GT by Citroën

Citroën’s re-invention

Amazing Partnership

Polyphony Digital is the creator of GranTurismo, one of the world’s most sold video games. It gave free hand to PSA’s Citroën brand to conceive a racing car for the next version of the game. As a renowned car manufacturer, Citroën had to go all the way and make the car run for real. Estech was therefore commissioned to turn this virtual project into reality.

The Real Driving Simulator

The Challenge

GranTurismo’s latest version “5 Prologue” was launched only slightly before the real GTbyCitroën, revealed to the public during the Paris Motor Show in October 2008. Citroën’s challenge, and so Estech’s as well, was to fabricate a real vehicle based on a virtual one, via a running prototype. It is designed for a 4-year life span and capable of transmitting driving emotions up to speeds of over 110km/h. Estech also created the computer graphics animation introducing the drive train based around liquid hydrogen.

Realizing the Dream

From 2D to 3D

Citroën transferred the original sketches and first A-class modeling data to Estech, who carried on the CAD development for specific requirements such as computer graphics and prototyping. After thorough analysis, feasibility engineering and finally the fabrication of the prototype followed. Feasibility work included, among others, all body opening and hinge geometries, all brackets and attachments between the various parts of the car, and the design and data for the air intakes and outlets.

Core Expertise

Body Work

Right after the prototype’s feasibility engineering stage, the body molds were designed on screen and fabricated. The surface quality and geometric precision of all parts received special attention to guarantee a perfect fit and finish (glass, body work, rims, lights, trim, IP, column stalks, …).

It’s Alive!

Assembly

Just like a piece of art, the GTbyCitroën’s body panels were adjusted, primed and surfaced to perfection by highly skilled craftsmen. But the GT only became alive by its finely tuned drive train, fully developed electric and electronic systems and entirely functional openings.

God is in the Details

Finishing

Estech, through focused communication, was able to propose solutions to Citroën based on its experience all along the project. As an example, Estech’s own paint mixing service provided the samples for color and texture validation. Except for the seats done at Citroën, the whole interior fully benefitted from the know-how of Estech’s modelers and trim shop specialists, detailing to perfection each and every part. The result is a GT of highest fit and finish.

The Beast is unleashed

Track Day

Seven months after the project’s kick-off, the GTbyCitroën finally left Estech’s facilities. Initial test drives were performed at Citroën own test track at “La Ferté-Vidame” in Western France. The GT was then shipped back to Estech for fine-tuning of its gearbox and hydraulic suspension. The car was then shown to the press, who was allowed to drive it on the “Mas du Clos” circuit in Central France, and on the high speed oval track at “Mortefontaine” near Paris, reaching speeds of over 200km/h.

Inventing the Story

Race Track Design

In parallel to the GTbyCitroën’s fabrication at the Estech prototyping facilities, its animation studios developed the computer graphic’s animation that would eventually present the racing car and it’s power train system to the visitor’s of the 2008 Paris Motor Show. The graphic and sound composition phase (synopsis, story boards, graphic guidelines) was followed by the design of the environment (circuit, illuminations, etc.) and power train elements.

Polygonal Modeling

Detailing

After modeling all the elements of the future animation’s background, the GTbyCitroën got dynamically embedded according to the storyboard, respecting the client approved rhythm, timing and sequencing. Gradually defining and adding details, the animation sequences got completed and edited into a complete movie.

The Second Skin

Rendering & Animating

Post-production work on the project included finalizing the sound track, adding graphic affects, and adjusting images. The resulting animation, very dynamic and with a strong rhythm, is directly inspired by the “Gran Turismo” video game atmosphere. It got displayed on the big screen during the Paris Car Show and later distributed to the press.

On Stage

The Debut

What started initially only as a virtual concept car for a video game became, within nine months, a real racing car on display at the Paris Car Show 2008. Citroën and Estech were able to face the challenge by collaborating closely during the entire project. By utilizing Estech’s know-how, Citroën trusted Estech’s passion and comprehensive development process. Surpassing Citroën’s expectations, Estech proved to be a real guide and support for the whole project.

What’s next?

Today and Tomorrow

The GTbyCitroën will continue to evolve trough the GranTurismo video game. Meanwhile, Jean-Pierre Ploué, PSA group styling director, plays with the idea of selling a few units of the famous racing car. A small-scale production of around twenty cars is perfectly feasible, and would be destined to clients of exceptional cars.

Photo Credit : Laurent Nivalle & Estech