The seventh generation Corvette (codenamed C7) when launched earlier this year resurrected the ‘Stingray’ moniker after nearly four decades. A new Corvette for a new generation of petrol heads, it has been given many improvements over its predecessor and among the many changes, the C7 gets an all-new eight speed Automatic Transmission. As per a technical paper published by Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) the gearbox is codenamed 8L90 and will send power to the rear wheels.
This eight-speeder can handle 1,000Nm of torque which is more than sufficient. With an overall ratio spread of 7.0, the acceleration and fuel efficiency figures are bound to improve. The Corvette’s fuel efficiency figure with the seven-speed manual gearbox is rated at 12.3 kmpl, while the existing auto box manages 11.9 kmpl (overall). The new transmission can extend the lead by a kilomtere over the current auto box and it won’t be a surprise if it turns out to be more fuel efficient than the manual Corvette.
The Chevrolet Stingray AT is expected to be showcased at the Detroit Motor Show next month, but the new auto box won’t be available off the blocks and it is expected to go on sale only in 2015.
