Alpine Develops New Platform for Future Sports Cars
The Alpine company, which has recently been actively developing electric models such as the A290 and A390, as well as the upcoming electric A110, is not completely abandoning gasoline engines. The brand has revealed details of its new Alpine Performance Platform, which will form the basis of the next-generation A110 and other future models. Interestingly, the platform is designed to support both electric and conventional internal combustion engines.
Technical Features of the New Platform
The new platform, intended for the A110 coupe and cabriolet, as well as for a 2+2 model that will compete with the Porsche 911, is a key element of the Renault Group’s futuREady strategy. The construction is made of ultra-strong aluminum using bonding and riveting technology, and all suspension components are also aluminum to minimize weight. To achieve an optimal 40:60 weight distribution between the front and rear axles, two separate battery blocks are used.
Alpine is developing the advanced APP platform for the next generation of the electric A110. The platform includes 800-volt charging technology and dual rear motors. The head of Alpine confirms that the platform can also support internal combustion engines.
Power and Control
The powertrain includes dual motors on the rear axle with torque vectoring function, which can adjust power between the wheels every 10 milliseconds to improve handling. The platform also uses an 800-volt electrical architecture for fast charging. The entire system will be managed by the central Alpine Dynamic Model ECU computer, which will coordinate the operation of the motors, battery management, steering, brakes, and even active aerodynamics.
CEO Philippe Krief is confident that the finished electric A110 will “live up to Alpine’s DNA and surpass the best current gasoline sports cars.”
Considering Customer Desires
However, he also recognizes that the majority of Alpine buyers and sports car enthusiasts in general do not want an electric A110. And it seems he is ready to offer them an alternative. Although Alpine’s official strategy makes no mention of a gasoline version of the A110, it is reported that Krief has confirmed such a possibility.
Before you ask, yes, the platform is designed to accommodate an internal combustion engine
Potential Hybrid Powertrain
No further details are provided, but it was previously reported that Alpine could use a hybrid powertrain developed by the Renault and Geely joint venture named Horse. Rumors suggest it will produce 349 hp and 515 Nm of torque, which will be more than sufficient for a relatively light car.
Limitations for the North American Market
Unfortunately for American fans of the brand, the new gasoline version of the A110, its electric sibling, and any other Alpine models will not be available in North America. The question of expansion across the Atlantic was considered for some time, but Alpine suspended these plans last year due to the introduction of tariffs and a slowdown in the growth of the electric vehicle market in the USA. The Renault Group’s futuREady plan, presented this week, also clearly states that Alpine will focus on existing markets, not on attempts to expand into new ones.
The development of a universal platform capable of accommodating different types of powertrains reflects the complex transitional period in the automotive industry. This allows Alpine to respond to different market demands and regulatory requirements in different regions without abandoning its sporting heritage. The focus on existing markets, especially in Europe, may be a consolidation strategy ahead of potential future global initiatives when economic and political conditions become more favorable.