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In the early 1970s, Chevrolet embarked on an ambitious project with the XP-882: to create a production Corvette with an aluminum body. This endeavor was not without its challenges, but the end result was a remarkable prototype that showcased the potential of aluminum construction in the automotive world.
The XP-882 was built on an existing chassis, with the design and build overseen by GM and Reynolds Aluminum, respectively. The goal was to persuade GM to consider aluminum construction for future Corvettes, a departure from the traditional fiberglass bodies that had been the norm. Reynolds Aluminum utilized their cutting-edge 2036-T4 alloy to craft the body of the XP-882, with almost every component, aside from bumpers, tires, and interior parts, being made from aluminum.
To address the differences in material properties between aluminum and steel, Chevrolet and Reynolds collaborated on stress analysis and design modifications. Thicker parts and attaching flanges were incorporated to compensate for aluminum's lower modulus of elasticity, while two-part epoxy was used for added strength and durability. The result was an aluminum Corvette that was not only lightweight but also structurally sound.
The XP-882 featured a transversely mounted 400 cid V8 small block engine paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission, a departure from the traditional front-engine layout of the Corvette. It boasted unique design elements such as "roll-over" headlights and an all-coil spring suspension. The two-part design of the rear deck lids for the engine and luggage compartments added to the prototype's functionality and practicality.
Despite its innovative design and engineering, the XP-882, also known as the XP-895, was ultimately scrapped in 1974. The traditional fiberglass-bodied Corvette was still a strong seller for Chevrolet, making the expensive aluminum prototype unnecessary from a business standpoint.
While the XP-882 may have been consigned to the annals of automotive history, its legacy lives on as a testament to Chevrolet's pioneering spirit and willingness to push the boundaries of automotive design. The forgotten aluminum Corvette prototype may not have seen production, but it remains a reminder of a time when innovation and experimentation knew no bounds.
