M1 Concourse in Pontiac will open the $30-million X Center, a 22,000-square-foot interactive venue, at the northwest corner of Woodward Avenue and South Boulevard.
Located on the 87-acre motorsports campus in Pontiac, the X Center contributes to more than $200 million invested into M1 Concourse since its launch in 2016.
The 87-acre property features a 28,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art event complex, a 1.5-mile performance track, 255 private garages, and a full schedule of signature events
The three-level X Center will house simulators for racing, golf, and shooting, a flagship restaurant, proprietary electric-powered race cars, e-gaming stations, a meeting space, and unique motorsports-inspired experiences for all ages.
“The ‘X’ stands for experience, and that’s exactly what we’re creating,” says Paul Zlotoff, CEO of M1 Concourse. “The X Center will transform the way people visit us here at M1 Concourse, with more ways than ever to be immersed in motorsports and automotive culture.
“New additions will help to elevate what we’re able to offer the community. Whether you’re here to race, dine. or just explore, this center will be a year-round destination that welcomes everyone.”
Anchoring the development is the KTO Race Track, a 5/8 mile custom-designed outdoor circuit featuring a one-of-a-kind electric race car exclusive to M1. The proprietary vehicles were developed in partnership with Prefix Corp.
The KTOs feature interchangeable battery packs for extended driving time and advanced electronic controls that allow performance to be balanced across weight classes to ensure fair competition for drivers ages 8 to 80.
With front and rear brakes, larger wheels, and a realistic handling experience, the KTO behaves more like a compact race car.
The KTO experience also will include a full pit area, a driver’s lounge ,and classrooms for driver education and instruction, opening the door to both casual fun and serious training.
The lower level of the X Center will serve as the immersive “V-Zone” (virtual zone), equipped with eight high-performance racing simulators and four convertible golf and shooting simulators.
The systems will enable real-time competition, education, and training opportunities. Participants will be able to race against others from around the world on virtual tracks in real time. The V-Zone will host leagues and competitive racing, as well.
The main level will offer two custom-built, premium slot car tracks created by Slot Mods of Chesterfield Township. It will be complemented with a retail experience for racing equipment, slot cars, and other X Center activities, as well as multipurpose space for events, meetings, and other experiences.
The upper level will include administrative offices, a large observation deck, and The Apex Grille, a new restaurant concept from restaurateur Justin Dalenberg. The full-service restaurant will include indoor seating and an outdoor rooftop deck overlooking the illuminated KTO track.
Also included as part of the development are a collection of KTO garages designed to accommodate the KTO vehicle, which will be scaled down versions of M1’s private garages. Each will include an upper level sitting area, bathroom, and kitchenette.
“This is more than just motorsports. It’s about innovation, engagement, and building a place that inspires curiosity and connection with a range of experiences with motorsports at its core,” says Zlotoff. “We want every visitor to feel like they’re part of something special, whether they’re behind the wheel, enjoying a meal, or soaking in the energy of the place.”
The X Center exterior will consist of perforated metal panels and a sculptural ombre feature wall. The design will complement M1’s Event Center, while adding a modern design element to the campus.
The project is being led by Ken Van Tine of INFORM Architecture with construction managed by Pontiac-based Auch Construction, a long-time partner of M1.
Slated to open in Summer 2026, the X Center is expected to create more than 20 jobs. It also will mark the first time M1 Concourse is open to the general public 7 days a week.
For more information, visit m1concourse.com/x-center.
