a new model to the GMSV line-up for MY23. It will deliver next-level off-road capability direct from the factory, making it the perfect platform for the latest announcement from Chevrolet Racing.
“What started as a passion project 12-months ago across GM teams in Australia and New Zealand quickly transformed into the creation you see today,” said Price.
The off-road racer concept was built at the company’s Port Melbourne workshop by a group of GM employee volunteers. Chevrolet Racing took it to the next level, including exchanged learnings with GM Motorsports Division in the USA and tapping into the knowledge of Hall Racing. This included suspension development from their own 2022 championship winning ZR2 in the gruelling, Best in the Desert off-road racing series.
Initial testing and development will take place early in 2023.
GM ANZ employee, Mark Wakeman, who has been involved in off-road racing for the past 25-years, managed the program.
“I am extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to lead the project and I am grateful for the support GM ANZ management has provided to the team. I would also like to express sincere gratitude to our partners who have been involved in this incredible journey. It demonstrates the dedication and enthusiasm the team at GM ANZ has for a project of this magnitude,” said Wakeman.
The off-road racer concept will be on display at GMSV’s activation at the Adelaide 500 this weekend. It will appear with Corvette Stingray and Chevrolet Silverado models, plus the 3,500hp Chevrolet Racing Pro Slammer drag car.
A C8 Corvette Stingray will be the safety car for support categories at the event.
“We’re incredibly excited to be adding an entirely new model to the line-up,” said GMSV General Manager Marketing and Communications, Jodie Lennon.
ZR2 will feature an enhanced appearance, a new level of technology, and eye-catching aesthetics, increased comfort, and renown performance.
“It will be the new hero in the increasingly popular full-size pick-up segment and we’re super proud to offer it as part of the GMSV range,” added Lennon.
CHEVROLET SILVERADO ZR2
Highlights of ZR2 include front and rear e-lockers, Multimatic DSSV dampers and 33-inch mud terrain tyres. A new, high-approach steel cut front bumper designed for off-road strength, durability and clearance is also included.
ZR2 is distinguished by unique aesthetic cues, including a black chrome grille with a Chevrolet ‘flow-tie’ emblem and raised black hood insert with ZR2 badging. There are also exclusive ZR2 wheel flares, 18-inch gloss black wheels and jet black/Graystone leather-appointed interior with dark trim.
The vehicle will feature a 6.2-litre V8 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
CHEVROLET SILVERADO ZR2 OFF-ROAD RACER CONCEPT
Racing specifications:
● Full national spec roll cage
● Racetech seats and harnesses
● Toyo 35×12.5 18 Open Country MT tyres
● ZR2 Multimatic DSSV Shock absorbers, re-tuned for off road racing
● Chevrolet Performance Exhaust, air intake and heavy-duty driveshaft
● AEV Bison underbody protection
Supporting GM Brands and Partners:
● GMSV
● ACDelco
● GM Certified Repairer Network
● Chevrolet Performance Parts
● B&A Motor Body Repairs
● Nelsigns
● Tyrepower
● Toyo Tires
● Kidd Suave
● AEV
●ToolPRO
● The Creative Ones
