California Corvette Concept: GM’s Glimpse at an All-Electric Future

Chevrolet’s Corvette may be six years into its current (C8) generation, but GM is already looking ahead. With the next-gen C9 Corvette likely just a few years away, the company has started teasing us with bold concept designs—and one of them, the California Corvette Concept, might just hint at the Corvette’s all-electric future.

Created by GM’s Advanced Design Studio in Pasadena, California, this concept takes full inspiration from the laid-back, sunny vibe of Southern California. While another version from GM’s UK team featured futuristic gullwing doors and a split windshield, the California version takes a more open-air approach. Literally.

No Roof? No Problem

Instead of a traditional roof, this concept features a removable front-hinged canopy that gives the car a clean, open look when taken off—perfect for sunny days. When the canopy is attached, it still looks sleek and sporty.

According to GM designer Brian Smith, the idea was to create a Corvette with “duality of purpose”—a car that looks like a modern performance machine with the top on, but transforms into a roofless, track-ready experience when open.

Futuristic Inside and Out

Inside, the California Concept evolves the C8’s dual-cockpit layout into something even more futuristic. The design is minimalist, with fewer buttons and a clean digital display inspired by current Corvettes—but with a twist.

• A yoke-style steering wheel replaces the traditional wheel (hopefully better executed than Tesla’s earlier versions).
• A small digital display sits just ahead of the driver.
• Even though the car has no roof, it still includes a rollover protection bar between the headrests—like those seen in Formula One or IndyCar.

There’s even a spot for a wireless phone charger in the center console—yes, even concept cars think about your gadgets now.

Going Fully Electric – With a Twist

Unlike current Corvettes, this concept has no visible engine bay. That’s because it’s fully electric. Interestingly, it uses a T-shaped battery pack, similar to the one in the old Chevrolet Volt, rather than today’s common skateboard-style floor batteries.

• This design lowers the floor for a more race-car-like seating position.
• It allows for better aerodynamics, including a tunnel-style underbody in a carbon-fiber chassis.
• There’s also active aero like a rear spoiler that works as an air brake at high speeds.

Big Wheels, Big Hints

The concept rides on massive wheels—21-inch at the front and 22-inch at the rear, which gives it a true supercar stance. GM hasn’t officially said how many motors it has, but the design suggests:

• Likely an all-wheel-drive setup
• Possibly three motors: one at the front and two at the rear for serious performance

A Bold Vision for the Corvette’s Future

The California Corvette Concept isn’t a production car, but it gives a bold peek into what an electric Corvette could look like. With sharp design, a roofless experience, and cutting-edge electric tech, GM seems ready to take America’s iconic sports car into the future. And based on this concept, that future looks fast, fun, and very electric.