In a cloud of dust, the Citroën DS3 R3 will take the start of the Rallye des Cardabelles next weekend for its very first outing on gravel. Coming off the back of two wins on asphalt, the car will continue its high-speed demonstration run on a new surface while aiming for class victory.
The Rallye des Cardabelles is the fourth round of the French Gravel Championship and a firm favourite with all the crews. The route, which takes in the picturesque countryside around Millau in the south of France, offers crews 160 competitive kilometres of challenging flat-out stages that are a big test for any car. This rally will form a key point in the evolution of the Citroën DS3 R3, which actually started out its development on gravel. In order to accomplish this latest mission, Citroën can rely on the experience of Marc Amourette and his co-driver Gwenola Marie, who currently sit at the top of the two-wheel drive standings in the French Championship. The consistency and reliability of the French crew, who usually drive the C2 S1600 or the C2-R2 MAX, is sure to showcase the new car’s qualities on the demanding gravel in the south of France.
Alexis Avril, the chief engineer in charge of the Citroën DS3 R3 project, said: “We’re entering a new phase in the progression of the DS3 R3 and the whole team cannot wait to demonstrate the car’s potential on this new surface in competitive conditions. The DS3 will be equipped with the gravel kit that will soon be sold by Citroen’s parts department. Our overall goal on this event is to measure ourselves against the established opposition and to confirm all the work we have carried out during the development of the car, where we concentrated in particular on chassis and suspension. The terrain, which is well known for being fast and sometimes rough, will be ideal for highlighting the solidity and strength of the car. On top of all that, we would also like to ensure that the car is reliable and competitive, whatever the surface.”
Those who love rallying and seeing cars get sideways can head to Millau, from 9-10 October, for the 27th Rallye des Cardabelles, where 160 competitors are expected to battle all weekend long.
Redacteur: PB Citroen Racing | Foto's Citroen Racing
