General Motors has once again made history with the 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1, which recently became the fastest car ever built by a U.S. auto manufacturer. What makes this achievement even more impressive is that the driver behind the wheel was none other than GM President Mark Reuss.
The GM team traveled to Germany’s High-Speed Oval Track at ATP Automotive Testing facility in Papenburg to put the ZR1 to the test. They reached a two-way average speed of 233 mph, a remarkable feat that solidifies the ZR1’s position as the fastest current production car priced under $1 million and the fastest factory-stock Corvette on earth.
Papenburg provided the ideal conditions for a high-speed test, with factors like temperature and air density playing a crucial role in achieving such incredible speeds. The ZR1’s performance is a testament to the engineering prowess of GM and the dedication of the team behind the development of this exceptional vehicle.
In 2020, Corvette made the transition to a mid-engine architecture, and the ZR1 boasts the most powerful V8 engine ever produced by a domestic manufacturer. With a 5.5-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine that can generate 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm, the ZR1 is a force to be reckoned with on the road.
The record-setting run was achieved with a standard chassis and aero package, along with features like a standard spoiler, carbon fiber ground effects, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and aluminum wheels. A Top Speed Mode was exclusively developed for closed course use, allowing the ZR1 to maximize its performance capabilities.
During Reuss’s record-breaking run, an engineer was present in the passenger seat analyzing data in real time. The ZR1 reached an impressive 233 mph with the engine at the redline in sixth gear, showcasing the vehicle’s exceptional speed and power.
According to GM, five engineers were able to top 230 mph using both ZR1 development cars onsite, making it a remarkable day for the team. Corvette ZR1 lead development engineer Chris Barber expressed his astonishment at the car’s performance, stating that it „overachieved“ beyond their initial expectations.
The achievement of reaching 233 mph was a surreal and exhilarating experience for Reuss, who described the record-breaking attempt as a momentous occasion. The ZR1’s exceptional performance and speed capabilities highlight GM’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and innovation.
With its groundbreaking speed, power, and performance, the 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 has set a new standard for American-made supercars and solidified its place as a true automotive icon.