EXCLUSIVE: Fresh Rendering Imagines The Next Generation Chevrolet Camaro Hybrid

2022-10-10 22:17:16 By : Mr. ydel ydel

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We know GM is working on hybrid applications for their performance cars, the Corvette E-Ray arrives next year, and the Camaro is the logical next.

No car can claim to be a certifiable icon like the Chevrolet Camaro. The ever-present name is now in its 55th year of gracing showroom floors. But despite a loyal fan base, the nameplate's future is certifiably uncertain. Right now, General Motors is still warming over the nearly eight-year-old sixth-generation car and recently let fans know that 2024 would wrap up its production run. Unfortunately for fans, the General keeps its lips sealed over the future. While Ford is surprising fans with another generation of V8 Mustangs, it is unlikely General Motors will follow. While both companies are gearing up for an electric future, GM is taking an aggressive tone in the transition. By 2025 GM plans to produce 30 different electric products.

Despite this bold move, the future of the Camaro is likely in the middle as a hybrid. Many current manufacturers now see hybrid technology as a way to preserve the soul of the vehicle while still reducing carbon emissions. We know GM is working on hybrid applications for their performance cars, the Corvette E-Ray arrives next year, and the Camaro is the logical next step. In this fresh concept from our car rennders series, we imagine what that may look like.

Up front, things take an evolutionary route. The next-generation Camaro will likely not be a true generation leap but rather a version of the current car with extensive modifications, similar to the next-generation Mustang. The artist replaces the Camaro's controversial facelift gaping grille with a lower profile panel. The bumper houses two large air intakes to take care of brake ventilation. Meanwhile, a bulging scoop on the hood appears to enhance the muscle appearance throughout the hood, despite the fact that most of the substance would come from a battery. Heavy fender flares arch over wide tires before continuing into the side bodywork.

Related: This Concept Shows What The 2024 Chevrolet Camaro Could Look Like

Looking down the side of the Camaro, we see a very Corvette-like accent in the fender while a crisp bodyline runs down the door. The greenhouse of the vehicle remains essentially the same. Meanwhile, a deep recess along the bottom of the door gestures toward the rear wheel. Most notable along the rocker panel is a side exhaust outlet. We see this in hybrids like the original Fisker Karma, but it is still a rarity. The port may even be a nod to lake pipe trends of the 1960s. Wide hips above the rear wheels provide necessary shrouding, while a vent just behind compliments the one up front.

Related: EXCLUSIVE: The Corvette E-Ray Concept Signals The Beginning Of The Electrified Corvette Era

At the rear, the aggressive streak continues. A wide reflective spoiler with a small hybrid logo is one of only a few indications that this Camaro is unlike any other. It retains the signature taillights before moving down into the aggressive rear bumper, which pales in comparison to the unique diffuser. The deep diffuser does not feature exhaust ports, like many hybrids, as a nod to the electric side of the vehicle.

Since the Camaro would fit in beneath the Corvette E-Ray it is unlikely it would be a V-8 hybrid. Consumers can reasonably expect a hybrid system encompassing a V-6 engine. Perhaps something similar to the 3.6 liter twin-turbo unit in the Cadillac CT4-V. After combining an engine like that with electric motor torque and all-wheel-drive, all of the ingredients for one of the most compelling coupes on the market are there.

Related: 10 Things To Know Before Buying The 2022 Cadillac CT4

Since GM is going in an electric direction, a hybrid is likely the most realistic why the Camaro will move forward, and leaks from GM indicate that path. Though it is unlikely that there will be any confirmation from General Motors until the hybrid Corvette makes it to the market. Overall, this seems like a great way to save an enthusiast car, and we hope General Motors save the Camaro name in 2024.

Randy Gardner is a writer, entrepreneur, and general car nut based in Orlando, Florida. Randy was born into the car scene, spending his entire childhood hunting down and restoring classic cars with his father. From 1950s MoPars to 1980s Saabs, it's no surprise his primary focus is on the unloved underdogs of the car world. Randy began contributing to Hot Cars in March of 2021.