Sunday
Jun222025
JUNE 25, 2025
Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 07:56AM 
The original - and still our favorite - Autoextremist logo.
The AE Quote of the Century: Everybody loves The High-Octane Truth. Until they don't. -WG
SPECIAL EDITOR'S NOTE: We're thrilled to announce the debut of Peter's first work of fiction, "St. Michael of Birmingham." Make no mistake, it doesn't resemble anything you've read from him before. In fact, it is quite a dramatic departure. It is mystical. It is sexy. It is funny. It's moving. And it is a flat-out wild ride unlike anything you've experienced. Having said that, it is definitely not for everyone, but then, it is from PMD, so that probably shouldn't come as a surprise! Check it out on Amazon Kindle here. -WG
(GM)
Big news from GM. Chevrolet is introducing an all-wheel drive Corvette ZR1: the 2026 Corvette ZR1X. With 1,250HP and electrified all-wheel drive, Chevrolet PR minions are calling the ZR1X "a true American hypercar and the most advanced Corvette ever."
ZR1X features include:
ZR1X features include:
-
LT7 twin-turbo V8: 1,064HP at 7,000 rpm, 828 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm
-
Front-axle motor: 186HP and 145 lb-ft of torque
- GM-estimated 0-60 time: Under 2 seconds
-
GM-estimated ¼ mile: Under 9 seconds, with trap speed over 150 mph
“From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with ZR1X in mind,” said General Motors senior VP Ken Morris. “This is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history, supporting the widest range of American sports cars and delivering world-class performance at every level.” America’s hypercar starts with the ZR1’s LT7 V8, generating more power than any other V8 produced by an American auto manufacturer — 1,064HP and 828 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. With a forged flat-plane crankshaft, finger-follower valvetrain, and dry-sump lubrication, this hand-built 5.5-liter Gemini small-block V8 was developed alongside the naturally aspirated flat-plane crankshaft engines powering the Corvette Z06 and Z06 GT3.R race car. This V8 includes:
- Dual 76-mm turbochargers
- A “maniturbo” exhaust design that combines the manifold and turbocharger housing to get the turbos as close to the exhaust valves as possible, improving throttle response by decreasing time needed to build boost
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Dynamic anti-lag controls that maintain turbo speed when off-throttle in certain situations so boost is available rapidly when throttle is reapplied
While the ZR1 embodies the rear-wheel drive precedent set by prior generations, the Corvette team added all-wheel drive capability for a new take on performance. ZR1X benefits from the foundation set in 2024 by E-Ray, the first-ever AWD Corvette, combining a high-voltage battery pack and electric motor driving the front axle with V8 propulsion turning the rear axle. There is no physical connection between the two power sources on ZR1X, and the electrified propulsion system does not require a plug-in — charging takes place through regenerative efforts from the front drive unit. ZR1X’s battery pack, located low and centralized within the rigid spine of the chassis, was designed specifically to rapidly cycle between applying bursts of power and charging. This robust pack has been tested at tracks around the world and conquered Corvette’s 24-hour track durability test. While the battery capacity is 1.9 kWh like the E-Ray, the usable energy has grown to provide greater lapping capability. This improvement raises the peak operating voltage, which increases the power output from the front drive unit. The compact electric motor on the front axle is capable of 186HP and 145 lb-ft of torque on demand. While retaining the same shape and size of the E-Ray front drive unit, the ZR1X unit pairs strengthened internal components and improvements in energy deployment to generate an additional 26HP and 20 lb-ft of torque. The front axle is engaged and can apply power through 160 mph before disconnecting, directly benefitting ZR1X’s quarter-mile acceleration stats and on-track balance.
