( Worldcarfans ) - The Corvette Z06 'Ron Fellows edition' has been introduced to mark the contribution of the Canadian racer to the success of the Corvette racing program and is available in strictly limited numbers in the UK. Just 399 are planned for production, with 33 destined for Europe. The highly exclusive model is distinguished with Ron Fellows' autograph, the first signature to appear on a Corvette in the brand's 54-year history, plus unique Arctic White paint accented with a racing-style fender stripe, a full-width racing-type rear spoiler and polished 10-spoke aluminium wheels. Just six of the Corvette Z06 'Ron Fellows edition' will be available in the UK, priced at ?69,185.
The 'Ron Fellows edition' is based on the Corvette Z06, which boasts the LS7 V8 engine, generating 512 hp (377kW) at 6300 rpm, and is matched to a rear-mounted six-speed transaxle to provide optimum weight distribution. In first gear, the Z06 delivers a 0- 62 mph performance of 3.9 seconds and it has a top speed of 199 mph.
The exclusive edition is distinguished by unique interior and exterior appointments. The model is only available in Arctic White. The front fender graphics are reminiscent of the identifying detail of the Corvette GT1 race car, which feature double Monterey Red Metallic stripes with Machine Silver borders and Ron Fellows' autograph in a contrasting Victory Red shade. In recognition of Fellows' Canadian heritage, a red maple leaf logo motif is incorporated with the graphics. Other exterior cues include a unique windscreen header band.
Special interior equipment includes red seats, console, door trims and instrument panel. The red leather armrest, featuring the Corvette crossed flags logo, is signed and numbered inside by hand. A final refinement is a carbon-fibre "tech" pattern interior trim plate.
Fellows is regarded as a key component in the team's 51 victories since its creation in 1999. He scored Corvette Racing's first win in 2000 and went on to become a three-time American Le Mans Series GT1 champion, a 24 Hours of Le Mans class winner and an overall winner in the Rolex 24 at Daytona with Corvette Racing. In 2005 and 2006, his efforts supported team-mates Oliver Gavin and Olivier Beretta on their way to successive ALMS titles.
"Ron Fellows is part of Corvette's racing heritage and he has been instrumental in the remarkable success of the Corvette Racing team in the American Le Mans Series," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "The special signature-series Z06 model that bears his name will forever link him to one of the greatest eras in factory racing, which has produced six consecutive ALMS GT1 manufacturers' championships, and counting."