Alpine Alpenglow - 2022

From V8 Thunder to Vapor Trails: Alpine's Alpenglow Redefines Performance.

The Alpine Alpenglow concept, unveiled in 2022, represents Alpine's vision for a sustainable, high-performance automotive future, focusing on hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines. This concept has evolved through the Alpenglow Hy4 and Hy6 iterations, demonstrating Alpine's commitment to this technology.

Alpine, with its history of crafting lightweight, agile sports cars since 1955, aims to blend its heritage with future-forward technology. The Alpenglow signifies a shift towards sustainable innovation, exploring hydrogen as a clean fuel source. The initial Alpenglow featured a Gibson V8 engine designed for dihydrogen fuel cells, producing 880 horsepower.

The Alpenglow Hy4, debuted in May 2024, is a functional prototype with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 340 horsepower. This version served as a "rolling lab," showcasing hydrogen combustion in a racing context and participating in demonstrations at the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Hy4 maintains a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout with a 7-speed transmission.

The Alpenglow Hy6, revealed in October 2024, features Alpine's first 3.5L V6 biturbo hydrogen engine, producing 740 horsepower. This version highlights Alpine's advanced engine development, utilizing Formula 1 methodologies. The Hy6 uses three high-pressure hydrogen tanks, storing 6.3 kg of hydrogen, and is equipped with a 6-speed sequential gearbox. It reaches speeds over 330 km/h.

Design-wise, the Alpenglow series emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency. The initial concept measured 5,210 mm in length, over 2,000 mm in width, and under 1,000 mm in height. The Hy4 and Hy6 retained similar dimensions, with the Hy6 featuring a Specular Blue carbon fiber body. The design incorporates features like a transparent rear wing, redesigned splitters, and a V-shaped front, all aimed at optimizing airflow. The Hy6 showcases its V6 engine through a transparent rear bonnet and features a more aggressive rear wing and spoiler.

The interior design focuses on a driver-centric experience. The initial concept was a single-seater with hydrogen reservoirs flanking the driver. The Hy6 features an elytra-shaped door opening, light-reactive bucket seats, and a cockpit with real-time performance data display. Materials like carbon fiber, aluminum, and Alcantara are used extensively.

The powertrain evolution from the initial V8 to the Hy4's I4 and the Hy6's V6 demonstrates Alpine's progressive development of hydrogen combustion. Collaboration with PHINIA for direct hydrogen injectors is a key technological aspect.

Sustainability is a core focus, with extensive use of carbon fiber, including recycled components. The hydrogen combustion process produces primarily water vapor, reducing harmful emissions. Alpine is also exploring liquid hydrogen for future applications.

Key technological highlights include advanced aerodynamics, distinctive lighting signatures, and a driver-focused interface. The lighting transitions from red to blue, symbolizing clean emissions, and the cockpit is designed for optimal driver engagement.

The Alpenglow series is intended to influence future Alpine production models, with design cues and technological advancements expected to be integrated into upcoming vehicles. This concept also contributes to the broader automotive industry's discussion on sustainable performance, offering a hydrogen-powered alternative to electric vehicles. The Alpine Alpenglow has received significant media coverage, highlighting its importance in the automotive landscape.