In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Reuss said, "actually, don't laugh" when the subject of a hybrid Corvette was brought up. "I think it would be really fun to do," he added, suggesting that it would build capability inside the company--and that people might even love it.
While this year's Corvette Stingray is the most advanced ever, offering direct injection and cylinder deactivation technology, General Motors Company [NYSE:GM] has generally kept the Corvette formula a fairly simple one. Big V-8 engine up front, drive going to the rear wheels, and a driver with a big grin sitting between them.
Gas mileage is better than ever and there's now a seventh ratio in the gearbox too, but the company is undecided on whether even to offer stop-start technology. Engineers are worried that such a system will add weight and cost, and compromise the car's image, but increasing efficiency is a major part of keeping vehicles like the Corvette alive over the coming years.
![Mark Reuss and the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Pace Car Mark Reuss and the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Pace Car](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/mark-reuss-and-the-2014-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-pace-car_100429379_l.jpg)
Mark Reuss and the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Pace Car
It's worth noting that hybrid technology also dominates in a form of motorsport much closer to Chevrolet's heart--GT racing. Corvettes have been a mainstay of American Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship for many years, and the GT racing environment puts more emphasis on fuel efficiency than most series.
Would you buy a Corvette hybrid? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
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