Alpine Unveils Hydrogen-Combustion Supercar for Track Debut at Spa | Future of Sustainable Innovation
Alpine’s radical Alpenglow concept, which was revealed as a static concept at the Paris motor show in 2022, is set to hit the track for the first time next month. The futuristic Alpenglow, designed to showcase Alpine’s “design and sustainable innovation ambitions for ultra-sporty road and track cars,” will make its debut at Spa-Francorchamps ahead of the 6 Hours race on 11 May.
The journey from concept to reality for the Alpenglow demonstrates Alpine’s commitment to developing alternatives to battery-electric technology in order to maintain the emotional and analogue appeal of its sports cars. The brand believes that the hydrogen-fuelled combustion engine featured in the Alpenglow will “enhance driving pleasure tenfold.” However, Alpine insists that this is currently just a path of exploration and not a definite statement of production intent.
While Alpine has not provided specific technical details about the powertrain, the Alpenglow prototype is expected to offer electric assistance. Additionally, it will not only serve as a technical demonstrator but also provide a preview of design cues that will define the next generation of Alpine’s race and road cars. The styling will be a heavily evolved version of the 2022 concept, with some changes to the front end and pixel-style headlight designs that may become a common feature across the Alpine lineup. The car will also feature an aero-optimised intake arrangement and a prominent air intake on the LMP1-style glass canopy to cool the mid-rear-mounted engine.
Alpine previously mentioned that the Alpenglow would weigh approximately the same as its A110 sports coupé, which is around 1000-1200kg. The use of carbon fiber helps offset the added weight of the two 700-bar hydrogen storage tanks. In 2027, the Le Mans 24 Hours organizers plan to introduce a new category for hydrogen-powered racers, including both fuel cell and combustion engines.
Toyota, a supporter of hydrogen-combustion technology for sports and race cars, has already revealed its hydrogen-powered Le Mans contender, the GR H2 Racing Concept. However, Alpine has not yet made a firm commitment to the class.
