General Motors (GM) has quietly reversed its six-month ownership requirement for the Corvette Z06 and E-Ray, a policy initially designed to curb speculative resale profits. The change, effective immediately for 2025 and 2026 model years, allows first owners to sell their vehicles without losing warranty coverage or future reservation privileges.
Policy Shift Explained
The original six-month retention rule, implemented in 2023, targeted the high-demand Z06 variant as well as the later E-Ray hybrid. Owners who sold within that timeframe faced warranty voidance and were barred from ordering future limited-production Chevy models. The move was intended to discourage “flipping” – buying vehicles solely to resell at inflated prices.
The reversal suggests that demand for the Z06 and E-Ray has stabilized, or that GM has decided the enforcement cost outweighs the benefits. This is not uncommon in industries where scarcity drives speculation; automakers often adjust policies based on market dynamics.
ZR1 and ZR1X Remain Restricted
Despite the easing of restrictions on the Z06 and E-Ray, the upcoming Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X will still be subject to a one-year ownership requirement. Demand for these models remains exceptionally high, with significant markups already exceeding tens of thousands of dollars above MSRP.
This distinction highlights GM’s continued prioritization of controlling resale activity for its highest-performance vehicles. The one-year rule on the ZR1 and ZR1X ensures that genuine enthusiasts, rather than purely profit-driven buyers, are more likely to acquire these models.
Implications for Buyers and Sellers
The policy change is a boon for original owners looking to exit their positions without penalty, as well as for flippers seeking quick profits. However, it does little to address the broader issue of inflated prices for high-demand vehicles. Buyers still face the prospect of paying well above MSRP, while sellers who held onto their cars longer than six months now have greater flexibility.
The EV battery warranty on the ZR1X remains unaffected by the ownership period, offering a degree of stability for buyers of the all-wheel-drive hybrid model.
In essence, GM’s adjustment reflects a pragmatic response to changing market conditions. The company is willing to loosen restrictions where demand is cooling, while maintaining tight control over its most sought-after assets.
