Holden have just confirmed that they will have the recently released Corvette in their showrooms as it is to be built RHD by the factory.
Pickles.
Printable View
Holden have just confirmed that they will have the recently released Corvette in their showrooms as it is to be built RHD by the factory.
Pickles.
Holden Official Press release below...
"
July 19, 2019
Holden to welcome new Corvette to Australia
Next generation mid-engine Corvette revealed globally
To be built in right-hand-drive for the first time
Australia confirmed as a right-hand-drive export market
Corvette to join Holden’s global portfolio
PORT MELBOURNE: General Motors Holden confirmed today that the next generation
mid-engine Corvette will be built in right-hand-drive (RHD) and will roar Down Under for
sale in Australia.
“Like anyone with a hint of petrol in their veins, we were glued to our screens watching the
reveal of the new Corvette,” said Dave Buttner, Chairman and Managing Director of
Holden. “The news that Corvette will now be built in right-hand-drive for the first time ever
– and will be exported to Australia – is hugely exciting for our team at Holden and any
Australian who loves high performance cars.
“With our long history in motor-racing, performance vehicles are an indelible part of the
Holden brand. Our team is totally revved up to build on Holden’s performance legacy with
the most technologically advanced Corvette ever built.
“We look forward to taking on the European and Japanese performance vehicles with
some highly sophisticated American muscle.”
The new Corvette is the first-ever production version in mid-engine configuration. It is also
the fastest, most powerful entry-level Corvette, offering new standards of performance,
technology and craftsmanship.
“Corvette has always represented the pinnacle of innovation and boundary-pushing at GM.
The traditional front-engine vehicle reached its limits of performance, necessitating the
new layout,” said GM President Mark Reuss. “In terms of comfort and fun, it still looks and
feels like a Corvette, but drives better than any vehicle in Corvette history. Customers are
going to be thrilled with our focus on details and performance across the board.”
The new mid-engine layout gives Corvette:
Better weight distribution, with the rear weight bias enhancing performance in a
straight line and on the track.
Better responsiveness and sense of control due to driver positioning closer to the
front axle, almost on top of the front wheels.
The fastest 0-60 (0-96km/h) time of any entry Corvette ever — approximately three
seconds when equipped with Z51 package.
A race car-like view of the road due to lower positioning of the hood, instrument
panel and steering wheel. Excellent forward sightlines throughout the vehicle for
both driver and passenger.
An enhancement of Corvette’s traditional utility strengths with dual trunks, ideal for
luggage or two sets of golf clubs
The Corvette’s exterior has a bold, futuristic expression with mid-engine exotic proportions,
but it is still unmistakably Corvette. It is lean and muscular, with an athletic sculptural
shape conveying a sense of motion and power from every angle.
“As America’s most iconic performance nameplate, redesigning the Corvette from the
ground up presented the team a historic opportunity, something Chevrolet designers have
desired for over 60 years,” said Mike Simcoe, Vice President of Global Design, General
Motors. “It is now the best of America, a new arrival in the mid-engine sports car class. We
know Corvette can stand tall with the best the world has to offer.”
A supercar level of craftsmanship, premium materials and attention to detail were critical in
designing every component of the Corvette. The new location of the engine is truly the
focal point for the car’s design. It’s the heart of this next generation Corvette and it sits like
a jewel in a showcase, visible through the large rear hatch window. The added attention to
detail optimised the appearance of every wire, tube, bolt and fastener, similar to those
found in modern track and all-road motorcycle design.
The next generation Corvette’s canopy-forward stance was inspired by F22s, F35s and
other modern fighter jets and Formula One racing. Other classic Corvette signatures
adapted to the next generation car include a distinctive face that communicates the
purpose of the vehicle’s mission, a classic horizontal crease, aggressive front fenders and
familiar positioning of the dual-element headlamps.
Corvette’s structure is built around its backbone: the centre tunnel. This enables a light,
stiff structure to serve as the foundation for the suspension system to perform in an
optimised manner. By removing unwanted body compliance, Corvette customers will
experience the ultimate in ride performance with outstanding lateral grip capabilities. The
car has a solid, connected-to-the-road feel with minimal vibrations at high speeds or on
long road trips.
