Chevy unveils green machine to pace 2008 Indy 500
By National Post
January 4, 2008
One of two Corvette pace cars slated to lead the pack at the 2008 Indianapolis 500 will highlight General Motors' increasing commitment to alternative fuel solutions.
The Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car will run on E85 ethanol fuel, similar to the E100 that powers the race cars in the IndyCar Series. The pace car is based on the production Z06 and blends its performance with the renewable fuel that is derived from a variety of crops, notably corn.
Apart from the fuel system and powertrain controller revisions required to run E85, the pace car is mechanically stock. It is distinguished by a unique Gold Rush Green colour-shifting paint scheme that changes between hues of green and gold when viewed from different angles and in different light. A checkered flag pattern also is part of the paint scheme. Safety equipment and strobe lights are the only other equipment added to the car, which will be driven during the race's pace lap by two-time Indy 500 champion Emerson Fittipaldi.
"Although not a production FlexFuel vehicle, the Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car is a high-performance example of Chevrolet's gas-friendly to gas-free initiative," says Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.
The other official pace car is a black-and-silver commemorative edition that marks the 30th anniversary of the 1978 pace car -- the first Corvette to pace the field at the Indianapolis 500.
In addition to the exterior colour scheme, the anniversary models are equipped with a special, two-tone titanium-colour interior, with the Indianapolis 500 logo embroidered on the seats. Each replica will be personally signed and numbered by Fittipaldi.
Chevrolet will produce a total of 500 replicas in both coupe and convertible form.
Both come equipped with Corvette's 3LT option package, Z51 performance package and dual-mode exhaust.
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