Important! Information Regarding 2012 and 2013 Corvette Production

[Rob]

Full Details and Specifications for the 2013 Corvettes: http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com...27-convertible-special-edition-announced.html



Information Regarding 2012 Corvette Model Run

The current 2012 model run which features the Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette will end in May 2012. The final consensus for 2012 Corvette is scheduled to occur during February 2012 period, and the last cycle to submit orders for the 2012 model run will occur in March 2012.

The completion of the 2012 Corvette model run is also the last opportunity for dealers to order the current Chevrolet Centennial Edition Package (RPO: ZLC) featuring the Carbon Flash metallic paint, and Carlisle Blue exterior color (RPO: GLF). The Centennial Edition package, and the Carbon Flash and Carlisle Blue exterior colors will NOT be offered for the 2013 model, and will end production BEFORE the rest of the 2012 Corvette model run (please monitor the weekly constraint wire for specific timing). If you are interested in either of the Centennial Edition Package or the Carlisle Blue exterior color, it is suggested you make plans now to consensus and submit orders for the desired 2012 Corvette model.

The last day to submit orders for 2012 is tentatively scheduled for Mar 15 - 17.
But before that date arrives, Carlisle Blue last order date will be 2/9 - 2/11, and Centennial Edition will be 3/1 - 3/3 (all dates are tentative and subject to change).

Information Regarding 2013 Corvette Model Run

The 2013 model run is also scheduled to start production in May 2012. The first consensus cycle for the 2013 model run is targeted for March 2012, with the first opportunity to submit orders into production occurring after the conclusion of the March consensus cycle.

The 2013 model run is the final model run for the C6 Corvette. This means for many customers, the 2013 model run will be the last opportunity to purchase the current Corvette models, including Grand Sport, Z06 and ZR1 In addition, the 2013 model run marks the 60th Anniversary of this Great American Sports Car. Information about exciting changes for the 2013 Corvette will be shared with you in the coming weeks.

The 2013 Corvette production period is expected to run for approximately nine months. Dealers planning their Corvette business into 2013 calendar year should plan their inventory needs to last through late summer of 2013. This will require dealers to closely study and plan their sales and inventory needs throughout the condensed 2013 model run. It will also mean the next model run will NOT immediately follow the end of the 2013 model run. Dealers will need to be prepared for several months in 2013 without Corvette production.

Allocation Earn for the Next Generation Corvette

Suffice it to say the introduction of any next generation Corvette is one of the most highly anticipated introductions in the automobile industry. The expected arrival of a new generation Corvette generates a lot of showroom excitement and traffic. It also requires the dealership’s sales and service teams to sharpen and improve their performance and technology skills to meet the needs of the Corvette customer. It is for this reason that any Chevrolet dealer seeking to sell and service Corvette must agree to invest in special tools and training for the dealership’s personnel.

Information regarding the requirements for the next generation Corvette’s training and special tools will be shared in the coming months. However, before any dealer is requested to make a decision on investing in the next generation Corvette, it is necessary to understand the anticipated allocation method for the next generation Corvette.

 

[Remo]

Thanks Rob

Always exciting to get news about the next generation.

 

[Rob]

GM Media: 2013 Celebrates 60 years of Corvette Production

Today Chevrolet announced two new special edition Corvettes to round out the production of the C6 Corvette. The two models that have been unveiled are the 60th Anniversary Edition and the fastest Corvette convertible produced, the 427 Convertible Collectors Edition.

“The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current ‘C6’ generation,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. “We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.”

Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition

The Corvette 427 Convertible blends elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models to create the fastest and most-capable convertible in Corvette’s history.

Its heart is the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine from the Corvette Z06. Rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), it is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible – and, like the Z06, the 427 Convertible is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system. It is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Supporting performance elements in the Corvette 427 Convertible include the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. The standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels – introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages – come standard and include unique gray-painted pockets. Black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels are also available.

