ABT Sportline has massaged and fine tuned the X-Bow's standard 2.0-liter TFSI engine gaining a healthy bump in power along the way. Previously laying down 240 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque, the $8,760 ABT package offers 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of rotational fortitude. With this increased spec, the X-BOW manages a 380 horsepower per ton power-to-weight ratio, 3.5 second 0-to-60 MPH blasts and a full factory backed two year warranty.

Jeff Lau, KTM's X-BOW Manager for the UK had this to say of the new package;

"X-BOW's racecar-inspired chassis and sophisticated aerodynamic package have always given owners the ability to go head-to-head with some of the world's most exotic machinery. This power upgrade will ensure that X-BOW owners seeking an even more extreme experience can do so in total confidence, building upon the quality assurance of the expert engineering and exquisite finish for which X-BOW is recognised."

[ktm via carscoop]

Some crazy Scandinavian motorcycle journalists had booked the up-specced, all carbon fiber KTM for a review, but when the car arrived, it started to snow. Rather than be put off by the inclement weather, they suited up in full winter riding gear and took it for a spin. The results are simply epic.

This KTM X-Bow retails for about $130,000 in Sweden, but doesn’t include a heater, even on the options list.

The biggest problem proved to be the lack of a windscreen. Not only was the full-face helmet necessary for warmth, but for keeping the constant spray of road-salt and slush thrown up by the snow plow-like front splitter out of the driver’s eyes. The test driver reported “limited visibility” as his greatest issue.

We’ll let them tell you the rest:

The car is actually doing fine on the snow. It runs on winter tires, but no studs. Compared to an old Porsche 911 with a similiar set-up (rear engine, rear wheel drive and no weight on the front wheels) it's a beauty for winter driving.

The steering is "ultraquick" and there's no ABS, ESP or any other three letter electronic devices. The same goes for power steering and servo-assisted braking. Feedback from the steering wheel is excellent. Steering, gearing and braking is direct, precise and "distinct" - although it's hard to tell how powerful the brakes are.

[via MC24]

The KTM X-Bow is just beginning to reach customers in Europe and, predictably, one of the first has already gone and crashed it. According to The Sun, the driver “skidded on two wheels” before mounting a crash barrier at the Nurburgring. Well, if you’re going to total your $70,000, 237 HP Austrian trackday special, we can think of worse places to do it. We predict more insanity when the X-Bow reaches US shores “some time in 2010.” [The Sun via Autoblog]

Just a few months after the official unveiling of the KTM X-Bow (read: cross-bow), the Austria-based motorcycle-manufacturer has more than 1000 confirmed orders for the vehicle. This is far more than ever expected.

The X-Bow can be ordered by telephone, internet or at one of over 700 KTM-dealers across Europe. Production starts in early 2008, and the first "cars" with deliveries beginning in the spring.

KTM plans to build around 1000 units in 2008 and up to 5000 X-Bows in each of the following years. The first 100 vehicles, which are long sold, will be specially equipped and will wear a number-badge to indicate they are one of the first 100 and part of a limited series.

While there are currently only a handful of photos so far - all showing the car r in standstill, here's proof KTM is dead serious about delivering their customers a refined product: Our shooters caught the car at speed undergoing handling tests on the Nürburgring earlier today.

The basic version will be powered by Audi's two-liter four-cylinder engine with FSI direct injection and turbo, delivering 220 bhp. Insiders state this will accelerate the car from 0 to 100 km/h in less than four seconds.

Down the line, an even more powerful version could make use of the Audi S3's engine and have an output of up to 300 bhp.

If you were wondering what KTM's new X-Bow (crossbow) roadster looks like on the track, check out this clip from a recent profile on German TV. While the driver is a sad facsimile of the black Stig, the X-Bow nonetheless looks like its just begging for an airstrip and a Northern European guy named Getthef k Outtadawei manning the stopwatch. – Mike Spinelli

Related:
Geneva Showcase: The KTM X-Bow [internal]

Hey, kids, it's the KTM X-Bow. Let's go say hi. Sure, the little roadster is just as we pictured it. Compact, busy, and with just enough amusement-park frivolousness to make us wish we were either eight years old or luxuriating in an fortune derived from someone else's sweat. (Both wouldn't be bad.) KTM says it's building a pilot run of 100 by the end of 2007, before deciding on a series run. That's mainly a function of whether motorsports engineering firm Dallara can build them fast enough. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