The eAWD chassis controls system designed for E-Ray has undergone a significant upgrade for ZR1X. With the benefit of experience on this electrified AWD architecture, the development team applied knowledge from E-Ray to solutions specifically for the LT7’s character and capability. The result is evident in on-road drivability and on-track performance. ZR1X is constantly monitoring driver inputs and vehicle conditions to blend power at both axles for responsiveness and traction management. On track, ZR1X utilizes specialized energy strategies designed to maximize electrified output based on track session demands and driver preferences:
The eAWD chassis controls system designed for E-Ray has undergone a significant upgrade for ZR1X. With the benefit of experience on this electrified AWD architecture, the development team applied knowledge from E-Ray to solutions specifically for the LT7’s character and capability. The result is evident in on-road drivability and on-track performance. ZR1X is constantly monitoring driver inputs and vehicle conditions to blend power at both axles for responsiveness and traction management. On track, ZR1X utilizes specialized energy strategies designed to maximize electrified output based on track session demands and driver preferences:
- Endurance – Engaging the Charge+ button adjusts the battery’s energy storage strategy for extended lapping and consistent eAWD output for a full tank of fuel
- Qualifying – Optimum power strategy for the ultimate lap time
-
Push-to-Pass – Max available power on-demand
PTM Pro, new for 2026 on all Corvettes, was designed with ZR1X in mind. PTM Pro delivers the purest driving experience. While this setting turns off traction and stability control, the following features remain active:
- Regen Brake Torque Vectoring – engineered to recover peak energy without sacrificing agility
- Front Axle Pre-Control – actively manages inside front brake pressure to enable maximum corner-exit traction
-
Launch Control – customizable settings enable rapid acceleration from a rest
The ZR1X balances impressive power with robust brakes specifically developed with this car in mind. The J59 braking package, standard on ZR1X and an option on ZR1, is a clean-sheet design intended for superior heat resistance and ultra-responsive braking. Alcon 10-piston front and 6-piston rear calipers are mated to 16.5-inch front and rear rotors — the largest diameter rotors ever offered on Corvette. The rotors are carbon ceramic, constructed with continuously woven carbon fiber threads. This is the most resilient production car braking system ever tested by GM. And during testing, the J59-equipped Corvettes achieve 1.9G of deceleration from 180 to 120 mph.
ZR1X is offered in two chassis configurations that both feature magnetic ride control — adjusting to the vehicle’s mode, driver inputs and the road surface for optimal control. The standard chassis, accompanied by Michelin PS4S tires, makes for a comfortable touring car on-road and a highly capable Corvette at the track. The available ZTK Performance Package incorporates higher spring rates and is firmer. Paired with the grip of Michelin’s Pilot Cup 2R tires, this is the pinnacle of Corvette performance. Customers can equip the high-downforce Carbon Aero package to a standard chassis ZR1X, adding dive planes, underbody strakes, a hood gurney lip over the front heat extractor and a highly effective rear wing. This package is capable of 1,200 lbs of downforce at top speed and comes standard on ZTK-equipped cars.
GM is calling the 2026 Corvette ZR1X "the ultimate expression of the no-compromise eighth generation platform. It’s an all-day comfortable tourer, a straight-line rocket, and a racetrack weapon, all in one." Like every Corvette in the lineup, ZR1X will be available in coupe or hardtop convertible body style. ZR1X enters the market with Corvette's freshened interior revealed last month. A new three-screen layout and reimagined console design, real-time vehicle data provided by the built-in Performance App, and new colors and high-quality materials all highlight the 2026 Corvette interior.
Every ZR1X will be proudly built in America at General Motors’ Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky from U.S. and globally sourced parts, with every LT7 engine hand-assembled by the master engine builders at the Bowling Green Performance Build Center. Further details on price and availability will be shared closer to production. Watch videos here and here.
ZR1X is offered in two chassis configurations that both feature magnetic ride control — adjusting to the vehicle’s mode, driver inputs and the road surface for optimal control. The standard chassis, accompanied by Michelin PS4S tires, makes for a comfortable touring car on-road and a highly capable Corvette at the track. The available ZTK Performance Package incorporates higher spring rates and is firmer. Paired with the grip of Michelin’s Pilot Cup 2R tires, this is the pinnacle of Corvette performance. Customers can equip the high-downforce Carbon Aero package to a standard chassis ZR1X, adding dive planes, underbody strakes, a hood gurney lip over the front heat extractor and a highly effective rear wing. This package is capable of 1,200 lbs of downforce at top speed and comes standard on ZTK-equipped cars.
GM is calling the 2026 Corvette ZR1X "the ultimate expression of the no-compromise eighth generation platform. It’s an all-day comfortable tourer, a straight-line rocket, and a racetrack weapon, all in one." Like every Corvette in the lineup, ZR1X will be available in coupe or hardtop convertible body style. ZR1X enters the market with Corvette's freshened interior revealed last month. A new three-screen layout and reimagined console design, real-time vehicle data provided by the built-in Performance App, and new colors and high-quality materials all highlight the 2026 Corvette interior.
