Back in January we told you that Polaris was building a reverse trike, and sketchy photos form the patent application had surfaced. Well, it looks like the wait is finally over, as Polaris announced the Slingshot will be revealed on July 27. At the same time, we might expect a growing number of video teasers to be published until the day the wraps come off.
What started as a potential project for an unspecified future turns out to become a real on-road treat from Polaris, and it will add even more competition to the existing similar beasts, such as the Ariel Atom, KTM X-Bow, the T-Rex and why not, Can-Am Spyders. No cleared photos of the Polaris Slingshot have been released, so we’re still in the “it looks like” realm. Apparently the Slingshot has no doors and no top, but comes with a fairly decent windscreen.
The video lets us know that the Polaris Slingshot will be offered with a manual transmission, at least in the initial version, even though it’s safe to assume that future options will include a semi-automatic “paddle” shifter or a full CVT trim.
Slingshot comes with a side-by-side architecture and what appears to be a very informative dash layout, which is always a great asset. The initial rumors had it powered by a 2.4-liter EcoTec GM engine, which could produce around 180 horsepower and a massive 233 Nm (just under 172 lb-ft) of torque, but there is no conformation neither a denial for this. Either way, we can rest assured that Polaris is smart enough to know that such a vehicle needs to be quite mind-blowing if it wants to stand a chance against the competition. There's also no info on whether the Slingshot will have FWD or RWD, but judging by the driver's gloves, another detail is revealed: Polaris will also offer a dedicated apparel line.
No price is yet rumored, but it will definitely not be a cheap toy, as neither the Atom, X-Bow or the T-Rex are. More info soon so watch this space.
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