Autosportfoto

WTCR-bound Peugeot 308TCR unleashed

Peugeot Sport has unleashed the 308TCR - on sale from today and earmarked for the all-new FIA World Touring Car Cup (WTCR).

A significant evolution of the 308 Racing Cup and derived from the road-going 308 GTi by Peugeot Sport, the French make has targeted "absolute performance" for its customer teams.

Engine: induction, exhaust and turbocharging overhauled allowing the 4-cylinder block to develop 350hp and 420Nm of torque from 3000rpm. Engine designed to cover 5000 kilometres - nearly the double the amount needed for an entire WTCR season.

Transmission: strengthened and specifically-designed 6-speed sequential gearbox controlled by steering wheel-mounted paddles.

Handling: significant widening of the track and a specific suspension layout, as well as adjustable anti-roll bars at the front and rear, not to mention ball-joint suspension all-round, the Peugeot 308TCR benefits from strong turn-in and a perfectly compliant rear.

Chassis set-up: numerous set-up options (ride height, track, and camber - both front and rear) allow chassis set-up to be adjusted for all circuits to suit every driver.

Aerodynamics: working with designers from the Centre de Style Peugeot and using CFD (computational fluid dynamics), the front bodywork allows a perfect flow of air towards the radiator and intercooler, while the splitter generates maximum possible downforce for directional stability. Large rear diffuser produces more downforce.

Braking: new pedal box completes a high-quality braking system.

Wheels and tyres: car aesthetics are completed by 18-inch wheel rims, equipped with tyres (27-65/18).

"The Peugeot 308 Racing Cup was already eligible for the TCR, but the rapid development of championships based on TCR regulations inspired us to go further in looking for performance to accompany the ambitions of our customers, all the way up to the very top level - which from 2018 will be represented by the FIA World Touring Car Cup," said Peugeot Sport Director Bruno Famin. "So, the arrival of the new Peugeot 308TCR comes at just the right time, illustrating the deep engagement that Peugeot Sport enjoys with its customers. In order to meet their justified demands, we've used our experience and expertise to come up with a car that is competitive, reliable and always increasingly enjoyable to drive."

Fully assembled cars will be delivered to customers from April and will cost €109,000 (excluding tax) with a number of options available. Peugeot Sport estimates the 308TCR's running costs will be €4.50 per kilometre excluding taxes and consumables.

The 308TCR will be displayed on the Peugeot stand during the Geneva International Motor Show in Switzerland from 8-18 March. Click here to watch the 308TCR on track.

Zdroj: fiawtcc.com