European enthusiasts of the Chevrolet Corvette have had to wait nearly two years for the arrival of the officially homologated Corvette E-Ray, the brand’s first all-wheel drive hybrid sports car. That wait is finally over, as the E-Ray is now officially available for purchase across Europe. However, while the car brings the same impressive tech and performance features that U.S. customers have already enjoyed—such as the quiet Stealth Mode—European buyers will be paying a significant premium for the experience. In fact, thanks to various import-related costs and exchange rate differences, the price of the E-Ray almost doubles once it crosses the Atlantic.
The hybrid Corvette E-Ray made its European debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, showcasing its performance in a few demonstration runs, notably in a right-hand drive configuration, which is essential for success in markets like the UK. The UK version of the E-Ray starts at £153,440 for the coupe and £159,230 for the convertible, which might not seem unreasonable when compared to rivals like the McLaren Artura PHEV (£190,100) or the new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS hybrid (£144,400). However, the difference becomes striking when comparing the same car’s price in the U.S.
In the United States, the Corvette E-Ray starts at $108,795, which makes the UK price—equivalent to around $208,000 at current exchange rates—look extremely steep. That’s nearly twice the American cost, despite the car being essentially the same. Even when compared to future high-performance Corvettes like the anticipated ZR1X, which is expected to retail between $190,000 and $200,000, the E-Ray’s European pricing raises eyebrows.
There are, of course, a few justifications for the inflated European price tag. Factors such as weaker currency exchange rates, sales taxes in U.S. states, and the fact that the E-Ray is only sold in the fully-loaded 3LZ trim in Europe (while U.S. buyers can choose more affordable 1LZ and 2LZ versions) all contribute to the discrepancy. Additionally, engineering costs related to the right-hand drive adaptation may impact UK pricing, though this doesn’t explain high prices in left-hand drive mainland Europe.
Performance-wise, the European E-Ray retains the 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 that powers the rear wheels, paired with an electric motor that drives the front wheels, giving it all-wheel drive capability. Total system output is 635 horsepower, slightly below the 655 hp figure claimed in the U.S. Still, both versions offer Stealth Mode, enabling electric-only driving up to 72 km/h for short distances of 5–7 km, thanks to a modest 1.9 kWh battery. Though not a plug-in hybrid, this feature allows for quiet departures, ideal for early morning drives without disturbing the neighborhood.
while the Corvette E-Ray brings innovative hybrid technology and enhanced traction to the iconic American sports car, European buyers will have to pay dearly for the privilege. Whether the performance and exclusivity justify the price hike remains to be seen.