Alpine is making strides in the electric supercar arena, but the brand is not ready to abandon hydrogen technology. The French automaker has just introduced the Alpenglow Hy6, the latest version of a concept that has been evolving over the past two years. This iteration is undoubtedly the most powerful, featuring a hydrogen-powered V-6 engine that generates over 700 horsepower.
Since its initial appearance at the Paris Motor Show in 2022, the Alpenglow has undergone notable refinement, yet its overall design has remained consistent. This continuity is a positive aspect, as the supercar stands out as one of the more unique concepts to emerge from Europe recently. It boasts a design reminiscent of a futuristic Le Mans racer, complete with striking lighting, a bubble cockpit, and aggressive aerodynamic features throughout its body. One of the most significant updates in this latest concept is the transparent “bonnet,” which provides an impressive view of the V-6 engine.
Highlighting the powertrain is crucial for Alpine, as it represents the most significant departure from previous iterations of the Alpenglow. The Hy6 is equipped with an all-new twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6, a project that took two years to develop and construct. In contrast, the previous Alpenglow model, which was labeled as a running prototype, utilized a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine.
The mid-mounted engine works in conjunction with a six-speed sequential transmission and is supplied with hydrogen from three tanks, each capable of holding up to 2.1 kg of the gas in its gaseous state. This innovative setup allows the vehicle to operate without producing any harmful emissions. Remarkably, the V-6 engine generates an output of 730 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, with a redline set at 9,000 rpm. This performance marks a substantial increase compared to the Hy4, which only produced around 340 horsepower. With this enhanced power, Alpine asserts that the Hy6 can achieve a top speed of 205 mph.
Earlier this month, Alpine confirmed its commitment to developing a new supercar. Although details remain sparse, it is known that production will take place at the newly established Hypertech Alpine R&D center located south of Paris. Given that this facility is expected to concentrate on electric vehicle technology, many assume that the upcoming supercar will be battery-powered. However, Alpine’s ongoing development of the Alpenglow suggests that a hydrogen-powered vehicle—whether designed for the road or the racetrack—could also be in the pipeline.
Alpine’s dual focus on electric and hydrogen technologies illustrates its dedication to exploring diverse avenues in automotive engineering. The Alpenglow Hy6 represents a significant milestone in this journey, showcasing not only the brand’s engineering prowess but also its innovative spirit. As automotive manufacturers increasingly explore sustainable alternatives to traditional gasoline engines, Alpine’s commitment to hydrogen power is a noteworthy approach that could influence the future of high-performance vehicles.
The evolution of the Alpenglow series reflects Alpine’s strategic vision for the future of automotive performance. By integrating hydrogen fuel technology with cutting-edge design and engineering, the brand is positioning itself at the forefront of the transition towards more sustainable supercars. This ambition is particularly significant in a market that is rapidly moving towards electrification, where manufacturers must balance performance with environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, while Alpine is certainly invested in developing electric vehicles, the introduction of the Alpenglow Hy6 underscores the brand’s belief in the potential of hydrogen power. The combination of a powerful hydrogen-powered V-6 engine and an eye-catching design places the Hy6 in a unique position within the competitive landscape of supercars. As Alpine continues to innovate and refine its offerings, it will be interesting to see how the company balances its commitments to both electric and hydrogen technologies in future projects. The Alpenglow Hy6 serves as a compelling demonstration of what is possible when traditional performance meets the demands of modern sustainability, setting the stage for a new era of high-performance vehicles.
