CORVETTE PRODUCTION FORCED TO BRIEFLY SHUT DOWN AGAIN

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: the C8 Corvette Stingray hasn’t had an easy life out of the gate. The radically groundbreaking vehicle for saw two major setbacks with the 2019 UAW strike, followed by the Coronavirus pandemic, where each event threw a massive wrench in the vehicle’s production plans. The plant was shut down multiple times, production timeline has been altered dramatically, some accessories have disappeared and orders are have been pushed to 2021. But just as things were getting better on the production side of things, they’ve shut down again. This time, according to The Detroit News, the C8 Corvette production shutdown will run November 12-13, and is due to a supplier.

The issue comes from an unknown Mexican supplier. With COVID-19 cases rising globally, Mexico is one of many countries that has implemented new restrictions, and this supplier is affected. The C8 Corvette’s wiring harnesses are a major part made in Mexico, so there’s a good chance this is the culprit. Luckily, the shutdown won’t last long, and production should be up and running like usual on Monday, November 16.

“We expect to resume normal operations on Monday, Nov. 16. Our supply chain, manufacturing and engineering teams are working closely with our supply base to mitigate any further impact on production,” GM spokesman David Barnas told The Detroit News.

It’s unclear, however, if this will affect the ever changing 2020 Corvette production calendar. Currently, the 2020 model will end production on December 7, and the 2021 model will begin the very next day, on December 8. GM may decide to continue as planned, or they may push back the 2021 model by two days.

When the 2021 model comes, it won’t be a major update, but rather add a few nice options. Two new colors, Red Mist Metallic and Silver Flare Metallic, join the range, as does a Sky Cool Gray and Yellow Strike interior color. 2021 Corvette buyers will also get access to many more stripe options, letting owners make their sports car more unique. Down the line, the Corvette is expected to gain a number of carbon fiber accessories not previously available.