Every ZR1X will be proudly built in America at General Motors’ Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky from U.S. and globally sourced parts, with every LT7 engine hand-assembled by the master engine builders at the Bowling Green Performance Build Center. Further details on price and availability will be shared closer to production. Watch videos here and here.
(Photos by Tom Pease)
Concours d’Elegance on Rodeo Drive, June 2025.
By Tom Pease.
Beverly Hills. Father's Day was marked in Beverly Hills by the 30th anniversary of the annual Concours d’Elegance on Rodeo Drive, where the shopping portion of the famous street is closed off to vehicular traffic and given over to a display of some serious dream machines. This year was hosted by local dealer O’Gara Coach, who showed a bunch of new stuff I didn’t care about. What I did care about I took some photos of, going before the crowds got too crowded and the heat too hot. This year, they seemed to stage some of the cars in vignettes by year - a group of late 50’s and early 60’s convertibles, top down, as if at the Valet at The Luau or a group of seriously stylish 1930’s rigs like a gorgeous Stutz that looked like Garbo may have alighted from on her way to lunch at the Brown Derby with John Gilbert, who’s Imperial was parked behind. My favorite was perhaps the original Helms Bakery truck, a relic from the days when bread, milk, and ice were delivered. The street was also dotted with sculptures by Mr. Brainstorm, who has taken over the old Museum of Television and Radio for his art (see the movie “Exit Through the Gift Shop” for an explanation) and has hung some plastic facsimiles of sports cars on the facade.
Walking home, I picked up my own car and took it out for its Sunday “charge the battery” cruise. Going up Benedict Cañon I saw Jay Leno waiting for the light at Summit Drive in some big torpedo-shaped stainless steel thing, maybe on the way to visit (and perhaps upstage) the flashy debut vehicles from Lamborghini. Only in LA.
If you’re around LA on Father’s Day weekend next year, make a point to stop by the show. It’s great fun and free. Bring sunblock, water, and patience.
By Tom Pease.
Beverly Hills. Father's Day was marked in Beverly Hills by the 30th anniversary of the annual Concours d’Elegance on Rodeo Drive, where the shopping portion of the famous street is closed off to vehicular traffic and given over to a display of some serious dream machines. This year was hosted by local dealer O’Gara Coach, who showed a bunch of new stuff I didn’t care about. What I did care about I took some photos of, going before the crowds got too crowded and the heat too hot. This year, they seemed to stage some of the cars in vignettes by year - a group of late 50’s and early 60’s convertibles, top down, as if at the Valet at The Luau or a group of seriously stylish 1930’s rigs like a gorgeous Stutz that looked like Garbo may have alighted from on her way to lunch at the Brown Derby with John Gilbert, who’s Imperial was parked behind. My favorite was perhaps the original Helms Bakery truck, a relic from the days when bread, milk, and ice were delivered. The street was also dotted with sculptures by Mr. Brainstorm, who has taken over the old Museum of Television and Radio for his art (see the movie “Exit Through the Gift Shop” for an explanation) and has hung some plastic facsimiles of sports cars on the facade.
Walking home, I picked up my own car and took it out for its Sunday “charge the battery” cruise. Going up Benedict Cañon I saw Jay Leno waiting for the light at Summit Drive in some big torpedo-shaped stainless steel thing, maybe on the way to visit (and perhaps upstage) the flashy debut vehicles from Lamborghini. Only in LA.
If you’re around LA on Father’s Day weekend next year, make a point to stop by the show. It’s great fun and free. Bring sunblock, water, and patience.
The AE Song of the Week
So, so you think you can tell
Heaven from hell?
Blue skies from pain?
Can you tell a green field
From a cold steel rail?
A smile from a veil?
Do you think you can tell?
Did they get you to trade
Your heroes for ghosts?
Hot ashes for trees?
Hot air for a cool breeze?
Cold comfort for change?
Did you exchange
A walk-on part in the war
For a lead role in a cage?
How I wish, how I wish you were here
We're just two lost souls
Swimming in a fishbowl
Year after year
Running over the same old ground
What have we found?
The same old fears
Wish you were here
Heaven from hell?
