The 2023 Corvette Z06’s Exclusive New Manual Launch Mode Will Be a Tire-Smoking Good Time

As each new day brings us one step closer to the start of production for the 2023 Corvette Z06, we continue to learn about some new features on America’s Newest Sportscar that have yet to be discussed. One new exclusive feature we found in the 2023 Corvette Owner’s Manual for the Z06 is called “Manual Launch Mode” and you’re going to love it!

We’ll get to HOW in just a sec, but first here is the WHY:

Manual Launch mode is a quick and easy way to set up the new Z06 for burnouts. It’s also how you would warm up the tires prior to making a run at the drag strip, and it can also assist in helping to make a rapid exit from corners while on the track. We reached out to Corvette vehicle chief engineer Josh Holder who summed up the differences between the Manual Launch and the regular Launch Control: Launch Control is quick, Manual Launch is smokey – both intended for off-public-road usage of course.”

Engaging the Manual Launch Mode is about one of the simplest procedures to do on the C8Z. Just pull back on both paddles to declutch the vehicle, and then release and pull either the “+” or the “-” paddle while keeping the other depressed. Do that successfully and the Performance Transmission Active light illuminates on the Z06’s dash letting you know the fun is about the start.

2023 Corvette Z06 Steering Wheel with Carbon Fiber Paddle Shifters

Josh tells us that Manual Launch was developed specifically for the Z06 as the LT6 engine revs so quickly due to its low inertia crankshaft, lightweight titanium connecting rods, and low profile piston design that makes it very difficult for most drivers to catch the engine before it hits the rev limiter.

“If the driver releases both paddles at or near the rev limiter, a clutch engagement (double paddle release) can result in an uninspiring launch,” says Holder. “The lack of reserve torque can pull the engine speed down as the engine recovers torque by opening the throttle body, refilling the large intake manifold, and fueling – all of which takes time, resulting in a launch ‘bog’. Manual Launch slows the acceleration of the engine when the transmission is declutched, with more reserve torque available, to allow the driver to better time a clutch engagement (double paddle release).”

So there you have it straight from the source! The entry for the Manual Launch Control can be found on page 203 of the 2023 Corvette Owner’s Manual. Here is that description and make sure you also heed the following warning:

When exiting Double Paddle Declutch, the vehicle may move rapidly. You could lose control and cause a crash with nearby people or objects. Be ready to release the accelerator pedal or apply the brakes immediately if the vehicle moves too quickly. Do not use the Double Paddle Declutch when people or objects are near.

Manual Launch (Z06 model only): While the vehicle is in Double Paddle Declutch, Manual Launch can be activated to gain more precise control over the engine speed to prepare for a Standard or Rapid Exit. To activate this feature, first enter Double Paddle Declutch, then release and repull either the + paddle or − paddle while keeping the opposite paddle held. The Performance Transmission Active Light will illuminate in the gauge cluster to indicate that Manual Launch has been activated. See Performance Transmission Active 0 89. When Manual Launch is active, the engine will respond differently when the accelerator pedal is pressed compared to normal Double Paddle Declutch. The accelerator pedal must be pressed further to increase the engine rpm and a lower engine rpm limit will be applied. This feature also provides faster engine response during a Rapid Exit if any of the Performance Traction Management (PTM) modes or Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Off has been selected. To exit Manual Launch, release both the + paddle and − paddle. The vehicle will also exit Double Paddle Declutch and the engine will reconnect to the wheels. A Standard Exit or Rapid Exit will be performed based on the same conditions listed previously.

Source:
Chevrolet

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