The GTM 40TR (Track and Race) was initially going to be made available with a naturally aspirated 2.0L Type R powerplant from Honda rated at 220bhp. In response to feedback, however, the niche automaker has added a turbocharger to the engine, raising output to an even 300bhp. The 40TR is now expected to reach 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and reach speeds in excess of 150 mph.
The GTM 40TR will be available in mid May of this year at a cost of between £14,000 to £16,000. The company will have both track and street legal versions available, and is hoping each will be able to run on some form of biofuel, as well.
The most obvious competitor for the car is the Ariel Atom, another exposed frame racer from the U.K. that uses the same Honda motor without a turbo to make 220bhp. Two supercharged versions of the Atom are also available making 275 and 300bhp, respectively, though at a price significantly higher than the GTM 40TR.
[Source: GTM Cars, ltd.]
PRESS RELEASE:
Increased Turbo Charged Power and new design for Sporty GTM40TR
GTM's new anniversary car - the 40TR (Track and Race) will be boosted with the arrival of a more powerful 300bhp engine and improved exterior design. The niche vehicle manufacturer based in the Midlands is turbo charging the Honda 2 litre Type R powerplant by another 80bhp following public feedback.
Lloyd Taylor, General Manager of GTM Cars Ltd. said: "Potential and existing GTM customers made us aware of the requirements for a more powerful version of the 40TR so we have boosted the Honda engine to over 300bhp, making the ultra light racing car even faster but still superb value for money."
The revised powerplant is expected to reach 60mph in approximately 3.5 seconds and go on to a top speed of well over 150mph.
The 2-seater featuring an exposed aluminium super-structure will also gain a revised front nose cone and rear wing. The 40TR has been designed as a joint venture with another Midlands company, Stadco Engineering, and is expected to cost between £14,000 to £16,000.
The Coventry company has designed and is manufacturing the GTM 40TR for the racing track as well as a road legal version both of which will have the potential to run on biofuel. GTM is exploring the potential for a one-make race series linked to the Energy Efficient Motor-Sports initiative.
First drives will be available by mid May 2007.
PS : cette auto aurait pu être intéressante pour concurrencer l'Atom mais elle fut présentée en mai 2007 alors que la marque était au plus mal financièrement. En décembre 2007, GTM fut racheté par Potenza Sports Cars (également propriétaire de Westfield) et la GTM 40TR fut abandonnée...
