Alpine is weighing the possibility of offering an internal combustion engine (ICE) version of its next-generation A110 sports car, alongside the already planned electric variant.
A final decision is expected later this year.
The French automaker used the Goodwood Festival of Speed to showcase a development mule called the A110 Future, hinting at the upcoming electric model.
However, CEO Philippe Krief told PistonHeads that development will be completed by October, and by then the company will know the cost of developing a petrol version.
If the ICE variant gets the green light, it could enter production in about two years.
The move is partly driven by the US market, where consumer demand for electric vehicles remains tepid.
A petrol-powered A110 would be critical for Alpine's potential launch in the United States.
Challenges and Considerations
Krief noted that taxes on ICE cars in France are "extraordinary."
To mitigate this, Alpine is reportedly considering two pricing strategies: a high price targeting wealthy customers who can absorb the taxes, or a lower price to broaden the customer base, which might require compromises in performance or equipment.
The electric A110 is expected to gain around 661 lbs (300 kg) compared to the outgoing coupe.
Krief said the EV should be capable of "at least 20 minutes of track time at maximum speed," which he claims is comparable to the old gas model when factoring in tire wear and brake cooling.
Alpine also hinted at a high-performance special edition that could borrow cues from the Renault 5 Turbo 3E.
The new Alpine Performance Platform is designed to underpin at least two generations of the A110.
The redesigned A110 will feature two battery packs with a 40:60 weight distribution, 800V technology, and high energy density cells to reduce weight and charging time.
Power comes from a new 3-in-1 rear e-axle with dual electric motors, promising exceptional torque and control.
An aluminum suspension with integrated braking and steering systems is also expected.
At Goodwood, Alpine stated the A110 will outperform the "best of today's combustion sports cars."
The battery pack is split 25% front and 75% rear, housed in a high-pressure die-cast aluminum casing that contributes to structural stiffness.
Active Torque Vectoring 2.0 and a Wheel Slip Torque Control system will help reduce understeer. An intense e-motor-driven sound was heard during its Goodwood run.