KTM X-BOW

KTM's first automobile
Racing technology for the road
Light and safe carbon fibre monocoque
Spectacular design
Four-cylinder TFSI from Audi
Puristic, unfiltered driving experience
Supersport performance
Outstanding power-output values
Production of a 100-unit pilot series begins at the end of 2007
A decision about producing a small series will be made until April 2007

Premiere at the Geneva Motor Show

An aggressive design and sporty potential: the X-Bow is not merely a milestone in the KTM brand's more than 50-year history, it's also a new citation in the small, but elite segment of radical, lightweight sports cars. This exceptional position is the result of the concept: for their first car, KTM employs the finest materials, high-tech and the know-how of respected development partners such as Audi and Dallara. The result is a street-homologated sports car with racing technology, like an avantgarde, carbon fibre monocoque. Thanks to the basic version's light weight and the 162 kW (220 hp) Audi TFSI engine, the performance values of the KTM X-Bow outstrip those of super- sport cars with more than twice the power: with a deadweight of approx. 700 kilos, the KTM X-Bow accelerates to 100 kph in just 3.9 seconds. But the X-Bow isn't just a racing machine, even if it is going to accomplish spectacular performance feats on racing circuits. With its modern technologies and exceptional solutions, it's much more oriented towards sporty drivers who seek a purist's driving experience. By foregoing electronic assistants and today's standard comfort features, the X-Bow offers an unfiltered adventure - aided by its standalone wheels in the style of monoposto racing cars, transparent technology and the car's reduced concept, i.e. no roof, doors or windscreen. The sports car has only a 70- millimeter, transparent wind deflector. With all these unique features, driving the KTM X-Bow becomes an experience with an immediacy that otherwise can only be felt when riding a motorcycle.

The Next Step into the Future

For the Upper Austrian motorcycle manufacturer - Europe's second largest - the decision to expand its line of business into the automobile market was of great strategic significance. It was made possible by the company's extraordinarily dynamic growth over the past 15 years. Since 1992, KTM vehicle sales have risen an average of 21% each year, while the volume of sales even climbed to 25% each year. Today, KTM is the world's leading brand in the offroad segment and in recent years has successively expanded its model portfolio into the street sector. "Moving into the automotive sector is the logical continuation of this strategy. With the X-Bow, KTM can now offer the classic KTM driving experience to all those who don't have a motorcycle licence," says Stefan Pierer, CEO of the listed KTM Power Sports AG, explaining this investment in the company's future.

Carbon Fibre Monocoque: Racing Know-How from Dallara

Carbon fibre monocoques have been the Formula 1's safety net for years. On the road, this technology was formerly reserved for the elitist, supersports cars in the highest price classes. KTM would now like to be the first to offer this solution in a much more affordable environment. KTM has thereby been able to call upon the expertise of its development partner, Dallara. These specialists from Varano (near Parma) in Northern Italy have long been acclaimed as carbon technology experts, from the conception to the production of components made of this light, yet rigid material. The monocoque developed for the KTM X-Bow is not only extremely robust it is also safe, thanks to an integrated crashbox. And yet it weighs only about 70 kilos and is therefore a crucial factor in the vehicle's spectacular performance.

The Engine: TFSI Technology from Audi

KTM was able to gain Audi AG as its partner in developing the drive unit. The four- cylinder TFSI engine represents the X-Bow's construction principles in an ingenious way: by featuring lightweight, high-performance and intelligent technologies. The engine's outstanding attribute is its gasoline direct injection technology, FSI. In this case, it's combined with an exhaust turbocharger plus an intercooler. Thanks to FSI, the engine can utilize fuel better than one with ordinary intake manifold injection and it even gets by on less fuel in the frequently used partial load range. The injection takes place at a pressure level between 30 and 110 bar, valves in the intake system direct the inflowing air into a cylindrical movement. A continuously variable intake camshaft ensures optimal cylinder charging at any speed. Two balancer shafts compensate the second order inertia forces and so guarantee superior, low-vibration operation. The KTM X-Bow's long-stroking, four-valve engine delivers a powerful performance: 300 newton-metres of torque peaks at a level between 2200 and 4000 rpm. The peak performance of 162 kW (220 hp) is achieved at 5900 rpm. Even more powerful engine variations in the 300-horsepower range are planned at a later date. The drive unit package is complemented by a manual 6-gear transmission, which is also made by VW and can be equipped with a limited-slip differential if so desired. An optional S tronic transmission will also be offered. The drive comes from the rear wheels.