The 427 Convertible also features several carbon-fiber components that help reduce weight, including:

• Carbon fiber raised hood (introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition)
• Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders
• Carbon fiber floor panels
• The “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels are optional on the 427 Convertible, and included with the 60th Anniversary package

The weight reduction brings the 427 Convertible’s curb weight to 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Combined with its 505-horsepower LS7 engine, it gives the 427 Convertible a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass.

That’s better than:

• Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet – 6.90
• Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder – 7.58
• Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible – 7.82
• Ferrari California Convertible – 8.31

The combination of low mass and high output will make the 427 Convertible one of the fastest convertibles in the world, delivering estimated 0-60 performance of 3.8 seconds, quarter-mile performance of 11.8 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and a top speed of more than 190mph.

The 427 Convertible is available in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels and will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1.

Corvette 60th Anniversary Package

All 2013 Corvette models, including the 427 Convertible, will be available with a 60th Anniversary Package, featuring an Arctic White exterior with a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with suede accents. Convertible models will have a blue top.

Additional content includes a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special badging, gray-painted brake calipers and the “60th” logo on the wheel center caps, steering wheel and seat headrests. An optional graphics package adds full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue, including a tonal stripe stitched into the convertible top, extending the graphic theme over the roof.

For 2013, all Corvettes will feature 60th Anniversary badges on the fascias and the “waterfall” panel on convertible models, as well as 60th logos in the instrument panel gauge cluster and on the sill plates.

Chevrolet will be auctioning off the first Corvette 427 Convertible at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auction with proceeds going to AARP's Drive to End Hunger initiative on January 21st.

 

[Rob]

Gallery: 427 Edition - Corvette Gallery

 

[Crush2]

MSRP listed yet?

When do you think will the MSRPs be available for all models and options? Hate to think of the C6 ending after only 9 model years, it has been an enormously successful model and run. A little concerned that the C6 may be the high-water mark for our beasts.

Today Chevrolet announced two new special edition Corvettes to round out the production of the C6 Corvette. The two models that have been unveiled are the 60th Anniversary Edition and the fastest Corvette convertible produced, the 427 Convertible Collectors Edition.

“The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current ‘C6’ generation,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. “We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.”

Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition

The Corvette 427 Convertible blends elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models to create the fastest and most-capable convertible in Corvette’s history.

Its heart is the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine from the Corvette Z06. Rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), it is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible – and, like the Z06, the 427 Convertible is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system. It is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Supporting performance elements in the Corvette 427 Convertible include the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. The standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels – introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages – come standard and include unique gray-painted pockets. Black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels are also available.

The 427 Convertible also features several carbon-fiber components that help reduce weight, including:

• Carbon fiber raised hood (introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition)
• Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders
• Carbon fiber floor panels
• The “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels are optional on the 427 Convertible, and included with the 60th Anniversary package

The weight reduction brings the 427 Convertible’s curb weight to 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Combined with its 505-horsepower LS7 engine, it gives the 427 Convertible a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass.

That’s better than:

• Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet – 6.90
• Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder – 7.58
• Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible – 7.82
• Ferrari California Convertible – 8.31

The combination of low mass and high output will make the 427 Convertible one of the fastest convertibles in the world, delivering estimated 0-60 performance of 3.8 seconds, quarter-mile performance of 11.8 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and a top speed of more than 190mph.

The 427 Convertible is available in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels and will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1.

Corvette 60th Anniversary Package

All 2013 Corvette models, including the 427 Convertible, will be available with a 60th Anniversary Package, featuring an Arctic White exterior with a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with suede accents. Convertible models will have a blue top.

Additional content includes a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special badging, gray-painted brake calipers and the “60th” logo on the wheel center caps, steering wheel and seat headrests. An optional graphics package adds full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue, including a tonal stripe stitched into the convertible top, extending the graphic theme over the roof.

For 2013, all Corvettes will feature 60th Anniversary badges on the fascias and the “waterfall” panel on convertible models, as well as 60th logos in the instrument panel gauge cluster and on the sill plates.

