The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, the high-performance variant of the revered sports car, has recently claimed a new production vehicle lap record at the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (CTMP) Grand Prix Circuit. The record-breaking lap, accomplished by Canadian racing legend Ron Fellows, was clocked in at a blistering 1:22.12 on the 3.957-kilometre course on May 23, 2023.
2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 | Photo: Chevrolet
Interestingly, this historic feat was timed to coincide with both the opening day of the Chevrolet Grand Prix at CTMP and the 70th anniversary of the iconic Corvette. The Corvette Z06, revered as the pinnacle of sports car performance and track prowess, demonstrated its capability with unparalleled precision during this record-setting lap.
A part of the credit for this staggering performance goes to the Z07 Performance Package equipped on the Z06. Features include a carbon-fibre aero package that enhances downforce, unique FE7 suspension with specific Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 calibrations, Michelin Sport Cup 2 R ZP tires designed explicitly for the Z06, and an advanced Brembo carbon ceramic brake system. The package enables the Z06 to achieve an astonishing 1.22 g of road-hugging grip.
The Z06’s power comes from its all-new, hand-assembled 5.5L LT6 engine, the highest horsepower, naturally aspirated V8 in any production car, ever. This potent combination of power, grip, and aerodynamics, accentuated by Fellows’ expert handling of the Accelerate Yellow 2023 Corvette Z06, has resulted in the remarkable CTMP lap record.
Celebrating the momentous occasion, Ron Fellows expressed his feelings about the achievement and his gratitude towards Chevrolet and the Corvette team. Meanwhile, James Hodge, Chevrolet Brand Director for Canada, praised Fellows and Chevrolet’s partnership in driving the Corvette’s position at the forefront of high-performance sports cars.
This record-setting lap, immortalized on the Corvette’s available Performance Data Recorder, not only confirms the Z06’s position as a track beast and a supercar, but also heralds a promising future for Chevrolet’s performance pedigree. In its 70th year, the fastest Corvette ever made symbolizes a culmination of decades of racing heritage and engineering expertise.
