Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders

High demand causes a supplier issue that forces GM to drop carbon fiber options for 2020 model year.

By Brett Foote - March 5, 2020
Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders
Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders
Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders
Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders
Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders
Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders
Chevy Removes Carbon Fiber Package from 2020 C8 Orders

Another Problem

We had a pretty good idea from the start that the all-new 2020 C8 Corvette was going to be a hit. But even GM didn't realize just how big of a hit it was going to be. Now, with the initial run of cars just about gone, the automaker is also facing a new problem. As first reported by Corvette Blogger, they won't be able to offer the Carbon Fiber Package for 2020 model year Corvettes, either.

Photos: Chevrolet

Too Popular

Originally, C8 buyers had three ground effects kits available for purchase. RPO Code 5V8, finished in Carbon Flash for $3,850, and RPO 5VJ, in body color for $695, were both listed as late availability from the start. The third, RPO Code 5VM, added a genuine carbon fiber kit consisting of a front splitter and extended side sills for $4,850. Unfortunately, the latter turned out to be a bit too popular.

Photos: Chevrolet

High Demand

So many customers ordered the carbon fiber kit, in fact, that GM's supplier couldn't keep up. That forced the automaker to strip the option from most all orders, and notify customers who had requested the option that they were out of luck. A copy of the dealer bulletin notifying them of the problem was posted right here at Corvette Forum.

Photos: Chevrolet

Bad News

That bulletin read "Due to an inadequate supply of parts, it was necessary to remove the Visible Carbon Fiber Ground Effects (5VM) option from your order(s). At this point in time, we anticipate this accessory will remain restricted from LPO ordering for the remainder of the 2020MY. Further Dealer and customer communications will be forthcoming once this supply issue has been resolved."

Photos: Chevrolet

Some Good News

Of course, a handful of kits were produced, so there are a few lucky customers that will still receive their order as placed. Others will be able to purchase the carbon fiber kit later on when it becomes available, as it's a dealer-installed option anyway. Which is a bit of good news.

Photos: Chevrolet

Aftermarket Alternative

Regardless, those who don't want to wait will likely have a bevy of aftermarket options at their disposal as well, probably shortly after customers start taking delivery of their cars. Though those parts won't come with the 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty a genuine kit carries with it.

Photos: Chevrolet

Belle of the Ball

So while this is disappointing for those who wanted a carbon fiber kit on their new C8, it isn't the end of the world. As we've seen in the past, being popular always carries its own special set of problems. And there's no doubt that the new Corvette is the belle of the automotive ball right now.

Photos: Chevrolet

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 C8's running out of carbon fiber right here in the 6SpeedOnline Forum!

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