Corvette E-Ray Tackles the Snow and Ice at F.A.T. International Ice Race
The new all-wheel drive E-Ray proves that it can handle all weather conditions.
The 2024 Corvette E-Ray is the first Corvette in history to feature an all-wheel drive layout. A traditional rear-wheel drive Corvette can get snow tires slapped on it and it will actually perform admirably in the snow. But the all-wheel drive E-Ray takes things to the next level. It simply devours the snow and ice. To prove the point, it was recently invited to take part in the F.A.T. International Ice Race. The event is a three-day winter spectacle that was held in Aspen, Colorado. It was the first time this event was held in the United States. So, what better way to mark the occasion than by having America’s sports car taking part?
The E-Ray is of course not just the first Corvette to feature all-wheel drive. It is also the first to feature a hybrid powerplant. The traditional LT2 V8 engine is assisted by an electric motor. This combination is good for 655 horsepower and makes the E-Ray the quickest accelerating Corvette in history. At least in dry conditions. The snow naturally slows things down but not by very much. And even if it can’t hit 60 in 2.5 seconds in the snow, the E-Ray looks to be even more fun when things get slippery. Watch the video below posted on the Mobil 1 Instagram page and tell us that doesn’t look like a blast.
E-Ray Electric Drive Unit and AWD
The electrified motor in the E-Ray sends 160 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque to the front axle. The LT2 takes care of sending all of its power to the rear wheels. The all-wheel drive setup in the E-Ray can dynamically adjust in real time the power going to the front axle. This greatly improves traction and stability in all conditions. Even on snow and ice as you can clearly see in this demonstration. What is not made clear in the IG post is what tires the Corvette was running on, but it is safe to assume that they were at least dedicated snow tires, if not studded ice tires.
All Weather Corvette
Most people are not going to be driving their E-Ray around a track covered in snow and ice. However, this is an excellent demonstration of what the car is capable of. Owners or prospective owners should feel confident that they can drive the all-wheel drive Corvette in all seasons and still expect incredible performance. The E-Ray may not be the dedicated track weapon that the Z06 is. But the E-Ray is no slouch. And if you take one to a track day it will be quicker than most cars out there. And if it happens to be raining on that track day, the E-Ray will likely be quicker than even the vaunted Z06.
Images: Mobil 1 / Instagram
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