The Citroën C3 WRC makes its asphalt debut

By choosing to carry out the first development sessions on gravel, Citroën Racing engineers had given priority to the majority surface in the World Rally Championship. “By driving straight away in the most difficult conditions, we were able to test the reliability of all the components, explains Laurent Fregosi, the technical director of Citroën Racing. Additionally, there is not just one type of soil. Finland and Mexico are two completely different terrains. We therefore sought to explore this diversity before driving on asphalt, where the operating window is narrower. »

Regulatory, the differences between the dirt and asphalt configurations of a WRC are limited, but they remain nonetheless essential. “The biggest change is the suspensions, continues Laurent Fregosi. We use lighter parts that lower the ground clearance. The train kinematics are also adapted to the size of the 18-inch wheels. The large rims allow us to increase the diameter of the brake discs and we use water-cooled calipers. We should also mention lighter body protection. Aerodynamically, we now have the option of having a lower part of the front shield specific for asphalt. »

“During this first session, we worked in particular on programming the central differential, explains the engineer. This involves distributing power between the front and rear axles depending on different situations. Obviously, the configuration is different from one surface to another. Drivers were also able to evaluate the effect of mechanical adjustments, such as spring rate, anti-roll bars or differential. Overall, the results are positive and we know where we are. The reliability of the car once again allowed us to accumulate as many kilometers as possible. »

“It was exciting to drive the WRC for the first time on asphalt, expresses Kris Meeke. Citroën Racing has always made very good cars on this surface and I have the impression that it will be the same with this one! On the tarmac, we feel even more the changes linked to the new regulations, such as the increased power, the wider tracks, the power of the brakes... We continue with the established program and each run allows us to learn a little more. This phase of the project is still so exciting! »

With now two chassis dedicated to development testing, Citroën Racing will intensify its testing program in the coming weeks. On dirt as well as on asphalt, engineers and drivers are focused on the main objective: the start of the Rally Monte-Carlo, January 16, 2017!