Second Generation Corvette C6R GT2 2010

In the 2010 American Le Mans Series (ALMS), Corvette Racing is competing in the production based GT category (formerly GT2) and in the GT2 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a second generation Corvette C6R that is homologated on the base of the Corvette ZR1. The GT rules require the use of many production-based components, making the ZR1 and the C6R the closest street and racing Corvettes since the 1960s.

The updated Corvette C6R race cars utilize the ZR1 body design, aerodynamic package, aluminium frame and chassis structure, steering system, windshield and other components.

Where the Corvette C6R and ZR1 differs significantly are the situations where GT rules actually prohibit the use of the more sophisticated ZR1 components. For example, the ZR1 is equipped with carbon-composite brake rotors, while GT regulations require ferrous (steel) brake disc. And, when the ZR1 utilizes a 6.2 litre supercharged V8, the C6R uses a naturally aspirated, production-based 5.5 litre small-block V8. The Corvette C6R's engine are developed, built and maintained by GM. Designated LS5.5R, the naturally aspirated powerplant is based on the Corvette ZO6's 7.0 litre LS7 engine ( which in turn was developed with the 7.0 litre race engine used in the C6R GT1 cars), and is built with a production cast-aluminium cylinder block.

Pending GT2 class regulations specify a maximum displacement of 5.5 litre. The reduction in displacement to meet this requirement was achieved by shortening the crankshaft stroke and reducing the cylinder bore diameter. In accordance with the regulations, the race engines have two 28.8 mm diameter intake air restrictors. The LS5.5R engines are equipped with dry-sump oiling systems, the CNC-ported aluminium cylinder heads with titanium intake and exhaust valves, and sequential electronic port fuel injection. The race engines use E85R ethanol racing fuel in the ALMS and E-10 fuel in Le Mans.

Paul Damiens - Photos General Motors

Wallpaper from Second Generation Corvette C6R Gt2 2010 (click on picture to enlarge)