The Corvette model introduced for 2023 that uses a flat-plane-crankshaft V8 is the Z06.
The C8 Z06 uses Chevrolet’s 5.5-liter LT6, a naturally aspirated DOHC V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft. It entered production in 2022 for the 2023 model year, making it the high-performance, track-focused counterpart to the regular Stingray. The engine produces 670 horsepower and revs to an 8,600-rpm redline.
A flat-plane crankshaft places its crankpins in a single plane, allowing an even firing pattern that resembles two inline-four engines working together. The design reduces rotating mass and helps the engine rev quickly, but it can create more vibration and a sharper exhaust character than the cross-plane crankshafts traditionally associated with American V8s.
The Z06 is often confused with the E-Ray because both have widened C8 bodywork and serious performance hardware. Their engines are fundamentally different: the E-Ray uses the 6.2-liter LT2 and adds an electric front motor, while the Z06 relies on the high-revving LT6 and rear-wheel drive. The Z06’s engine also shares racing-engine inspiration with the C8.R program.