The Corvette is designed for superior ride comfort on the highway and well-balanced
handling on the track.
“Thanks to sophisticated suspension geometry, tailored tyre technology and exquisite
attention to structural details, we have improved ride and handling,” said Tadge Juechter,
Corvette Executive Chief Engineer. “No Corvette has ever felt so comfortable, nimble and
yet completely stable.”
The new Corvette features coil over dampers that create entirely new ride and handling
characteristics. The mid-engine architecture allows for a short, straight and stiff steering
system, coupled with an updated electronic steering system, making the driver’s chassis
input instantaneous.
The new seating position places the car’s centre of gravity close to the driver’s inside hip,
so the car literally turns around the driver. It completely changes the perception of vehicle
handling and responsiveness.
The new Corvette’s heart is Chevy’s next-generation 6.2L Small Block V-8 LT2 engine, the
only naturally aspirated V-8 in the segment. It will produce 495 horsepower (369 kW) and
470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque when equipped with performance exhaust — the most
horsepower and torque for any entry level Corvette.
“Though now placed behind the driver, the LT2 gives the same visceral experience we all
expect from Corvette,” said Jordan Lee, GM’s Global Chief Engineer of Small Block
engines. “The LT2 has been designed to deliver excellent low-end torque and high-end
power to give thrilling pedal response at any RPM.”
The thumping LT2 is paired with Chevrolet’s first eight speed dual-clutch transmission,
which provides lightning-fast shifts and excellent power transfer. This transmission is
uniquely designed with TREMEC to provide the best of both worlds: the spirited, direct
connected feeling of a manual and the premium driving comfort of an automatic. The
double-paddle de-clutch feature even allows the driver to disconnect the clutch by holding
both paddles for more manual control.
Paddle shifters allow drivers to choose a specific gear. The performance shift algorithms
are so driver-focused, they can sense spirited driving — regardless of driving mode — and
will hold lower gears longer for more throttle response.
The new Corvette benefits from GM’s new digital vehicle platform, an all-new electronic
architecture that enables the adoption of the company’s next generation of technologies.
The architecture minimises wiring while allowing for faster signal transmission between
different vehicle systems and the higher resolution screens, and also enable enhanced
cybersecurity measures.
Next generation Corvette production begins at GM’s Bowling Green facility in late 2019.
Holden will share further details about Corvette in Australia at a later date."
It took three years but glad to see its finally here
https://www.caradvice.com.au/469818/...our-socks-off/
"I don’t think anyone could be anything but blown away by the performance and handling of the car that will become our sports car. No one is going to be disappointed by that thing," Poppitt said.
I wrote a rather long post in the Camaro thread detailing my reasons why we would get this car which never appeared as I was logged off during the creation and couldn't be bothered retyping.
Pricing by Holden will be interesting, we will see if they want to sell a few hundred or thousands.
I will be waiting for Z06 and the rumored turbo V8 engine.
GM Official 2020 Corvette web site...
Link
Quote:
Originally Posted by S&S
the media are quoting Holden insiders when they say.... $100-120k
if that is the case, HSV just got kicked in the nuts (with the ZL1 priced as it is)
Personally I think will be more like $150-160k....
I think your right Smitty, 150-160 seems more likely to me.
Shame though, I actually don't mind the look of it but I doubt I'll ever be able to justify the price to buy one.
I agree with you and I won't be buying at that price. A base C8 is USD 60k so to mark it up that far is to much and I will buy something different. We get Jeep Trackhawk and Mustang for a decent price here and if Holden decide to go that hard then I think they are finished.Quote:
Originally Posted by Smitty
From GM Chevrolet press release on pricing in the US...
"Attainability remains a hallmark.
Corvette has always represented iconic American design, performance, technical ingenuity and attainability.
The entry 2020 Stingray continues that tradition as a no-compromise value proposition, as it will start under $60,000."
So $60K USD at today's exchange rate, works out only @ $85,029.60 AUD ( Factory R/H )
Looking very promising for realistic pricing in the low $100K + range...
