Chevrolet reveals new Silverado off-road racer concept

GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) and Chevrolet Racing have given a preview of its new Silverado ZR2 Off-Road Racer concept car.

The new Off-Road Racer concept vehicle is the latest addition to the brand’s new model portfolio, set to be launched in early 2023.

Ahead of its official launch early next year, the Silverado will be on display as part of the GMSV activation at this weekend’s VALO Adelaide 500.

Tickets are on sale now.

The Chevrolet Racing brand will complement the Gen3 Camaro joining the 2023 Repco Supercars Championship.

The Off-Road Racer concept was built at the company’s Port Melbourne workshop by an enthusiastic group of GM employee volunteers before the project was embraced by Chevrolet Racing.

“The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 will be a new model to the GMSV line-up for MY23,” said Tim Price, Director of Planning, Network and Motorsport, GM Australia and New Zealand (GM ANZ).

“It will deliver next-level off-road capability direct from the factory - making it the perfect platform for this latest announcement from Chevrolet Racing.

“What started as a passion project 12-months ago across GM teams in Australia and New Zealand quickly transformed into the creation you see today.”

The Silverado ZR2 will feature the impressive 6.2-litre V8 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The car was revealed in the same black and gold livery as the Gen3 Supercar.

Initial testing and development of the off-road concept car will take place early in 2023, with Craig Lowndes providing expert feedback and analysis on the performance of the concept.

It comes after Chevrolet Racing revealed its new 3500hp Camaro-based drag car at October’s Repco Bathurst 1000.

The ‘Slammer’ drag car features a supercharged V8 that will see the car clock the quarter mile in under 5.7s at speeds over 410 km/h.

The drag car will also be on display in Adelaide, alongside the Corvette Stingray and Chevrolet Silverado models.

The Silverado ZR2 Off-Road Racer concept programme was managed by Mark Wakeman, a GM ANZ employee who has been involved in off-road racing for the past 25 years.

“I am extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to lead the project,” Wakeman said.

“I am grateful for the support GM ANZ management has provided to the team.

“I would also like to express sincere gratitude to our partners who have been involved in this incredible journey. 

“It demonstrates the dedication and enthusiasm the team at GM ANZ has for a project of this magnitude.”