NCCC Bans E-Rays, EVs & Hybrids From Events

The recently unveiled 2024 C8 Corvette E-Ray marks a change in the trajectory of everything a Corvette has traditionally been, thanks to the introduction of an all-new hybrid powertrain. Unfortunately, it's the same hybrid drivetrain that drove the National Council of Corvette Clubs (NCCC) to ban the C8 E-Ray, along with other hybrids and EVs, from participating at track days.

According to a report from Corvette Forum, the reasoning behind this ban may not be what you originally thought. The NCCC isn't acting on implicit bias towards the electrified Vette, but rather towards concerns of the inability of emergency officials to handle electric fires in the event of an accident. Damaged battery cells can experience what's called thermal runaway, where the internal temperature of the battery rises out of control. In fact, the NCCC has gone so far as to ban EVs and hybrids, including the Corvette E-Ray, from being within 30 feet of any structures or other vehicles at events.

Forward-thinking readers may be wondering if this ban would affect the upcoming C8 Corvette Zora. Well, dear reader, you would be correct, as the hybrid drivetrain in the C8 Zora would render it ineligible to participate as per the NCCC's current rulebook. This also means that any future electrified Vette - fully electric or otherwise - is effectually pre-banned from competition.

However, the forthcoming C8 Corvette ZR1 would be good to go, as it will feature an ICE-only powertrain.

As a reminder, the 2024 Corvette E-Ray combines the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 LT2 gasoline engine, rated at 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, while an electric motor, rated at 160 horsepower and 125 pound-feet, on the front axle, bringing total output up to 655 horsepower.

A new variant of the C8's dual-clutch, eight speed automatic transmission (RPO code MLH) is exclusively offered with the E-Ray.

Under the color-matched body panels, the C8 E-Ray rides on the GM Y2 platform, which it shares with all C8 variants. The hybrid Vette will go on sale in late 2023, and will be built alongside the C8 Stingray and C8 Z06 models at the GM Bowling Green plant in Kentucky.

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Source: Trey Hawkins - GM Authority

Posted 4/28/23