The Chassis: Direct and Competent

The X-Bow's driving dynamics profit not only from the car's low centre of gravity but also from its superior chassis, which also draws on racing technology for its basic principles. Suspended on double triangular wishbone axles, the wheels feature suspension and damping elements by WP Suspension, with a pushrod arrangement up front. The Italian brake manufacturer Brembo can also be proud of its reputation for excellence. KTM is also expanding this partnership (which began in the motorcycle sector) into the automobile realm. The X-Bow's powerful braking system consists of 305 mm discs at the front and 262 mm discs at the rear. The interaction of the vehicle's light weight, ideal balance, low centre of gravity and a 17-/18-inch tyre mix results in spectacular braking performance: when the brakes are warm, the KTM X- Bow needs only 33.1 metres to decelerate from 100 kph to a standstill.

The Aerodynamics: Exceptional Contact Pressure

The primary development goal for the KTM X-Bow was not attaining extreme final velocities, but in optimising the driving dynamics. The sports car is thereby aided by an ingenious aerodynamics arrangement, the result of many hours in Dallara's wind tunnel. The most vital element in this area is the underbody, which is equipped with a prominent diffusor at the rear. To make this diffusor work even more effectively, the linking points for the rear suspension were set as high as possible. This enables the KTM X-Bow to achieve a phenomenal downforce of about 200 kilograms at a speed of 200 km/h - about three times more than most other supersport cars. In combination with the high-performance chassis, this fantastic downforce makes extreme curve speeds possible. The transversal acceleration of 1.23 g that can thus be attained noticeably surpasses the usual values achieved by street homologated sports cars. The aerodynamic concept was a great challenge for the designer as well. It meant that sufficient air had to be channelled into the inlets located in the sides, behind the passengers. The radiator is also located at the rear of the vehicle, to avoid having to install longer, heavier cooling hoses. This mission was accomplished by using special air baffles, which are installed horizontally on the sides of the car so the passengers can also use them as boarding aids.

Safety: Racing Technology

The crucial component protecting the driver and the passenger is the solid, carbon fibre monocoque - safety technology straight from Formula 1. This structure is supplemented by a crashbox in the nose of the vehicle. The silencer, which is built into the rear of the car, was also designed to act as a crashbox; it absorbs the force of an impact to the rear of the vehicle. The driver and passenger are also protected by four-point safety belts, which were inspired by the racing world. If so desired, this unit can be equipped with a fifth securing point. The two roll bars are clearly visible. They not othey are skilfully integrated into the monocoque's structure.

Extras: for the Automobile and the Driver Supplementary equipment - like kits to increase the engine's performance or an aerodynamics package - give the sporty potential of the KTM X-Bow an even greater boost. Another segment of the accessories programme aims in the opposite direction: together with Dainese, the renowned Italian specialist for motorcycle apparel, a new line of clothing and helmets is being developed especially for the KTM X-Bow. These intelligent components are designed to assume functions that are normally performed by the car: weather protection, climate control and - thanks to integrated technology - even infotainment functions such as sound and mobile telephony.

The Next Steps: Premiere in Geneva, Building a Pilot Series of 100 Units

A prototype of the KTM X-Bow will make its first public appearance at the Geneva Motor Show. This prototype is also the basis for a pilot series of 100 units, which will be produced in Dallara's factory beginning at the end of 2007. The limited series is a result of the Italian company's manufacturing capacity: four to five vehicles can be built per week, with a large share of the work being done by hand. Due to the special status of this pilot series, KTM has decided to equip all the vehicles of this initial production with a number of first-rate accoutrements, which will later be offered as extras. Included in the standard equipment for the first series are the limited-slip differential, lightweight metal rims with a central nut mounting, and a Formula One racing steering wheel that can be removed via a quick-release mechanism to simplify getting in and out of the car. The four body panels - lacquered orange on the prototypes - are made of carbon fibre in the pilot series (later they'll be made of synthetic material), and the chassis's damping elements are adjustable. And of course other individual equipment requests can also be fulfilled. Because of the greater extent of the equipment range, the projected basic price of 40,000 Euros (incl. VAT) is naturally higher for an exemplar of this pilot series. A definitive price will be announced after the Geneva Motor Show. After the publication of the first drawings, the interest in the pilot series prototypes was overwhelming. Every spot on the list of prospective buyers was already filled in January, while the waiting list has got considerably longer.

