Since it went into production, the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8 has been suffering some major setbacks. As the Bowling Green assembly plant began pushing out Corvettes in January, all seemed to be going well. However, a new report by Corvette Action Center via CarBuzz indicates that the assembly plant has had to shut down yet again.

As you might imagine, GM is still dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic. As a result, the mid-engined sports car is having to put up with one major recurring issue.

What is wrong with the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8?

This 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8 delay story actually began on the first week of February. This was when GM announced it would close down the Bowling Green assembly plant for one week. To put into perspective the effects of such a shutdown, let’s look at how many cars leave the factory on any given day.

According to CarBuzz, Chevrolet produces the mid-engined model with two shifts, each constructing between 92 and 94 vehicles. As a result, the assembly plant has a total weekly output of around 930 to 940 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8 models.

A new report by Corvette Action Center confirms that the plant will remain closed through the week of February 8th as well. Like last time, the main issue surrounds a shortage of available parts. On the bright side, GM told Corvette Action Center that it plans to re-open the plant on Monday, February 15th. However, last week the goal was to open up the plant on February 8th.

How will this affect buyers?

As you might expect, this newest 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8 setback will affect even more buyers than before. If CarBuzz’s production figures are correct, we’re looking at around 1,860 Corvettes delayed across the country. If this shutdown continues, it could cause some serious setbacks for buyers. Given how popular the mid-engined Corvette is, there is virtually no availability across the U.S.

In August 2020, Motor1 reported that the current wait time for a 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 was around 18 months. From there, so many cars were delayed that a sizable portion of those 2020 models got changed to 2021 models. Due to these recurring delays, buyers may have to wait even longer to get their mid-engined sports car. If you haven’t placed an order yet, there is no telling how long you’ll have to wait.

What changes does the 2021 model bring?

As you might expect, the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8 doesn’t get any major changes. For 2021, the mid-engined sports car still has a sub-$60,000 base price. According to GM Authority, there are three trim levels available, the 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT.

Regardless of trim level, you’re getting a naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V8. An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission sends all of the available power to the rear wheels. Additionally, you can have your Corvette as either a coupe or a convertible with a retractable hard-top.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8 loses two exterior colors, Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat, and Blade Silver Metallic. On the plus side, you do get two new color options, Red Mist Metallic Tintcoat and Silver Flare Metallic. On top of that, you can now option a dual racing stripe in four new colors, blue, orange, red, and yellow.

Unfortunately, if these setbacks continue, you’ll likely have to wait quite a while for what is one of GM’s best brand-new vehicles.