After years of embarrassing its rivals the World Rally Championship, Citroën Racing is set to tackle the FIA World Touring Car championship (WTTC) next year and the team has the ultimate weapon in the form of Sebastien Loeb.
The nine-times world rally champion, who is competing in a limited number of rallies this year, says he is eager to return to full time racing.
"It's a bit of a dream to think that we are going to write a new chapter in our history. I can't wait to get out on track in the car and start testing," he enthused.
FROM DIRT TO ASPHALT
"I have used this transitional year to try out various experiences and to improve my track driving skills. I don't expect to win straight away, but I am determined to get there one day."
Yet Citroën has not gone into detail about what car will help Loeb get there one day, although the company says it will coincide with the introduction of a new generation of cars.
They've also hinted that the engine will be based around the DS3 WRC's existing 1.6-litre direct injection turbopetrol engine, allowing the team to build upon existing expertise.
Citroën Racing Team Principal Yves Matton confirmed: "Work has already begun in our Versailles technical centre and is set to be stepped up in the coming weeks, with the first tests of our car and the start of our development programme to prepare for the 2014 season."
Rally fans needn't fret as Citroën is not giving up on the rally scene:
"Obviously, we're still committed to rallying and we'll continue to work hard to try and get the best possible result in 2013," said Matton.
"Our partnership with Abu Dhabi is set to be reinforced, enabling us to continue to be involved in WRC with a new system and with new objectives."