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Chevrolet lifts lid on Corvette Stingray convertible

- All-new Stingray drop-top delivers a no-compromise driving experience
- New LT1 V-8 engine delivers an estimated 450 hp and 610 Nm of torque
- Fully electronic top can be operated with key fob

Chevrolet revealed the 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible today at the Geneva Motor Show. With an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm), the 2014 Stingray is the most powerful standard Corvette in history.

"The convertible has been a part of the heart and soul of Corvette since the very beginning in 1953," said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of global design. "With the all-new Corvette Stingray, we designed and developed the coupe and convertible simultaneously. As a result, the Corvette Stingray offers an open-top driving experience with no compromise in performance, technology or design."

The Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible will arrive in global markets in late 2013. Changes for Corvettes destined for export vary only in equipment required to accommodate the respective markets' regulations, such as lighting, headlamp washers, and outside mirrors.

"It's fitting to introduce the new Stingray convertible on the global stage at Geneva, because Corvette is the face of Chevrolet the world over," said Susan Docherty, president and managing director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe. "It is an icon that has long been recognised and admired even in countries where it's never officially been offered."

All of the performance technology and capabilities introduced on the Corvette Stingray coupe carry over to the convertible. The only structural changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. Central to the Corvette Stingray's driving experience is an all-new, more rigid aluminium frame structure, which is 57 percent stiffer and 45 kg lighter than the current steel frame.

All models are powered by the LT1 6.2L V-8 which churns out an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW). As no structural reinforcements are required for the convertible, both models share almost identical power-to-weight ratios.

The LT1 combines several advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system designed to balance power and efficiency. The new Corvette Stingray is expected to exceed the current model in terms of fuel economy.

The Corvette Stingray convertible features an all-new, fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the key fob. The top can also be opened or closed on the go, at speeds up to 50 km/h.

With the top up, the convertible is designed for a refined driving experience. A thick, three-ply fabric top, along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and premium appearance.

With the top down, the Corvette Stingray's signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the seat backs, dual black accent panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Corvette Stingray's signature "waterfall" design originates in the valley between the nacelles, bringing the exterior color into the interior.

Additional highlights of the all-new Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible include:

A sculptured exterior with advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for improved stability and track capability.

An interior that offers genuine carbon fibre and aluminium trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices - each featuring a lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional support.

Advanced driver technologies, including a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to fit the driver's environment and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time.

Lightweight materials, including a carbon fibre hood on all models and a carbon fibre removable roof panel on coupes; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminium frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio.

Track-capable Z51 Performance Package, including: an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed stability.

"We wanted the driving experience of the Corvette to live up to the performance expectations that come with the ‘Stingray' name," said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. "Because it was designed from the beginning as an open top car, the Corvette Stingray delivers an exhilarating, connected driving experience - no matter what configuration you choose."