The seventh-generation 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will be the Indianapolis 500 Pace Car. It will lead the field to green at the start of the 97th running of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," on May 26, at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

As a matter of fact it will be the 12th time the Corvette has served as the Pace Car. The first one was chosen back in 1978. And now 2014 Corvette Stingray is perfect for this role, because its performance was influenced by racing.

This special Chevy is decked out in Laguna Blue Tintcoat and has on its doors the official Indianapolis 500 graphics. Corvette Stingray Pace Car differs from production models with only track-mandated safety features and strobe lights.

There were no powertrain modifications needed, thanks to the 6.2L LT1 engine, which includes advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection, continuously variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management. The estimated power produced from the Corvette is 450 hp (330 kW).

Some of the vehicle e highlights here include the following: the interior offers genuine carbon fiber and aluminum trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices.

Furthermore, advanced driver technologies are also featured: five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes and seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching. Carbon fiber hood and removable carbon fiber roof panel on coupes, composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels, carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminum frame - all help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance.

The Corvette Pace Car also features the track-oriented Z51 Performance Package. The latter includes an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, unique aero package.

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Indianapolis 500 Pace Car (2014)
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Source: Chevrolet