Not long ago we saw Lamborghini’s Squadra Corse teasing the potential arrival of a speedster reinterpretation of the track only Essenza SCV12. The prototype was roofless, windowless, doorless and did not even feature a windscreen. Now KTM is doing the exact opposite – taking the X-Bow and dressing it up with a fully enclosed carbon fiber bodywork.
You might find the association positively preposterous, but the truth is the Austrians are getting ready to deliver a track-only bomb with a crazy power-to-weight ratio, and an incredible full carbon build at a significantly lower price point.
According to the company, the KTM X-Bow GTX will become available from 230,000 euros, which is about $270k at the current exchange rates. And for the money the renowned motorcycle maker delivers the tried and tested X-Bow carbon fiber monocoque alongside a closed cockpit that includes a full roll cage that’s approved by FIA’s Appendix J for GT racing.
By the way, thanks to the official GTX release, we also know how many X-Bows have been produced since 2008 – they say it's more than 1,300 units. On this occasion, though, the latest version borrows the “Jetfighter Canopy” from the GT4. More so, it has been modified to include a carbon frame with glass doors and windshield, while it also keeps the complete canopy entry/exit feature.
Underneath sits a newly developed “Advanced Criteria” competition seat from Recaro, while other interior features include a new suede racing steering wheel, as well as an electric gear shifter with technology akin to Le Mans prototypes. Additionally, the classic mirrors have been replaced by a high-resolution camera system with two screens, and KTM even hints it aims to approve it for road-legal use.
With a weight of just 1,048 kilograms (2,310 pounds) and an Audi heart of the 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo variety providing 530 hp, the GTX has a power to weight ratio of 1.98 kg / hp. Unfortunately, there are no detailed performance specifications to bring into question just yet.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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