15 years after unveiling the unique X-BOW, a roofless sports two-seater designed exclusively for the track, at the Geneva Motor Show, Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM is launching its first car designed for the circuit and legal on the road.
15 years after unveiling the unique X-BOW, a roofless sports two-seater designed exclusively for the track, at the Geneva Motor Show, Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM is launching its first car designed for the circuit and legal on the road.
The X-Bow GT-XR is based on a carbon fiber monocoque and a high-strength steel tubular frame that helps reduce the empty weight of the car to only display 1,130 kg on the scale. the X-Bow GT-XR also features a floor designed to maximize ground effect through vortices generated by the front spoiler and routed all the way to the rear to create an "air seal" under the car. If with such a weight and such worked aerodynamics, this new X-Bow GT-XR could have been satisfied with some 300 horsepower. But KTM opted instead for a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder from Audi which develops 500 horsepower at 6,350 rpm and 581 Nm of torque at 5,550 rpm for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3 .4 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h. The only drive wheels are at the rear, and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential.
For comfort equipment, note an air conditioner, a digital rearview mirror (since there is no rear window), USB-C charging ports and Bluetooth connectivity. Sports seats with safety harnesses remain on the program, as does the canopy that lifts forward to give access to the passenger compartment. The boot has a volume of 160 liters and suitable cases are available as an option.
The KTM X-Bow GT-XR is handcrafted in 100 units in Graz, Austria, for a starting price of 284,900 euros.