As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, Chevrolet is reviving the patriotic spirit with a brand-new lineup of special-edition vehicles called the Stars & Steel Collection. The move echoes Chevy’s historic “Spirit of America” models from 50 years ago, when the company marked the 1976 bicentennial with bold red, white, and blue styling on classic cars like the Impala, Nova, Vega, and El Camino.
A Modern Take on a Classic American Tribute
While the original bicentennial models leaned heavily on bright patriotic colors, Chevy is going for a cleaner, more modern interpretation this time. The Stars & Steel vehicles will be available in white or black paint, accented with flag-inspired stripe graphics, special “250” anniversary logos, and gloss-black wheels. Instead of loud colors, the design aims for a sleek but still patriotic look.
Five U.S.-assembled models will receive the Stars & Steel treatment:
- Corvette
- Colorado
- Silverado 1500
- Silverado HD
- Silverado EV
Limited Corvette Leads the Celebration
The highlight of the entire collection is the 2026 Corvette Stars & Steel Edition, which will be the only truly limited-run model. Chevrolet plans to build just 250 units, offered across versions ranging from the Stingray to the high-performance ZR1X, and available as both coupes and convertibles. These cars will only come in the 3LT and 3LTZ trims.
Inside and out, the Corvette edition gets unique touches such as:
- Red brake calipers
- Red seat belts
- Red stitching on the floor mats
- A red engine cover on select trims
- A numbered dashboard plaque to mark its exclusivity
Chevy is also creating an ultra-rare, one-of-a-kind Corvette ZR1X, which will be auctioned at Barrett-Jackson in January 2026. All proceeds from that sale will benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting veterans and first responders. See more Photos
Stars & Steel Comes to Chevy Trucks
Alongside the Corvette, several of Chevy’s best-selling trucks are also getting the Stars & Steel treatment.
Colorado Trail Boss
The Colorado Stars & Steel edition will be offered only on the Trail Boss Crew Cab, which is usually a more basic off-road-focused trim. To bring it up to special-edition standards, Chevy is adding several comfort upgrades along with blacked-out badging.
Silverado 1500 & Silverado EV
Both the gasoline-powered Silverado 1500 and the all-electric Silverado EV will combine the Stars & Steel package with the RST Crew Cab trim. They will feature:
- Black interiors
- Blacked-out exterior badging
- Special appearance graphics
The electric Silverado EV gets an extra upgrade: a new heavy-duty Brembo brake package.
Silverado HD
The heavy-duty Silverado HD version will be available on the LTZ Crew Cab Trail Boss diesel. It comes with:
- Black interior
- Blacked-out badging
- Several included option packages
- Maximum trailering equipment
- 5th-wheel prep package
Chevy has not confirmed production plant details, but the company is expected to use only U.S.-assembled trucks for this patriotic series, especially considering some non-EV Silverados are also built in Canada and Mexico.
Official Debut and Release Timeline
Chevrolet will showcase the full Stars & Steel lineup during the Army–Navy football game on December 13. However, customers will need to wait a bit longer to get their hands on one; production is scheduled to begin in spring 2026.
Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but Chevy plans to reveal costs closer to the on-sale date. As part of the celebration, the company will also donate $250 for every Stars & Steel vehicle sold to veteran-focused non-profit organizations.
A Nod to the Past, a Salute to the Future
With America set to celebrate 250 years, Chevrolet is once again leaning into its patriotic roots. The Stars & Steel Collection blends modern styling, exclusive details, and charitable support to honor the country’s milestone anniversary, much like the beloved “Spirit of America” cars did half a century ago.
FAQs
What is the Stars & Steel edition?
The Stars & Steel edition is a special set of vehicles made to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in 2026. These models come with unique paint, graphics, badges, and interior touches.
Which vehicles will get the Stars & Steel package?
Five models will offer the package: a sports car, a midsize truck, a full-size truck, a heavy-duty truck, and an electric pickup.
What makes the Stars & Steel models different?
They have white or black paint, flag-style graphics, “250” logos, gloss-black wheels, and blacked-out badges. Some models also get extra comfort features or performance upgrades.
How many Stars & Steel Corvettes will be made?
Only 250 units will be built, making it the most limited model in the lineup.
Will the Stars & Steel vehicles be limited editions?
Only the sports car will be limited to 250 units. The other trucks will not have strict production limits.
When will the Stars & Steel vehicles be released?
Production begins in spring 2026. More details and exact dates will be shared closer to launch.
Where will these special vehicles be built?
They will be assembled in the United States as part of the anniversary celebration.
Will the Stars & Steel editions cost more?
Yes, these packages will likely cost more because of the special features. Exact pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
Is the Stars & Steel package available on electric trucks?
Yes. The electric truck version will also offer the Stars & Steel package and come with upgraded heavy-duty Brembo brakes.
Is there a charity connection with these vehicles?
Yes. For every Stars & Steel vehicle sold, $250 will be donated to help veteran non-profit organizations.
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