I can't see it being priced anywhere near the current HSV R/H drive converted ZL1 Camaro $159990 asking price IMO...
The current base model C7 Corvette is cheaper than the current ZL1 Camaro in the US.
Corvette C8R Racecar yet to be fully revealed......
https://i.imgur.com/BZuhUEl.jpg
I'm in lurve!!! :drool: :drool: :drool:
Can you imagine the looks I'd get alighting from one and getting my walking frame out of the back! :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
You should buy one Gary! :idea:Quote:
Originally Posted by Wonky
You know you want to. :yup:
I think we'd need to take the MSRP of a HSV-spec ZL1 in the States (USD$65K plus bits of the $7500 1LE pack) and take into account the conversion costs before jumping to conclusions about the pricing of the local ZL1. I do agree it's a lot of money though.Quote:
HSV just got kicked in the nuts (with the ZL1 priced as it is)
I'm excited for the arrival of a factory RHD Vette. I'm pretty sure a mate at work has already knocked on the door of the local dealer with deposit in hand. Common sense suggests somewhere around the $100K mark for the base Vette from Holden, based on exchange rates and the factory RHD bit. Maybe they'll throw HSV the Z06 bone and let them market the $150-200K quick version.
Mick
yeah Gaz .. means ya gotta! :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Wonky
might take ya 15 mins to get out... but geez the looks! :lmao:
I don't think you would want to get out if you got your arse into one of them :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Wonky
Back in 06 a mate of mine in San Jose bought a brand new Z06 with the 427 and was reluctant to pay the US $58k but thought he deserved it.
I've got a video of us doing 0-80mph in second gear and sub 4 seconds to 60mph.
If it's us$70k to us the conversion takes it to over $100 pacific pesos. Delivery, shipping, LCT, floor mats were looking at $145. First in always pay a premium so let's call it $20k and we arrive at $165.
The Chevy Corvette C5 Z06 Is an Insane Sports Car Bargain
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=151&v=NcCszG4yNIU
Tiff Needell did the best ever review / test drive of the C6 Z06... :cool:Quote:
Originally Posted by jc_sv8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYa9LhBzDo4
Gaz tell ya Missus you just want one! :lol:Quote:
Originally Posted by Wonky
Was at my dealer on Monday, they said they had already taken 6 deposits ($5k) and were suggesting around the $90k RRP. Then he looked at his stock of Camaros sitting in front of us and sighed...
I'll bet he would take deposits telling people they will only cost $90K!Quote:
Originally Posted by CLUBRED
I'll bet he wouldn't guarantee delivery at that price though. :lmao:
Any price gouge with this car will hurt them in my opinion, they get away with it on the Camaro with the sook about conversion costs, HSV tax etc. I don't see the base model Corvette directly imported being anymore than what the GTS cost, which was what - between $100-110k? $90k + LCT + delivery etc puts it squarely in that range.
The direct dollar conversion would put it around 85k? I think it will be higher personally. 120ish on road but happy to be proven wrong. You'd really want the Z51 upgrade though.
not going to be fun changing spark plugs or engine belt. typical engineer job, gonna be PIA for mechanics.
By chance I have read some chat about possible price gouging in the US with a dealer stating they will only be selling at RRP. Reading between the lines it's possible that GM has tried to lay down the law and keep them all in line.After all if you have spent millions of dollars and years developing a new flagship car you wouldn't want a bunch of glorified scalpers derailing sales right at the end of the project. I'm hoping Holden dealers have to tow the line as well.Quote:
Originally Posted by CLUBRED
Some good info about the car on the official Chev youtube channel
https://www.youtube.com/user/Chevrolet/videos
How do you know this? Did you click the click bait?Quote:
Originally Posted by Tre-Cool
Yeah, well I'd like to know what that Dealer's smok'n. $60K US = $87K Aus for a start (for a base model), then ya've got freight, import duty, Dealer mark up, options for the Aussie version etc etc etc, I'd say that Dealer is definitely dream'n.Quote:
Originally Posted by CLUBRED
Pickles.
That article says.....Quote:
Originally Posted by Wonky
"Wheels understands, the C8 Corvette will be priced between $150,000 and $170,000 in Australia when it arrives in right-hook from the USA."
