The KTM X-Bow Dallara: the limited-edition beauty
At Geneva, KTM exhibits the series production X-Bow in its most elite form – the special limited-edition X-Bow Dallara model. KTM will celebrate the start of production in the middle of 2008 by producing just 100 examples of this version. These future collectors’ models have been sold out for more than a year.
The fascinating X-Bow Dallara differs strongly both optically and technically from the production model that follows because it incorporates ‘as standard’ most of the factory-fitted options which will be offered on lesser versions.
For example, the bodywork comes in carbon (rather than plastic), the wheels have a quick release/quick locking mechanism, the racing chassis comes with adjustable suspension and the steering wheel is removable. A mechanical limited slip differential improves traction and stabilises the vehicle during extreme manoeuvres. Cosmetic design, aerodynamic, performance parts and wheel mudguards also feature carbon finish. Special graphics are maintained in this special series, a metal plaque in the interior presents the serial number of the automotive work of art.
The Extras: for the Automobile and the Driver
For those X-Bow enthusiasts who weren’t lucky enough to be among the first 100 ‘Dallara-series’ customers, the standard production model KTM X-Bow is available with the choice of many of the optional extras found on the limited Dallara edition. Aside from the special graphics and Dallara plaque, it is possible to order all other extras from the Dallara series model for the production car.
KTM’s recently-launched ‘Car Configurator’ system allows prospective buyers to view and specify the full range of extra equipment for their vehicle. Accessible through the KTM X-Bow website, at
KTM X-BOW - KTM X-BOW - The first car from KTM, the easy-to-use software gives a clear breakdown of the options available.
While European authorities permit driving the X-Bow without a helmet, KTM strongly recommends wearing a helmet and will present two options – developed exclusively for X-Bow – at the Geneva Show. The Arai closed racing helmet provides comprehensive protection and meets the requirements of the motor sports authorities. An open face helmet, manufactured by German company Schuberth is also offered to give better peripheral vision when driving X-Bow on the road. Both helmets carry X-Bow branding and will be available when the series production models go onto the market. A range of clothing and technical accessories for the driver are also in development.
Production and Aftersales: slim and efficient
Following the hugely positive response to the introduction of X-Bow and growing demand for KTM’s new quad bikes, which have recently been introduced in the USA, KTM has decided that production of X-Bow will not be outsourced, as originally anticipated. Instead, KTM has established a new assembly facility specifically for the production of its four-wheel products, near Graz in Austria.
The manufacture of the KTM X-Bow will create around new 50 jobs, as KTM produces 500 units in 2008, before the production expands to a maximum capacity of 1000 units annually, when the facility is fully operational.
KTM is in the process of finalising its network of specialist service partners to meet the aftersales requirements the X-Bow customers. When all agreements have been finalised, KTM plans to have a Europe-wide network of approximately 50 X-Bow service centres.
Delivery of cars is organised through the company headquarters in Mattighofen. Customers will be given the option of collecting their vehicle at their nearest service centre – or to have their new KTM X-Bow personally delivered to their door.
The Next Step: Visions for Tomorrow
While making the final preparations for the start of series production and the expansion of the service network, KTM is also planning to introduce the X-Bow onto the racing circuit. A racing model for this purpose is in development and the X-Bow will make its first public appearance on the race circuit during 2008. In the longer-term, KTM is considering the organization of a one-make series competition for X-Bow.
There are also further updates planned for the X-Bow itself in the future. A race-engineered version, which will increase power into the region of 300 bhp, is expected at a later date. The car will also be offered with an optional S tronic sequential double clutch semi-automatic gearbox.
The KTM X-Bow: highlights in detail
Carbon Fibre Monocoque: Racing Equipment for the Road
Carbon fibre monocoques have been Formula 1’s safety net for many years. On the road, this technology has always been reserved for the elite supercars in the highest price ranges. KTM is proud to be the first company to offer this chassis technology in a much more affordable form, and has called upon the expertise of its development partners for this project, Dallara, and carbon fibre specialists Wethje Group, to make X-Bow a reality.
The Italian specialist from Varano Melegari, near Parma, Dallara has long been acclaimed as a carbon technology expert from the conception and design through to the production of components made of this light, yet rigid material. Dallara currently supplies the monocoque race-car chassis for international formula such as GP2, Indy Car (IRL) and Formula 3.
KTM has also been able to utilise the expertise of Wethje Group to manufacture the carbon fibre monocoque for the X-Bow. Widely considered as one of the most experienced specialists for carbon composite construction components, Wethje is a successful supplier to premium segment car manufacturers, as well as to Formula 1 and touring car teams.
The monocoque developed for the KTM X-Bow is not only extremely robust, it is also safe, thanks to an integrated crashbox in the nose, and yet it weighs only 75 kilos. This low weight is a crucial factor in ensuring the vehicle’s spectacular performance.
The Engine: TFSI Technology from Audi
To power the X-Bow, KTM was delighted to form a partnership with Audi AG for developing the drive unit. Audi’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder TFSI engine reflects the X-Bow’s construction principles by featuring lightweight, high-performance and intelligent technologies.
The engine’s outstanding attribute is its gasoline direct injection technology, FSI. For its KTM X-Bow application, the engine also boasts an exhaust turbocharger plus an intercooler. Thanks to FSI technology, this engine utilizes fuel more efficiently than one with ordinary intake manifold injection and it even consumes less fuel in the frequently used partial load range.
With FSI technology, the fuel 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, and a continuously variable intake camshaft ensures optimal cylinder charging at any engine speed. Two counter-rotating balancer shafts compensate the second order inertia forces and so guarantee superior, low-vibration operation.
The KTM X-Bow’s long-stroke, four-valves per cylinder Audi engine delivers powerful performance with 310 Nm of torque between 2000 and 5000 rpm, while peak power (177 kW / 240 bhp) is achieved at 5500 rpm. Even more powerful engine variations in the 300-horsepower range are planned for the X-Bow in the future.
The transversely-mounted engine and drive train package is complemented by a VW-sourced six-speed manual transmission as standard. Drive goes to the rear wheels via an optional mechanical limited-slip differential. An optional S-tronic semi-automatic transmission will also be offered at a later date.