Chevrolet revealed the 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible at the recent Geneva Motor Show. With an estimated 450 horsepower and 610 Nm of torque, the 2014 Stingray is the most powerful standard Corvette in history. “The convertible has been a part of the heart and soul of Corvette since the very beginning in 1953,” said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of global design. “With the all-new Corvette Stingray, we designed and developed the coupe and convertible simultaneously. As a result, the Corvette Stingray offers an open-top driving experience with no compromise in performance, technology or design.” All of the performance technology and capabilities introduced on the Corvette Stingray coupe carry over to the convertible. The only structural changes are limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts. Central to the Corvette Stingray's driving experience is an all-new, more rigid aluminum frame structure, which is 57 percent stiffer and 45 kg lighter than the current steel frame. All models are powered by the LT1 6.2L V-8 which churns out an estimated 450 horsepower. As no structural reinforcements are required for the convertible, both models share almost identical power-to-weight ratios. The LT1 combines several advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system designed to balance power and efficiency. The new Corvette Stingray is expected to exceed the current model in terms of fuel economy. The 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible features an all-new, fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the key fob. The top can also be opened or closed on the go, at speeds up to 50 km/h. With the top up, the convertible is designed for a refined driving experience. A thick, three-ply fabric top, along with sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window, contributes to a quiet cabin and premium appearance. With the top down, the Corvette Stingray's signature profile is further accentuated. Behind the seat backs, dual black accent panels enhance the character lines of the tonneau cover. Corvette Stingray's signature “waterfall” design originates in the valley between the nacelles, bringing the exterior color into the interior. The Corvette Stingray convertible will arrive in the Middle East markets in late 2013. – SG
