Citroen has unveiled the C-Elysee WTCC, which is going to take place in 2014 World Touring Car Championship. The race car will be the very first vehicle to be designed in accordance with the new regulations, currently being prepared by the FIA for the category next year.

"Choosing C-Elysee as the basis for our WTCC car reflects very clearly our determination to use racing as an active means of supporting our commercial development. With rounds in Latin America, Morocco, China and Russia, the WTCC race calendar is genuinely global, and it will be a real advantage to run a C-Elysee, a key driver of our growth, in front of large crowds of enthusiastic motorsport fans.", commented Frédéric Banzet, CEO of the Citroën Brand.

The exterior boasts an integrated aerodynamic splitter, modified front bumper, widened front and rear wings as well as stylish rear wing. There is also a set of 18" super-light alloy wheels fitted with performance racing tires.

The power is coming from a 1.6 liter turbocharged engine with 380HP (279 kW) at 6,000RPM and 400Nm (296 lb-ft) at 4,500 RPM of torque. The curb weight is just 1,100 kg (including the driver).

After making its first track outing a few days ago, Citroen C-Elysee WTCC has now begun a programme of development tests. The car will make its first public appearance at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (12-22 September).

Citroen C-Elysee WTCC (2013) - picture 1 of 2
Citroen C-Elysee WTCC (2013) - picture 2 of 2

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - C-Elysée WTCC

CHASSIS
Structure Reinforced body with welded, multi-point roll cage
Bodywork Steel and composite fibre
ENGINE
Type Citroën Racing - 1.6-litre turbocharged direct injection engine
Bore x stroke 82x75.5mm
Capacity 1,598cc
Maximum power 380bhp at 6,000rpm
Maximum torque 400Nm at 4,500rpm
Specific output 237.8bhp/litre
Distribution Double overhead camshaft 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel feed Direct injection controlled by Magneti Marelli unit
CLUTCH
Type Carbon-fibre twin-disk
TRANSMISSION
Type Front-wheel drive
Gearbox Sadev six-speed sequential – Manual control
Differentials Mechanical self-locking differential
BRAKES
Front 380mm ventilated discs with four-piston callipers
Rear 300mm ventilated discs, with two-piston callipers
Distribution Adjustable from cockpit
SUSPENSION
Type MacPherson (front and rear)
Shock absorbers Adjustable
STEERING
Type Hydraulic power-assisted steering
WHEELS
Dimensions 10x18-inch wheels – Yokohama tyres (Ø 660 x 275)
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES
Length/width 4,577mm/1,950mm
Wheel base 2,700mm
Track 1,750mm (front and rear)
Fuel tank 50 litres
Weight 1,100kg with driver (regulations)

Source: Citroen