A Conversation with Aaron Link
Q: Can you walk us through the key innovations that make the Z06 unique?
Aaron: Similar to prior Z06’s, this car starts and ends with a bespoke engine. The LT6 set the tone for this entire program, whereby we made hardware, software, and tuning decisions to highlight and match the engine. For instance, this car has the highest primary spring rates we’ve ever productionized on a Corvette because the immediate, low inertia responses of the chassis were necessary to match the immediate, low inertia responses of this brilliant engine.
Q: Was there a particular feature or aspect of the car that you’re most proud of?
Aaron: I’m most proud of how stable and nimble the car is. Those two things can sometimes be opposing forces in the sports car world. The mid-engine formula yields a light front end of the car and also affords good down vision such that you feel like you’re sitting on the front axle in terms of immediacy of responses to inputs. Coupling that with the very low rear lateral force compliance we’ve tuned into the car and high aerodynamic downforce yields a very engaging and predictable sports car.
Q: How do you maintain the balance between innovation and tradition, especially with such a storied nameplate?
Aaron: Corvette has always been the tip of the spear for General Motors, whereby new technologies are explored and proven. The 8th generation Corvette has boldly departed from the front-engine tradition, but it remains true to the Corvette legacy of delivering cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, striking style, and innovation at an attainable price.
Q: What role did feedback from test drivers or customers play in refining the final product?
Aaron: This plays a critical role for us. Our internal drivers are among the best in the world, and we take great pride in our ability to balance the art and science of properly tuning a vehicle. For Z06, we knew customers would want to highlight the engine in their purchase, so we always had an eye towards making that part shine in our process.
Q: Looking forward, what upcoming trends or technologies are you most excited to explore in future vehicles?
Aaron: Here, I’m most excited about continuing the amazing sales momentum and successes we’ve established with the eighth generation Corvette and having some of those items applied to other General Motors products.
