HP Tuners Crack C8 Corvette ZR1 ECM, Boost Output to Nearly 1200 Wheel Horsepower

The tuning specialists have found a way to extract massive power gains from the track-focused Corvette models.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Tuning company HP Tuners has successfully cracked the engine control module (ECM) of the high-performance Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1, allowing them to extract nearly 1200 wheel horsepower from the flat-plane V8 engine. This is a significant increase over the factory ratings of 1064 hp and 828 lb-ft of torque.

Why it matters

The ability to tune the ZR1's ECM opens up new possibilities for Corvette enthusiasts seeking even greater performance from their track-focused supercars. However, the process requires specialized knowledge and carries some risks, so owners will need to work with experienced tuning shops to ensure safety and reliability.

The details

HP Tuners was able to crack the Global B E68 ECM used in the ZR1, which is more complex than the E99 ECM found in the standard Corvette models. Their tuning package allows for around a 15% power increase without compromising safety, and up to 25% with the use of race fuel and removal of some thermal and component protections. In testing, they achieved 1180 hp and 1094 lb-ft at the rear wheels, with no issues to the stock gearbox or clutch.

  • HP Tuners first cracked the Corvette Stingray's ECM in 2023.
  • The ZR1-specific ECM tuning package is now available from HP Tuners.

The players

HP Tuners

A tuning company that specializes in modifying the engine control modules of high-performance vehicles, including the Chevrolet Corvette.

Matt Sanford

An engineer at HP Tuners who explained the company's approach to tuning the Corvette ZR1's ECM.

Garrett Mitchell (Cleetus McFarland)

A YouTuber and racer who was the first to receive the HP Tuners ECM upgrade for his Corvette ZR1.

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What they’re saying

“We believe customers can get around 15 percent more power out of the flat-plane engines without compromising safety. If you're willing to push it past what's advisable, a 25 percent gain across most of the powerband isn't out of the question, but that will require a high quality race fuel and the removal of thermal and component protections.”

— Matt Sanford, Engineer, HP Tuners (Facebook)

What’s next

HP Tuners plans to sell the rebuilt ECM package for $1499, but customers will need to ship their ECM to the company for the upgrade. The tuning specialists recommend working with an experienced high-performance shop to properly tune the vehicle.

The takeaway

The ability to tune the Corvette ZR1's advanced ECM opens up new frontiers for power and performance, but it requires specialized knowledge and carries some risks. Owners will need to carefully weigh the potential benefits against the need for expert support and potential component upgrades.