First 2014 Corvette Stingray coupes on the way to dealerships

Chevrolet reports it has begun shipping the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe to dealers starting today.

The new C7 Corvettes are, of course, assembled at General Motors' Bowling Green Assembly -- about 1,000 Stingrays have been built so far for delivery. Most are expected to be delivered to dealers within the next few weeks.

The Bowling Green plant, opened in 1981, underwent a $131-million upgrade to take on the new Corvette, including about $52 million for a new body shop. The car's all-new aluminum frame will be built in-house for the first time. Meanwhile, the Performance Build Center, a production line for Corvette fans to build their own specialty engines, is moving from Michigan to the Bowling Green, Ky., plant and should be open early next year.

Pricing for the new 2014 Corvette starts at $51,995, including destination, for the coupe and $56,995, including destination, for the convertible. Ragtop production will begin by year end.

By Wes Raynal