Chevrolet will be auctioning off the first Corvette 427 Convertible at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auction with proceeds going to AARP's Drive to End Hunger initiative on January 21st.

 

[Vettelt193]

Considering this new 'vert is going to come in at 100k (plus or minus 10k based on options etc.) you would think they could throw on some painted stripes.

I don't mind decals but putting them over the entire car as racing stripes is 6 banger mustang territory.

I'm very happy they finally powered up the 'vert. Kinda sad there is no paddle shift auto version though.

I'll take mine without the ugly 60th edition... Marina blue with White interior. Oh wait they won't build one like that... I'll go with Inferno Orange with matching inferno orange / black interior... Oh wait they won't do that (they offer it on the Camaro though.)

I've been looking at new corvettes lately and I gotta say that it is really tough to spend the kind of money they command without getting what I really want in basic color combos. It can't possibly cost that much to offer a few more interior colors / caliper colors to make things pop for each customer.

 

[Crush2]

colors

Yeah, hear that. Wouldn't mind the DSOM (Daytona Sunset Orange Metallic, '05/'06 colors only, crap!) with cashmere interior like on my '06 vert. Atomic and Inferno just don't do it for me. Maroon/burgundy with cashmere int not bad either. And did they decide to deep-six greens forever? A dark forest green with tan/cashmere int would be pretty nice. Stripes gotta go. Straight paint is fine with us.

Considering this new 'vert is going to come in at 100k (plus or minus 10k based on options etc.) you would think they could throw on some painted stripes.

I don't mind decals but putting them over the entire car as racing stripes is 6 banger mustang territory.

I'm very happy they finally powered up the 'vert. Kinda sad there is no paddle shift auto version though.

I'll take mine without the ugly 60th edition... Marina blue with White interior. Oh wait they won't build one like that... I'll go with Inferno Orange with matching inferno orange / black interior... Oh wait they won't do that (they offer it on the Camaro though.)

I've been looking at new corvettes lately and I gotta say that it is really tough to spend the kind of money they command without getting what I really want in basic color combos. It can't possibly cost that much to offer a few more interior colors / caliper colors to make things pop for each customer.

 

[NORTY]

Interesting that GM will cease production of the C6 for "several months" to deplete existing inventory, prior to releasing the C7. I guess those that want to "negotiate down" a price on a new C6 with C7's on the lot will get shut out.

Also, regarding the LS7 in a 'vert, those that get the car won't be allowed on any track without a cage, so why bother? Most Corvette owners would love to have a faster convert, until they do and are pigeon holed and aren't allowed on any track.

Sure, the LS7 is nice, but everyone makes the LS2-3 to be a slouch. I don't think the LS2-3's are slouches at all. (Now, maybe the 305 cu.in. engines of 1980...) Those were some "torque monsters!" All 150HP of 'em! Maybe they were Clydesdale horses. Maybe they were Shetland ponys, I dunno.

 

[lt4 gs]

thanks rob...interesting

 

[Mechanik1]

Sounds Good to me

Not that I will be buying a new 2013 model, but if I was; I would probably go the convertible route. Since the introduction of the modern Z06 beginning in 2001 and then growing to 427 cubes in 2006 (rejoice), I have thought that one day I would get a Z06. But after removing the targa on my C4 on a regular basis, I have thought hard about a convertible, as well. What is one to do? Up till now I have held a secret fantasy of purchasing a C6 convertible and a crate LS7 and merging the two (sounds pretty expensive), then using aftermarket parts to beef up the other systems of the car. Which still may be more affordable than buying the 2013 model, but at least now; GM has done the work.


I don’t know that the 2012 GS convertible is really worth the added expense. Without a boost to engine performance I would lean towards the base model. But now with the added LS7, convertible shoppers will have a true performance option to consider. I don’t know about others, but this seems pretty big to me.

 

[Corvettedude]

Deja Vu, All over again!

Thanks Rob...
As a former Chevy dealer manager/sales rep., I remember well, going through this same scenario when the C5 and C6 generations were introduced. Special tech training and tools required and specialized training events for the dealership "Corvette Specialists". For C5, we went to Vegas for training...it was quite the deal. I'm looking forward to what Chevy is bringing us next, in my "Forever Dream Car"!!!

