GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) and Chevrolet Racing have staged a surprise preview of a sensational new homegrown concept vehicle which provides a sneak-peak at the latest addition to the brand’s new model portfolio ahead of its launch early next year.
“The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 will be a new model to the GMSV line-up for MY23 and will deliver next-level off-road capability direct from the factory – making it the perfect platform for this latest announcement from Chevrolet Racing,” said Tim Price, Director of Planning, Network and Motorsport, GM Australia and New Zealand (GM ANZ).
“What started as a passion project 12-months ago across GM teams in Australia and New Zealand quickly transformed into the creation you see today.”
The Off-Road Racer concept was built at the company’s Port Melbourne workshop by an enthusiastic group of GM employee volunteers and was taken to the next level with the involvement of Chevrolet Racing.
This included exchanged learnings with GM Motorsports Division in the USA and tapping into knowledge of Hall Racing, especially related to suspension development, through their own 2022 championship winning Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 in the gruelling ‘Best in the Desert’ off-road racing series.
Initial testing and development will take place early in 2023, with Supercars legend Craig Lowndes to provide expert feedback and analysis on the performance of the concept.
The programme was managed by Mark Wakeman, a GM ANZ employee who has been involved in off-road racing for the past 25-years.
“I am extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to lead the project and I am grateful for the support GM ANZ management has provided to the team. I would also like to express sincere gratitude to our partners who have been involved in this incredible journey. It demonstrates the dedication and enthusiasm the team at GM ANZ has for a project of this magnitude,” said Mr Wakeman.
The Silverado ZR2 Off-Road Racer concept will be on display as part of the GMSV activation at the Adelaide 500 this weekend, alongside the Corvette Stingray and Chevrolet Silverado models plus the 3,500hp Chevrolet Racing Pro Slammer drag car. A C8 Corvette Stingray will also act as a safety car for support categories participating in racing across the event.
From a GMSV perspective, the upcoming launch of the first-ever Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 will add a new level of off-road capability and performance to the brand’s portfolio.
