Chevrolet marked America’s upcoming 250th anniversary with a high-profile stunt ahead of the Indianapolis 500, using the new Corvette ZR1X hypercar to “blow out” 250 birthday candles at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 23.
The demonstration featured Corvette Senior Controls and Software Engineer Cody Bulkley behind the wheel of the American-assembled Corvette ZR1X, showcasing the vehicle’s performance capabilities as part of Chevrolet’s year-long celebration tied to the nation’s semiquincentennial.
“Resilience, pride, and work ethic of Americans have driven our nation forward for 250 years,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Global Chevrolet. “For nearly 115 years, Chevrolet has been ingrained in America’s story.”
Chevrolet said the Indy 500 activation is part of a broader campaign celebrating American manufacturing and the brand’s heritage. The automaker is also promoting its limited-edition Stars & Steel Collection, which includes vehicles designed to highlight American craftsmanship and patriotic themes.
For fleet operators, particularly small and mid-sized businesses with strong ties to domestic manufacturing and service industries, Chevrolet’s campaign underscores the continued marketing emphasis automakers are placing on American-built vehicles and brand heritage.
The automaker also revived its historic “See the USA in Your Chevrolet” slogan as part of the campaign.
In addition, Chevrolet announced that the 2026 Corvette ZR1X served as the Official Pace Car for the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500. The vehicle featured an Arctic White and Admiral Blue stars-and-stripes-inspired design tied to the Stars & Steel theme.
Chevrolet said it plans to continue celebrating the country’s 250th anniversary throughout the year with additional activations highlighting moments from the brand’s history.
