Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R Widebody Racecar Revealed For 2024 Competitions

It doesn't stop there, though. The underbody enhancements are supported by a brand-new wing design that enhances rear airflow and makes for improved cornering abilities. Elsewhere, you'll find front carbon fiber splitters that improve downforce.

Those aggressive front intakes may look great, but their purpose stretches beyond intimidation and menace. They direct cool air to the front brakes, while the large duct on the hood extracts air once it has moved over the radiator. Lastly, side air ducts cool the mid-mounted engine and the rear brakes.

"Corvette production and racing teams worked together closely in development to maximize the benefits of a mid-engine design, sharing lessons learned that set both programs up for all-out performance on the track," said executive chief engineer for Corvette, Tadge Juechter.

The Z06 GT3.R integrates several safety features to protect drivers. There's a side-impact crash structure between the driver's side door and the roll cage. It's fashioned from an aluminum honeycomb design and features a carbon fiber and Kevlar casing.

Chevy's latest track weapon is the result of two years of arduous testing and development. From virtual simulators in 2021 to on-track evaluations in September 2022, the automaker has gone to great lengths to ensure it is a competitive racer. We recently saw the Z06 GT3.R testing in December alongside two other special Chevys.

The Bowtie brand still has plenty of development to do and will spend most of this year track testing the racecar. Customers can expect to take delivery from the third quarter of 2023. Purchasing a GT3.R will likely prove expensive, but the relationship doesn't end when you receive the vehicle.

Chevrolet and Corvette Racing will establish a customer support program for teams racing the Z06 GT3.R in North America and elsewhere in the world. From 2024, a parts truck will be found at North American race events, with this service set to expand overseas in the first two years of the vehicle program.

Aside from carrying spare bodywork and components for customer teams, engineers will be able to help with chassis setup, data analysis, and more. Those with deep pockets can even elect to spend on optional support items like full engineering and race strategy.

"With this being our first customer GT3 offering, we have had meetings with many prospective customers to learn from their previous experiences, find what is important to them from a support standpoint and come up with a program that meets their expectations," said GM's Christie Bagne.

So, when will we get to see the Corvette Z06 GT3.R in action? The new racecar will make its competition debut at the 2024 Rolex 24 At Daytona event. Up to four variants will compete in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in a mix of GTD and GTD Pro teams.

What's more, two examples are destined for the FIA WEC to compete in the GT category. This includes the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. Chevrolet says team announcements (and drivers) will be announced at a later date.

"This has been an intense but very rewarding process. From the time we announced a Corvette GT3 car, I've received more inquiries than I can count," recounted Laura Wontrop Klauser, GM sports car racing program manager. "It's a testament to a known product like Corvette, the minds behind design, development and build, and the quarter-century success of Corvette Racing."