Thermal management Corvette ZR1 with perforated air vents

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Graepel GmbH

Taiwan Machine Tool & Accessory Builders' Association (TMBA)

The US car manufacturer Chevrolet is catapulting the Corvette into new dimensions. With 1,064 hp, the ZR1 becomes the most powerful production model in the brand's history—featuring sophisticated technology made in Germany.

In 2025, Chevrolet is launching the fastest and most powerful Corvette of all time. The ZR1 model features a V8 engine that delivers 1,064 hp. To allow such a powerful engine to reach its full potential, good aerodynamics and thermal management are required. Among other things, the supplier Graepel has designed special ventilation grilles for the sports car.

Precision in design and aerodynamic efficiency

Chevrolet describes the engine in a press release as the result of technical feats, including the completely new intake system and the special intake and exhaust channels. Graepel worked closely with Chevrolet to ensure optimal air circulation for effective cooling of the high-performance engine. Thus, the Corvette ZR1 is equipped with an entirely new hood that features a precisely crafted metal ventilation grille. The tolerances of this grille are as fine as a human hair. Additionally, Graepel contributes the side vents at the rear, as well as five bumper grilles and exhaust trims that were taken from the Corvette Z06 model.

The hood with the integrated air outlet contributes significantly to the body of the Corvette ZR1. Most importantly, however, it improves cooling and downforce on the front axle. The new intercooler with flow hood and spoiler cools the turbocharged air. Fresh air enters through the front grille, flows through the intercooler heat exchanger, and exits through the opening in the hood to reduce charge air temperature and direct airflow. The front splitter, combined with a spoiler and a smooth underbody, creates a suction under the vehicle that maximizes downforce and reduces drag.

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Integration of form and function

Additionally, unique carbon fiber air intakes are integrated on the top of the coupe's rear hatch. These draw in fresh air to lower the intake air temperature of the turbocharger. These design decisions, along with the placement of the perforated vents, optimize the vehicle's aerodynamic profile and make it a racing machine.

While each ventilation opening serves a specific functional purpose, they simultaneously contribute to the striking design of the vehicle. The hood with the integrated ventilation grille is a distinctive design element that seamlessly fits into the aesthetic of the Corvette ZR1 while ensuring outstanding performance. Michael Hugenberg, head of project management at Graepel North America, considers the design of the ventilation grilles to be a perfect blend of aesthetics, cooling function, and precision engineering. "We are very proud to be part of this American supercar icon!"

The ventilation grilles from the traditional company located in Oldenburg Münsterland (Germany) offer a large open cross-section through their bionic honeycomb structure while providing maximum structural strength. Graepel is convinced that the resulting lightweight construction brings decisive advantages for the automotive industry. The company, which has been a supplier for vehicles of all kinds for over 130 years, operates with locations in Germany, the USA, India, and Hungary.

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