RML to run Chevrolets for Muller, Chilton in the WTCC

The team has operated Chevrolet's factory effort for the past eight years, only for the American manufacturer to announce it was pulling out of the championship last year.

RML will now enter as an independent team this season.

Since 2011, the RML factory Chevrolets were beaten just six times in the WTCC. Yvan Muller claimed 17 wins alone, winning both the 2010 and 2011 WTCC crowns along the way.

RML Chief Executive Ray Mallock said continuing with both Muller and the Chevrolet Cruze was no guarantee of success, particularly given the new outfit's relative lack of pre-season testing.

"Our partnership with Chevrolet reached a natural conclusion and whilst we are immensely proud of what we achieved, time moves on and we are treating this as a whole new challenge," Mallock said.

"Competition in the WTCC remains formidable and we do not underestimate the scale of the challenge ahead of us, particularly as we will have very limited pre-season testing."

Muller, who for the first time in his touring car career will not be racing for a works effort, said he is targeting a third WTCC title with RML.

"I'm very fired up for the new season and highly motivated to challenge for the title again," he said.

"I have been with RML for four years and I am very happy to continue our long association.

"I have the highest respect for the team and a lot of faith in their ability to prepare and race a winning car."

Chilton, meanwhile, moves across from Arena Motorsport, with whom he competed in the championship last year.

His best result last year was a seventh place in Morocco.

"2013 is looking very exciting for me," Chilton said.

"Last year was a real learning curve, both in terms of getting used to a new championship and in quickly adapting to new circuits.

"Now I have the experience and my target for this year is to be competitive from the start and to focus on consistent podium-worthy performance.

"I know there is a lot to learn quickly, but I believe I am with one of the best teams to teach me."

Rob Huff, who won last year's WTCC crown for RML, announced at the end of February that he would defend his title in a Munnich Motorsport SEAT Leon.