The Chevrolet WTCC Ultra concept car debuted in last year’s Paris Motor Show and it was definitely the star of the show.

The compact WTCC Ultra (length/width/height with spoiler: 4,324/1,906/1,569 mm, wheelbase: 2,650 mm) is equipped with a powerful 1,991 cm3 diesel unit generating 139 kW/190 hp. The basic version of the four-cylinder engine is the common rail unit with four-valve technology and variable turbine blade geometry currently powering the Chevrolet Captiva. The increase in performance was achieved by raising the turbo boost pressure.

The WTCC Ultra also has a sophisticated independent wheel suspension on McPherson struts on both axles. The lower wheel control at the front is taken care of by an A-frame arm, while at the back, two additional wishbones and one trailing arm link the wheels precisely to the chassis.

To keep the unladen weight as low as possible, the designers of the WTCC Ultra have made plenty of use of modern lightweight materials. The body parts are finished in “Stealth Blue”, a further development of the familiar Chevrolet blue, and are made of a glass fibre and carbon fibre laminate. The flat underbody of the fully functioning touring concept car, which also graphically divides up the vehicle because of its dark colour, and the front and rear spoilers are made of a plain weave carbon fibre composite. The window frames and the air inlet grilles at the front are finished in semi gloss dark grey. They make an attractive contrast with the glossy silver-painted wheels and the polished aluminium door handles, number plate and centrally positioned tailpipes.

Another aerodynamic feature apart from the flat underbody and the spoilers is a rear diffuser to create additional downforce.

Did you also know that he interior was inspired by the movie Batman Begins? This means that raw dark surfaces were used, and one part of the dashboard was finished in rubberized paint, like Batman’s suit.

The production version Chevrolet WTCC Ultra concept car is said to be released in 2008.

(Source: http://www.worldcarfans.com)