The R model will have an additional 60 hp (45kw) over the standard model thanks to the adoption of the more powerful 2.0 TFSI from the Audi S3, which features changes to the engine electronics and peripherals to bump output to 300-horsepower.
It will be available in two equipment packages: a road legal / homologated "Sport" package and a more track orientated "Race" pack.
Many of the parts that go into the R will be available through X-BOW's PowerParts, so owners can tune their existing X-BOW to Sport and Race specifications.
Pictured in our gallery is a prototype version of the 2011 X-BOW R with the new parts installed undergoing testing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
More detailed information, including pricing, will be released early next year.
photos
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As a result of its design, the KTM X-Bow can do without a lot of elements that ordinarily add complexity and extra weight. So the narrow wind deflector makes an elaborate heating system and windscreen wipers unnecessary; doors are also not included in the design, due to the X-Bow's low profile and the extra-low side profile. Between the seats of this prototype car is a push-pull gear selector, engineered by KTM, that cleverly converts the conventional H-pattern selector of the Audi-sourced six-speeder into a semi-sequential shifter. As different as cars and motorcycles may be, KTM has managed to transfer its development principles from two wheels to a sports car in every way. In this way the unique driving experience and the spectacular merits of the drive are not just dependent on the performance of the engine.
The Ariel Atom-like two seat roadster is powered by a 2.0 litre four-cylinder producing in base spec a thouroghly respectable 220 horsepower, and in top spec a brutal 300 horsepower. The X-Bow's powerful braking system consists of Brembo 305 mm discs at the front and 262 mm discs at the rear. The clever thing about the X-Bow is the way KTM's partner Dallara has engineered it so that almost all the components bolt directly to the carbon tub, including the rear aluminium subframe that supports the gearbox and suspension. The stylish hallmark of the X-Bow is its light-footed, optical presence evoked by the apparent floating panels of the bodywork, the rangy wheels and the transparent area that allows a perspective of the vehicle technology, which for example makes parts of the suspension and damping visible.
