Prior to the beginning of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, General Motors (GM) will host a public viewing party for the 2009 Corvette ZR1, the company's fastest car to date.

While performance estimates are expected to be announced closer to the ZR1's summer 2008 launch, GM anticipates the Corvette to achieve a top speed of at least 200 miles-per-hour. The vehicle features a LS9 6.2 L small-block engine, carbon-ceramic brake rotors (which are generally found in exotic and higher-priced cars), a six-speed manual transmission and a carbon fiber body. The sports vehicle will be unveiled to the public for the first time Jan. 12 during the automaker's GM Style party – an event that will include musical performances and fashion shows featuring both clothing designs and cars.