I reckon they are literally on the money. :yup:
Just have to wait a few years and get one at a realistic price.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Wonky
Wheels (same magazine.... their article quoted in "which car article" above ) speculated $120K back in their May 2017 article below...
http://i1312.photobucket.com/albums/...psk5gomhfc.jpg
Now Wheels are speculating $150K - $170K AUD, what are they smoking... the C8 Corvette requires Zero... R/H drive conversion costs as the HSV ZL1 R/H drive converted Camaro does, so the C8 Corvette has a huge price advantage from the get go being Factory R/H drive...
The Z51 package currently is only $5K USD on top of the base model C7 Corvette 1LT $56995 + $5000 so $61995 USD... Equals only $89681 AUD.
Top spec C7 Corvette 3LT with Z51 package is only $71740 USD, so $103779 AUD...
Current L/H drive ZL1 Camaro is $62995 USD in the US, so only $91128 AUD... plus HSV's R/H drive conversion costs ( $40K AUD + approx ) would take price to around $130K AUD plus GST / LCT and Australia tax to come to HSV's list price of $159990...
Looking at the numbers, around $120K AUD is alot more logical than $150K to $170K AUD for the C8 Corvette IMO...
If Holden price the C8 Corvette at or above the current HSV ZL1 R/H drive converted Camaro $159990, it's Blatant Price Gouging...
If Holden are smart, and price it very competitively like Mustang, they'll sell bucket loads of them.
Time will tell how greedy Holden want to be...
Exactly Aust. being the @sshole of the world we cop the shit were given, if you want a nice V8 you will pay through the nose for it.. I could be wrong!Quote:
If Holden are smart, and price it very competitively like Mustang, they'll sell bucket loads of them.
Time will tell how greedy Holden want to be...
Think I'll be keeping my Senator forever............ :)
I base it on reality of how all manufacturers make shit to fit into the car on the production line & are not concerned about working on them afterwards. Good example is the fuel pumps in the VE, No external filter, no access panel to the pump module from inside the car. You have to drop the exhaust, tailshaft & rear subframe to change the ****er when it dies.Quote:
Originally Posted by JJW501
at-least up to the ve if you had a pump die you could change it on the side of the road with basic tools.
I love the corvette's regardless but working on them is even harder then a commodore.
Fair points.Quote:
Originally Posted by Tre-Cool
I am trying to look at this positively.
Consider the alternative if you are into a mid-engine car with this sort of HP - ? a 7 year old lambo or McLaren, knowing full well it would be an exercise that might cost $100K in depreciation and maintenance etc over 2 or 3 years.
If the corvette hit the market at $100K offering a mid engine chassis, came with a warranty and $50K resale after 3 years - I am in like Flynn!
But it is still a GM product with the engine in a different spot, so I don't see $190K in it.
And I am not going to speculate on mechanical issues as any initial buyer will have warranty, so we won't know about the hard luck mechanical repairs for at least 3-5 years from when they hit the market here.
I'm watching closely but after observing the Mustang madness, I have no interest in paying an inflated price to be the first of something commonplace. That is not a criticism of the Mustang - they are great bang for buck now, but Ford really raped their most enthusiastic customers, and that is a shame.
Yeah I wouldn't be buying the base model regardless.
Needs to be FI, crazy power for me to even think about buying.
maybe even wait for a few of them to crashed & hit the auctions... lol
Be interesting when we see some of the blower packages that places like Harrop bring out. :thumbsup:Quote:
Originally Posted by Tre-Cool
You think there's room for that?Quote:
Originally Posted by whitels1ss
Twin turbo would be a more logical option, there's no room for much else. Even camming it would be an engine out job.
Plus who knows how long it will take to crack the ECU and tuners here to actually understand what they're doing with it? Many still can't tune a Gen F properly and they're only a small step from where we're coming from. The C7 Ecu was/is a lot more complicated from what I've read, the C8 will be much the same.
Given the terrible fuelling I've seen from big name "tuners" on Gen F's, I wouldn't be letting them near direct injection in a hurry.