2014 Chevrolet Corvette is all About the Aero

Purposeful beauty in new design contributes high-speed stability, track capability

When the all-new 2014 Corvette arrives at Crotty Chevrolet next year it will deliver more than just stunning good looks – every line, vent, inlet and surface has been optimized for performance.

“The all-new Corvette integrates more high-performance aerodynamic features than ever before, many taken directly from Corvette Racing,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “For example, the front grill and radiator flow paths reduce lift, improving vehicle stability at high speeds by keeping the car pressed to the pavement. In addition, functional vents increase track capability by channeling air to the brakes, as well as heat exchangers for the transmission and differential.”

To develop the aerodynamic package, engineers started with data gleaned from years of on-track, high-speed performance from the Corvette Racing program – the most successful program ever in the American Le Mans Series and the 2012 GT Class champion. These techniques were applied to the production car using some of the industry’s most advanced computer-aided modeling programs to predict and track airflow over, under and through the new Corvette’s body.

Signature Design Cues Connect 60 Years of Corvettes

New for 2013, the Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition is powered by the 505-hp, 7.0L (427 cid) LS7 V-8 engine – making it the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette’s history. In addition, all Corvette models will be available with a 60th Anniversary package, including exclusive Arctic White exterior with Pearl Silver Blue racing stripes, Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior, and 60th Anniversary logos.

The first Chevrolet Corvette, the XP-122 Motorama concept car, and the latest model, the 2013 Corvette 427 Collector Edition convertible, are separated by 60 years of automotive development and advancement. They do not share a single common component, yet the visual connection between the first and sixth generations is obvious.

While the design cues have changed through six generations, it’s their elemental composition that makes a Corvette look like a Corvette.

“For our Corry, Erie, Warren and Jamestown, NY Corvette drivers and enthusiasts the Corvette’s design represents a distinctive American high-performance sports car,” said Robert Crotty of Crotty Chevrolet Buick. “No matter the year, the Corvette is instantly recognizable to any driver.”

GM Design: 85 Years of Making Art That Moves You

Global, integrated design team is transforming transportation for next-gen customers

 As GM Design celebrates its 85^th birthday this month, the 1,900 men and women in GM’s 10 global design centers are focused on the future, united in their vision to entice consumers to fall in love and see vehicles as they do: art that moves you.

“Our global team is united around its passion for designing vehicles that make an emotional connection with customers,” said Ed Welburn, GM vice president, Global Design. “What was true 85 years ago is still true today: A designer’s role is to create a beautifully executed exterior with great proportions to draw you in, and an interior environment that invites you into a relationship that develops and grows.”

1951 Buick LeSabre Show Car

Welburn, the sixth design chief in GM’s 104-year history and the first to have global vehicle design leadership responsibilities, will serve as honorary chairman of another visionary group at the 25^th annual EyesOn Design Automotive Design Exhibition on Sunday, June 17. Proceeds benefit the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology’s efforts to find scientific breakthroughs to help those with severe vision loss.