The X-Bow concept is the first car ever built by KTM, Europe’s second-largest motorcycle maker. The X-Bow’s motorcycle roots are evident in its barebones open construction, which features a carbon-fiber chassis developed by race car builder Dallara. Design house Kiska developed the shape, which is more of an open-wheeled Formula car than a conventional roadster. As such, it does away with many conventional automotive amenities like a sound system and air conditioning.

According to the Austrian cycle maker, the X-Bow allows it to “offer all those who do not have a motorcycle license a driving experience that is typical for the brand.”

KTM teamed up with Audi to develop the 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder engine which produces 220 bhp. A high-output version of 300 bhp is contemplated. The X-Bow is also equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while a Dual Shift Gate (DSG) sequential-shift gearbox that features clutchless operation may be offered later as an option.

Weighing just 1500 lb., the X-Bow is expected to be blindingly fast. The factory estimates 0-60 mph acceleration of less than 4 seconds. This light weight allows KTM to dispense with such features as power steering; the lack of a windshield means no wipers and the elemental nature of the vehicle itself eliminates the need for electronic driving aids.

Designed as a high-performance piece of sporting equipment, the X-Bow has no doors and features seats fitted with 4-point harnesses—the use of these belts and the crash performance of the carbon-fiber chassis mean that airbags aren’t necessary. In keeping with the extreme nature of the X-Bow, KTM has developed suits and helmets to be used by the vehicle’s two occupants. The first cars are expected to go on sale in Europe late this year and a KTM-sponsored race series for the X-Bow is planned for 2008.