The KTM X-Bow will be street homologated in accordance with European small series homologation regulations. But since the respective guidelines are defined differently throughout the EU, KTM currently anticipates standardising the X-Bow in the following countries: Germany, Finland, Greece, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal and Switzerland.

The Vision: Producing a Small Series Beginning in 2008

Depending upon the reactions to the vehicle presentation in Geneva, KTM is considering extending the pilot series of the X-Bow into small-series production. This small-series production would take place in Austria beginning in 2008 and entail an annual production of between 500 and 1000 vehicles. Parallel to this small-series production, an efficient distribution structure would also be established. The plan includes a network of around 15 to 20 partners throughout Europe, who not only have experience in motorsports, but also a connection to the Volkswagen enterprise. A decision will be made concerning the small-series production of the KTM X-Bow by the end of April 2007.

Related:
More on the KTM X-Bow: Real Photos, Track Testing 101 [internal]

The KTM wizards dropped a few more photos of the X-Bow track-day roadster ahead of its unveiling in Geneva next month. They're the first real photos we've seen of the Austrian, Audi-powered two seater. We still can't confirm if that's the old Stig behind the wheel. [Thanks to Bernard for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

Specs:

Engine
Inline-4-cylinder-engine with direct fuel injection system (FSI), turbo-charger and intercooler

Displacement
cm3: 1984

Max. Power
kW (HP) 162 (220)
@ U/min 5900

Max. Torque
Nm (ft-lbs) 300 (221)
@ U/min 2200-4000

Valves
4 pro Zylinder, DOHC

Bore & stroke
mm 82,5 x 92,8

Emission standard
Euro 4

Transmission
Rear-wheel-drive with mechanical slip differential
Gearbox
6-speed-manual

Kerb weight
kg (lbs) 700 (1,543)

Weight distribution front/rear
37/63

Overall length/width/height
mm 3670 x 1870 x 1160
Wheelbase
mm 2430
Center of gravity
mm 400
Track front/rear
mm 1644/1624
Turning circle
m 10,8
Fuel tank capacity
l (gal) 35 (9.2)

Brake system
Front.: 4-piston-caliper
Rear.: 2-piston-caliper

Brake-disk diameter
Front/rear
mm 305/262

Wheels/tyres
Front: 205/40 R17
Rear: 235/40 R18

Acceleration
0-100 kph (62 mph): 3.91 seconds
Top speed kph (mph): 217 (135)

Braking distance 100-0 kph (warm)
m (f) 33,1 (109)

Aerodynamic downforce
kg at 100 kph 48
at 200 kph 193

Related:
More on the KTM X-Bow [internal]

KTM's released a new set of X-Bow concept shots ahead of its unveiling next month at the Geneva show. It's not exactly the concept we'll see; the subject is really a 1:25 scale aerodynamics tester. Nonetheless, the details remain the same: 1,500 pounds, VW/Audi 2.0 TFSI engine producing around 200 hp and around $50,000. Ariel may have a real competitor here. [Thanks to Bernard for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

Related:
KTM Reveals X-Bow [internal]

Evo stopped by KTM's lair in Austria and got a look at three prototypes of the company's X-Bow track-day ride. Of the three, one's for crash testing, the other for chassis tuning and the third is for show; that's the one shipping off to Geneva in late February. The first production models should hit in mid-2007, and a single-make racing series is in the works for next year. Want more? The Audi-powered roadsters will come with six-speed manual, but the DSG automanual will be optional, addding 44 lbs to the X-Bow's 1,543-pound bulk. That brings up KTM's former four-ringed partner. Evo says Audi backed out of the joint venture because adding passenger-car safety equipment like airbags was a dealbreaker. That's the spirit! – Mike Spinelli

KTM X-Bow update [Evo]

Related:
KTM Reveals X-Bow [internal]

Look in your rearview Ariel Atom, KTM's nearly done with its pure-sports concept, which the Austrian motorcycle concern will show off in Geneva next March. It's called the the X-Bow, and it'll be powered by an Audi-sourced engine of some displacement and weigh slightly over 1,500 pounds. Price is expected to be in the $50,000 range. Rumor has it the car will be built by Italian motorsports firm, Dallara, which builds the Audi R10 racer's monocoques. We'll get the whole debut spiel as the Geneva show gets closer. – Mike Spinelli

[via Motorionline]

Related:
Let's Go Austrian: More News on the KTM Car [internal]