 

[Corvettedude]

The cease in production is for retooling of the plant, NORTY. Not so cheapskates have the opportunity to get a CORvette for a CHEvette price.

Interesting that GM will cease production of the C6 for "several months" to deplete existing inventory, prior to releasing the C7. I guess those that want to "negotiate down" a price on a new C6 with C7's on the lot will get shut out.

Also, regarding the LS7 in a 'vert, those that get the car won't be allowed on any track without a cage, so why bother? Most Corvette owners would love to have a faster convert, until they do and are pigeon holed and aren't allowed on any track.

Sure, the LS7 is nice, but everyone makes the LS2-3 to be a slouch. I don't think the LS2-3's are slouches at all. (Now, maybe the 305 cu.in. engines of 1980...) Those were some "torque monsters!" All 150HP of 'em! Maybe they were Clydesdale horses. Maybe they were Shetland ponys, I dunno.

 

[RC135_Tx]

The cease in production is for retooling of the plant, NORTY. Not so cheapskates have the opportunity to get a CORvette for a CHEvette price.

Cheapskates? Sheez. Getting' a little tough there aren't ya, swabbie? :L

Guess you don't think much of us second-hand owners, either. :ugh

Anyhoo ... I'm really looking forward to the C7; hoping it will bring our favorite car firmly up to date in some areas where it has been lagging, as well as staying far out in the lead in the price-performance bracket.

 

[LT4CE]

Interesting that GM will cease production of the C6 for "several months" to deplete existing inventory, prior to releasing the C7. I guess those that want to "negotiate down" a price on a new C6 with C7's on the lot will get shut out.

The cease in production is for retooling of the plant, NORTY. Not so cheapskates have the opportunity to get a CORvette for a CHEvette price.

My take on NORTY's post is that he was saying the cheapskates *wouldn't* have the opportunity to get a CORvette for a CHEvette price, since there would be no C6's left by the time the C7's arrive.

Naturally I'm prone, as always, to being dead wrong.

SAVE THE WAVE!!!

 

[Corvettedude]

I think we all started out, or most of us anyway, as "second-hand" owners. I'm refering tothose that don't care about the car, its history or the lifestyle the rest of us have come to embrace. I dealt with far too many of then on a dealership level (you could never make the deal sweet enough for them). And, where are you getting 'swabbie', do you know me? If you do, you know I call a duck, a duck...

Cheapskates? Sheez. Getting' a little tough there aren't ya, swabbie? :L

Guess you don't think much of us second-hand owners, either. :ugh

Anyhoo ... I'm really looking forward to the C7; hoping it will bring our favorite car firmly up to date in some areas where it has been lagging, as well as staying far out in the lead in the price-performance bracket.

 

[Rob99]

Anyword about the full color palate that will be offered for '13 or when that info will be released??

 

[stonebreaker]

Considering this new 'vert is going to come in at 100k (plus or minus 10k based on options etc.) you would think they could throw on some painted stripes.

I don't mind decals but putting them over the entire car as racing stripes is 6 banger mustang territory.

I'm very happy they finally powered up the 'vert. Kinda sad there is no paddle shift auto version though.

I'll take mine without the ugly 60th edition... Marina blue with White interior. Oh wait they won't build one like that... I'll go with Inferno Orange with matching inferno orange / black interior... Oh wait they won't do that (they offer it on the Camaro though.)

I've been looking at new corvettes lately and I gotta say that it is really tough to spend the kind of money they command without getting what I really want in basic color combos. It can't possibly cost that much to offer a few more interior colors / caliper colors to make things pop for each customer.

I wonder if the lack of color selection has anything to do with the effort required to swap colors on the paint 'bots?

