KTM returns to 12-Hour with GT2 XBow

KTM Vantage Racing will return to the Repco Bathurst 12 Hour this year with renewed hopes for a strong campaign.

David Crampton and Trent Harrison will be joined by KTM works driver Laura Kraihamer for the February 16-18 event, with the unique car entered in what is shaping to be an incredibly competitive Invitational class this year.

The car will be prepared by GWR Australia this year as the team hopes for a strong weekend.

The 2023 event proved challenging for Crampton's squad, with mechanical issues forcing the car to be withdrawn early in the event - replaced by an Audi R8 for the balance of the weekend.

Support from KTM in Austria and the addition of the experienced Kraihamer to the squad has Crampton enthusiastic about their return.

“Bathurst has always been our Achilles heel in the past, Crampton said. But 2024 will definitely be our year! Our team is better positioned than ever, with fantastic support from KTM in Austria. I think this year’s entry is the highest-quality team we have ever put together for this race.”

Harrison is particularly looking forward to the 2024 edition, the Aussie will be taking on the race for the fifth time with teammate David Crampton.

“I am so excited to be back in Bathurst with my great friend David and our new teammate Laura," he said.

32-year-old Austrian Laura Kraihamer will be utilising her wealth of experience in championships such as the Fanatec GT2 European Series as she makes her Mount Panorama debut.

Powered by a turbocharged, 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine sourced from Audi, the X-Bow GT2 produces 600hp and weighs just over 1000kg. It retains the carbon fibre construction and tub of the existing GT4 car, however adds significant performance and aerodynamics compared to the earlier car.

It will compete in the Invitational class against several unique endurance-racing specials including MARC Cars Australia MARC II and GT cars, and the French-built Vortex.