2018 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Blitzes Nurburgring, Lap Record Rumors Intensify

The piece of footage at the bottom of the page showcases the latest ZR1 prototype sighting and the news is as good as ever.

For one thing, the uber-Corvette is one of the loudest test cars to have lapped the Ring this year - notice those add-on tailpipes? Those are there because the new ZR1 is too loud for the Nordschleife.

Then there's the extreme aero package of the thing. While another ZR1 prototype lapping the Ring has shown a tiny rear spoiler, the one we have here sports a hefty wing.

We've even seen the 2018 ZR1 jumping from one rumble-strip to another with a camera taped to its nose. Of course, we all wondered what the Chevy guys wanted to record.

And this is where the rumor mill steps in, with the upcoming 'Vette range topper said to have the potential to deliver a new production car lap record.

Such a stunt would require the 2018 Chevrolet Corvette to beat the 6:52 lap time set by the Lamborghini Huracan Performante earlier this season.

Interestingly, the automaker has managed to prevent us from finding out what hides under the bulged hood of the supercar. The rumor that seems to have gained the most traction so far involves an all-new 6.2-liter LT5 DOHC V8.

However, other aficionados expect the monster Corvette to pack a pumped-up incarnation of the 650 hp LT4 motor that animates the Z06. This path would require a monumental cooling upgrade, since the Z06's overheating issues are not a secret.

Given all the Nurburgring sightings, we expect Chevy to make an official announcement soon.