Bowling Green, Kentucky has been the birthplace of new Chevrolet Corvettes for over 40 years. The facility began with the then-new 1984 C4 Corvette and now includes C8 assembly. Much of the plant was upgraded to make that happen, as mentioned in a new 42-minute YouTube feature from savagegeese, along with other interesting Corvette details.
This video demonstrates how Corvette production differs from other Chevrolet vehicles, and not just because the engine is located behind the driver. For example, the process begins with individual body panels being painted immediately and then being sent off for assembly later. During this time, the aluminium tub is being manufactured (it is technically the only Corvette component manufactured at the plant; everything else is simply assembled). The tub is delivered to the trim department, where the interior, glass, and other similar items are installed.
The drivetrain is installed next in the chassis area. The LT2 V8 in the Stingray and E-Ray arrives in Bowling Green fully assembled and ready to go, but the 5.5-liter LT6 in the Z06 is hand-built on-site. Before being installed in the chassis, the high-revving engine is dyno tested for 20 minutes to ensure everything works properly.
Suspension and undercar panels are also installed in the chassis area before the car is placed on the moving “skillet” for the assembly of all painted body panels. Before rolling off the line for dynamic testing, completed cars are subjected to a final inspection. It takes two days to build a new Corvette from start to finish, assuming no problems arise. At full capacity, the Bowling Green line produces 200 cars per day.
The video includes interviews with many plant leaders in various roles, as well as scenes of assembly. We’re given more information about Z06 engine builds, categorising and installing the many Corvette options and packages, factory supply chains, expected production times and speeds, and more. In short, it’s an intriguing look at how America’s enduring sports car comes together from the outside.
