KTM E3W plastic three-wheeler concept unveiled

The strict two-seater was created by KTM PowerSports in conjunction with the Austrian Institute of Technology and was designed by studio Kisha. It was recently shown to the Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology, and the Federal Minister, Doris Bures.

KTM says the E3W was designed to be an environmentally friendly means of transportation that's also nifty in small city streets and high congestion areas. The E3W is a futuristic concept that's designed to be practical, showcasing Lamborghini-style scissor doors for easy access in tight car parks.

It showcases innovative characteristics such as a plastic construction which has helped keep the E3W's overall weight to just 500kg. Powered by a 15kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, the E3W has a full-charge range of around 100km before it's time for a recharge.

Although the KTM E3W is simply a concept at this stage, the Austrian company is planning to set up an alliance to build more examples of the E3W, and hopes to put it on the market sometime in 2013.

Reports say KTM is looking to build up to 50,000 of the electric three-wheelers per year, with prices rumoured to be around the $7000-$11,000 mark.