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Alpine's hydrogen-powered supercar, with a 6 horsepower twin-turbo V740 engine and a top speed of 330 km/h, promises to revolutionize the automotive market
O Alpine alpine glow has returned to the spotlight as the main attraction of the 2024 Paris Motor Show. Originally revealed as a concept in 2022, the model now returns with a revolutionary “Hy6” twin-turbo V6 engine, promising to take hydrogen combustion technology to a new level.
The highlight of this supercar is not just its futuristic looks or aggressive aerodynamics, but the engine developed from scratch to run on hydrogen. With more than 740 horsepower, the Alpenglow becomes a beast on the track, challenging expectations and bringing the dream of a more sustainable automotive future closer.
The return of a hydrogen-powered icon
The Alpenglow’s 2022 debut was focused on showcasing an innovative vision for Alpine’s future, particularly in relation to sustainability. However, specific details of the hydrogen-powered engine have been kept under wraps. This, of course, only increased the public's curiosity.
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When the car made its first dynamic showing at the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps in 2023, it was equipped with a 340-horsepower turbo-four hydrogen engine, the so-called “Hy4”. While already impressive, it was clear that Alpine still had something bigger in the works.
The introduction of the Hy6 V6 engine at this year’s event puts Alpenglow in a completely new category. Bruno Famin, Vice President of Alpine Motorsports, commented: “With the development of this all-new Hy6 V6 engine, we are demonstrating our commitment to hydrogen research, which could herald high-performance motorsport applications."
A closer look at the Hy6 V6
The Hy6 engine is not only more powerful; it was specifically designed for hydrogen combustion, differentiating it from the Hy4, which was still based on modified gas engines. Under a glass panel at the Paris Motor Show, the Hy6 was displayed as a true masterpiece consultancy.
With a solid aluminum engine block, dry sump and cylinders arranged at a 100° angle, this engine is optimized for high revs and performance. Details such as the “super square” cylinders and the two turbochargers ensure that the power is delivered consistently. In addition, the three hydrogen tanks spread throughout the cockpit are strategically positioned to ensure balance and safety.
Hydrogen is stored at a pressure of 700 bars and injected into the combustion chamber in a controlled manner. Alpine has worked hard to optimize the combustion process, using water injection to minimize the risk of detonation and pre-ignition, common challenges in hydrogen combustion engines.
Performance and sustainability
While performance is what gets the most attention, Alpenglow also represents a major step forward in reducing carbon emissions in motorsport. Hydrogen combustion, unlike conventional gasoline-powered engines, emits only water vapor as a byproduct.
According to Famin, the sound of the Hy6 V6 engine is something that excites both drivers and spectators, maintaining the essence of traditional supercars but with a much smaller environmental footprint. “A solution to continue cultivating the passion for motorsport using a very noble V6 with remarkable specific power and a sound to thrill drivers and spectators.”
Sophisticated design and aerodynamic evolution
In addition to the mechanical innovations, the Alpenglow has received subtle design improvements that optimize aerodynamics. The addition of a central fin at the rear improves the vehicle's stability at high speeds, while side blades and the removal of parts of the body panel reduce weight, making the car even more efficient.
The Alpenglow’s futuristic styling continues to impress, with its “Specular Blue” carbon bodywork and taillights that exude an icy look. The exhaust tips, in turn, release only water vapor, reinforcing the sustainability of hydrogen combustion.
The future of clean mobility
Renault subsidiary Alpine is determined to expand the horizons of hydrogen combustion technology. Renault aims to achieve carbon neutrality across Europe by 2040 and globally by 2050, exploring not only hydrogen but also electric battery and hydrogen fuel cell technologies.
The Alpenglow, with its Hy6 V6 engine, is proof that the future of motorsport can be exciting, powerful and environmentally conscious. Alpine’s commitment to hydrogen combustion could be the way to ensure that motorsport continues to deliver thrills and speed, without sacrificing the planet.
The combination of performance and sustainability makes Alpenglow not just a promise, but a tangible reality that points to a future where hydrogen-powered sports cars are part of everyday life on the track and, who knows, on the streets.
