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.
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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.
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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.
