Since its unveiling earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, Citroen's spectacular Survolt electric sportscar concept has been content to wow the crowds at motor shows, but this weekend it will make its on-track debut, with Vanina Ickx, daughter of retired F1 driver Jacky, behind the wheel.

With a tubular chassis and carbon-fibre body work, the Survolt is light, tipping the scales at 1,150kg. Power comes from a pair of electric motors, developing around 300bhp; it boasts a claimed top speed of 162mph, and a 0-62mph time of less than five seconds. A range of 124 miles means that the Survolt could complete most race distances, although pit-stops may take somewhat longer, with a recharge time of two hours via a specific power supply - or ten hours on the normal, 220-volt mains.

Citroen has released a stunning set of photographs to accompany the car's debut, while the car itself will be on track this Saturday, July 10, at 1.30pm, as part of the Le Mans Classic preparations.

Adam Sloman - 7 Jul 2010