Tuned Chevrolet Corvette C8 Hits Dyno to Produce 1,350 Horsepower at Wheels

GM has left it up to tuners to figure out how to get more power out of theChevroletCorvette C8.The car's various cybersecurity systems make it difficult for tuners to modify the parameters of the powertrain, but, as we've seen time and time again, it's not impossible.FuelTech has a new video on its YouTube page showing its modified C8 producing a whopping 1,350 (1,006 kilowatts) of power at the wheels.

FuelTech refers to the car's output as a "world record," which likely applies to a race-only product.The company estimates that the engine makes about 1,500 horsepower (1,118 kilowatts) at the crank, with the extra power requiring extensive modifications to achieve, if not more.The 6.2-liter LT2 V8 features two Garrett G35-900 turbos, which undoubtedly help boost output, but FuelTech has also added a second fuel delivery system.A new parallel-running ECU system keeps it running smoothly while avoiding the C8's control unit from locking up.

However, according to the tuner's video description, the world-record output was "mainly due to a new transmission strategy."FuelTech installed a second FT600 control system to control the transmission, but the company apparently didn't provide specifics.Many of the modifications are designed to circumvent or avoid the C8's stock control units, which strictly limit what can and cannot be changed after the car leaves the factory.

C8 Corvette production began more than a year ago, andChevroletis already preparing the Z06 for its October launch, and even with the tuner's significant progress, it's still challenging to get more performance out of the car.However, due to cost reasons, it is difficult to find affordable consumer solutions.Tinkering with engine, fuel and transmission controls isn't for everyone, limiting the types of tuning and upgrades available.Thankfully, we'll only have to wait a few more weeks to see the debut of the Z06, which packs a whopping 617 hp (460 kW) from its 5.5-liter V8.