Chevrolet Reveals 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible
The American auto major General Motor's most successful global brand Chevrolet has now revealed the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The new Corvette Stingray features an all-new, fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the car's key fob. The top can also be controlled (open and close) on the go, at the speed of up to 50kmph. The Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible models will be launched in global markets in late 2013 in Europe, the United Kingdom, Middle East, Japan and Russia.
“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.”
“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 recognized 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 aluminum frame structure, which is 57-percent stiffer and 99 pounds (45 kg) lighter than the current steel frame.
All models are powered by the new LT1 6.2L V-8, with an estimated power output of 450bhp and 610Nm of peak torque. 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 improve upon the current model’s fuel economy of 7.3kmpl.
With the top up, the Corvette Stingray 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.