 

[mikesanto70]

Full Details and Specifications for the 2013 Corvettes: http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com...27-convertible-special-edition-announced.html



Information Regarding 2012 Corvette Model Run

The current 2012 model run which features the Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette will end in May 2012. The final consensus for 2012 Corvette is scheduled to occur during February 2012 period, and the last cycle to submit orders for the 2012 model run will occur in March 2012.

The completion of the 2012 Corvette model run is also the last opportunity for dealers to order the current Chevrolet Centennial Edition Package (RPO: ZLC) featuring the Carbon Flash metallic paint, and Carlisle Blue exterior color (RPO: GLF). The Centennial Edition package, and the Carbon Flash and Carlisle Blue exterior colors will NOT be offered for the 2013 model, and will end production BEFORE the rest of the 2012 Corvette model run (please monitor the weekly constraint wire for specific timing). If you are interested in either of the Centennial Edition Package or the Carlisle Blue exterior color, it is suggested you make plans now to consensus and submit orders for the desired 2012 Corvette model.

The last day to submit orders for 2012 is tentatively scheduled for Mar 15 - 17.
But before that date arrives, Carlisle Blue last order date will be 2/9 - 2/11, and Centennial Edition will be 3/1 - 3/3 (all dates are tentative and subject to change).

Information Regarding 2013 Corvette Model Run

The 2013 model run is also scheduled to start production in May 2012. The first consensus cycle for the 2013 model run is targeted for March 2012, with the first opportunity to submit orders into production occurring after the conclusion of the March consensus cycle.

The 2013 model run is the final model run for the C6 Corvette. This means for many customers, the 2013 model run will be the last opportunity to purchase the current Corvette models, including Grand Sport, Z06 and ZR1 In addition, the 2013 model run marks the 60th Anniversary of this Great American Sports Car. Information about exciting changes for the 2013 Corvette will be shared with you in the coming weeks.

The 2013 Corvette production period is expected to run for approximately nine months. Dealers planning their Corvette business into 2013 calendar year should plan their inventory needs to last through late summer of 2013. This will require dealers to closely study and plan their sales and inventory needs throughout the condensed 2013 model run. It will also mean the next model run will NOT immediately follow the end of the 2013 model run. Dealers will need to be prepared for several months in 2013 without Corvette production.

Allocation Earn for the Next Generation Corvette

Suffice it to say the introduction of any next generation Corvette is one of the most highly anticipated introductions in the automobile industry. The expected arrival of a new generation Corvette generates a lot of showroom excitement and traffic. It also requires the dealership’s sales and service teams to sharpen and improve their performance and technology skills to meet the needs of the Corvette customer. It is for this reason that any Chevrolet dealer seeking to sell and service Corvette must agree to invest in special tools and training for the dealership’s personnel.

Information regarding the requirements for the next generation Corvette’s training and special tools will be shared in the coming months. However, before any dealer is requested to make a decision on investing in the next generation Corvette, it is necessary to understand the anticipated allocation method for the next generation Corvette.

Man, time is flying by, it seems like 5 min ago the C6 was introduced, "getting old is not for sissys"

 

[Remo]

What Goes Around...Comes Around

A few years ago I asked Corvette Engineer Dave Hill why there was such a reluctance to put big horse power in the late model Corvette convertibles. He answered, with a wink, that the convertibles didn't have the structural integrety of the Z06 fixed roofs. I followed by saying that my frist Covette was a 65' convertible 396 with 425HP. He smiled and said it was really an issue frequently fought out between Marketing and Manufacturing Engineers. It looks like Marketing finally won.

 

[stonebreaker]

<snip>
Also, regarding the LS7 in a 'vert, those that get the car won't be allowed on any track without a cage, so why bother? Most Corvette owners would love to have a faster convert, until they do and are pigeon holed and aren't allowed on any track.
<snip>

Everywhere EXCEPT the track, the 427 convertible will hold its own or even top the regular Z06 and maybe even the ZR1. The coolness factor is going to be off the charts - at cruise-ins, car shows, the golf course, the local winery, or hell, just plain chasin' tail.

You don't buy a convertible for raw performance. You buy one for the total driving experience. And that includes while you're stopped.