GM removes no-flip restriction on most Corvette models

GM ends Z06/E-Ray retention period

General Motors changed its rules to stop flipping on most new Corvettes. A memo sent to dealers on Nov. 17, 2025, removed the six-month retention period for the 2025 and 2026 E-Ray and Z06 models.

The restriction was first implemented before the launch of the 2023 Corvette Z06. The six-month hold still applies, however, to any E-Ray or Z06 vehicle delivered on or before Nov. 5, 2026. This action updates ownership rules for current Z06 and E-Ray buyers, while stricter rules remain for ZR1 and ZR1X.

The new 12-month hold on Corvette ZR1

Since the Z06 and E-Ray models were released, attention has shifted to the most potent of the new models. The 2025 ZR1 and 2026 ZR1/ZR1X are the only variants still subject to a retention period.

This hold requires the original buyer to keep the car for 12 months, or one full year, from the delivery date. The ZR1’s strict policy is justified by its exclusivity and its starting MSRP of $174,995.

Penalties for flipping the ZR1 model

The 12-month restriction carries severe penalties for buyers who violate it. The violator becomes ineligible to place a sold order for future high-demand models.

The most serious consequence is that the entire factory warranty on the flipped car is voided, including Powertrain coverage. This policy was implemented after Z06 models were resold for premiums of $50,000 to $100,000 above the sticker price.

Easing demand and Z06 pricing

GM introduced penalties to deter early resales (‘flipping’) on high-demand models; the separate 2023 reward-points incentive has since ended. The Z06’s base MSRP for the 2025 model year starts at $112,100.

The original program offered a loyalty reward of 500,000 My Chevy Rewards points, valued at $5,000, for buyers who kept their car past the limit in the 2023 model year. This reward was later discontinued for the 2024 and 2025 Z06 and E-Ray models.

Comparison of retention periods by model

The rules show a clear difference in strategy based on the car’s power. The standard Stingray model has never had an ownership restriction.

The Z06 and E-Ray models had a six-month retention period, which was lifted on Nov. 17, 2025. However, the ZR1 model remains subject to the stricter one-year retention period. The powerful ZR1 engine produces 1,064 horsepower.

Mandatory customer acknowledgment form

To ensure buyers understand the ZR1’s one-year retention rules, GM requires a new step in the purchase process. The original retail customer must sign a mandatory acknowledgment form for all high-demand models.

This document confirms that the buyer understands the warranty terms and conditions, including the penalties. This signed form is then attached to the dealer’s paperwork, commonly referred to as the deal jacket. The ZR1 model has an official top speed of 233 mph.

E-Ray’s advanced electric all-wheel drive

The E-Ray, which was recently lifted from a six-month hold, utilizes advanced hybrid technology. It is the first Corvette model ever to have an electrified all-wheel-drive system.

The car combines a 6.2-liter V-8 engine with a front-axle electric motor. This setup gives the E-Ray a combined total of 655 horsepower. The car uses this power to go from zero to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. The E-Ray starts at $108,600.

The Z06’s high-revving flat-plane crank

The Z06 model, also free from the restriction, is known for its specialized engine. It features a 5.5-liter LT6 engine, which is a naturally aspirated V-8 that produces 670 horsepower.

This engine features a flat-plane crankshaft, which enables it to rev up to a high redline of 8,600 rpm. The Z06 can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds and finishes the quarter-mile in 10.6 seconds.

ZR1X’s monstrous 1,250 horsepower

The ZR1X model is the new focus of the 12-month policy because of its extreme power. It is officially rated at a combined 1,250 horsepower. This power comes from a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8 engine and an electric motor.

The V-8 engine alone generates 1,064 horsepower, and the electric motor adds 186 horsepower. The immense power enables this car to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under 2.0 seconds.

ZR1X’s extreme braking and track modes

To control the ZR1X’s incredible speed, the car needs extreme stopping power. It comes standard with carbon-ceramic brakes, the largest ever put on a Corvette. These brakes feature huge 16.5-inch rotors in the front and back.

The front wheels have 10-piston calipers, and the rear wheels have six-piston calipers for maximum control. The car employs specialized energy strategies, such as “Endurance” and “Qualifying,” for use on the track.

Stingray’s base power and affordability

While the top-tier cars face restrictions, the base Corvette Stingray remains a strong option for buyers. For 2025, the Stingray starts at $68,300.

It is powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that makes up to 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Stingray can reach a top speed of 194 mph. This base model can go from zero to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds.

Want to know why a decades-old automotive partnership is wrapping up? Read more in A long-running GM Allison Transmission branding partnership ends.

The official delivery date for policy enforcement

The GM memo clearly states the final date for applying the ZR1 policy. The 12-month retention period applies to any ZR1 vehicles delivered on or before Nov. 5, 2026.

For those who sell early, the penalty voids the Bumper-to-Bumper and Powertrain warranties; however, the EV Battery Warranty coverage for the hybrid ZR1X remains unaffected as part of the penalty.

Curious why GM is feeling more optimistic about next year? Review the details in GM’s 2025 profit forecast as the tariff outlook improves.

Will lifting this rule change how collectors buy Corvettes? Share your thoughts below.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.