Blue skies from pain?
Can you tell a green field
From a cold steel rail?
A smile from a veil?
Do you think you can tell?
Did they get you to trade
Your heroes for ghosts?
Hot ashes for trees?
Hot air for a cool breeze?
Cold comfort for change?
Did you exchange
A walk-on part in the war
For a lead role in a cage?
How I wish, how I wish you were here
We're just two lost souls
Swimming in a fishbowl
Year after year
Running over the same old ground
What have we found?
The same old fears
Wish you were here
"Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd from the album "Wish You Were Here" (1975).* Written by David Gilmour and Roger Waters. Publisher: BMG Rights Management, C&C Digital Services OÜ (UniteSync), CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Royalty Network, Sentric Music, Songtrust Ave, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Ultra Tunes, Universal Music Publishing Group. Lyrics licensed and provided by LyricFind. Watch it live from Earl's Court, London, in 1994 here.
*"Wish You Were Here" is about the detached feeling many of us float through life with. It's a commentary on how people cope with the world by withdrawing physically, mentally, or emotionally. The main inspiration was Pink Floyd founding member Syd Barrett and his ordeal with schizophrenia. Roger Waters based the song on a poem he wrote about Syd Barrett's break from reality. In a 2022 interview with Joe Rogan, he clarified that "Wish You Were Here" was "partially" about Barrett, adding, "And I do wish he was here." Waters believes LSD fed into Barrett's eventual insanity but wasn't the sole cause, as he suspected Barrett was already teetering on the edge of schizophrenia. Waters watched Barrett slowly unwinding as the band rose to stardom, particularly after they released "Arnold Layne."
One anecdote Waters recalls in the interview is walking with Barrett outside Capitol Records in Los Angeles. Barrett looked at him and said, "It's nice here in Las Vegas, isn't it?" His face then darkened, and he spat out the word, "People!" The moment was characteristic of the disjoined nature of Barrett's mind leading up to his total break with reality. Barrett's decline was personally painful but also professionally frightening, as the band relied on him to write the bulk of their songs. When Waters realized they were losing him, he took control of the songwriting. This was a rare case of the Pink Floyd primary songwriters Roger Waters and David Gilmour mutually collaborating on a song - they rarely wrote together. Gilmour had the opening riff written and was playing it in the studio at a fast pace when Roger Waters heard it and asked him to play it slower. The song built from there, with the pair writing the music for the chorus and verses together, and Waters adding the lyrics.
"Wish You Were Here" is the title track to Pink Floyd's ninth album, their follow-up to The Dark Side Of The Moon. The song reflects the feeling in the studio while they were recording the album. Waters felt they had checked out and weren't putting a full effort into the recording sessions. He once said the song could have been called "Wish We Were Here." When this song starts, it sounds like it is coming from an AM radio somewhere in the distance. This represents the distance between the listener and the music. (Knowledge courtesy of Songfacts.com)
One anecdote Waters recalls in the interview is walking with Barrett outside Capitol Records in Los Angeles. Barrett looked at him and said, "It's nice here in Las Vegas, isn't it?" His face then darkened, and he spat out the word, "People!" The moment was characteristic of the disjoined nature of Barrett's mind leading up to his total break with reality. Barrett's decline was personally painful but also professionally frightening, as the band relied on him to write the bulk of their songs. When Waters realized they were losing him, he took control of the songwriting. This was a rare case of the Pink Floyd primary songwriters Roger Waters and David Gilmour mutually collaborating on a song - they rarely wrote together. Gilmour had the opening riff written and was playing it in the studio at a fast pace when Roger Waters heard it and asked him to play it slower. The song built from there, with the pair writing the music for the chorus and verses together, and Waters adding the lyrics.
"Wish You Were Here" is the title track to Pink Floyd's ninth album, their follow-up to The Dark Side Of The Moon. The song reflects the feeling in the studio while they were recording the album. Waters felt they had checked out and weren't putting a full effort into the recording sessions. He once said the song could have been called "Wish We Were Here." When this song starts, it sounds like it is coming from an AM radio somewhere in the distance. This represents the distance between the listener and the music. (Knowledge courtesy of Songfacts.com)
Editor's Note: You can access previous issues of AE by clicking on "Next 1 Entries" below. - WG
