Renault’s performance division Alpine is exploring the possibility of bringing a hydrogen-powered V6 sports car to limited production, according to recent comments from the brand’s design chief Antony Villain.
According to media reports, Villain revealed that the Alpenglow concept, which currently features a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, was developed with a production car in mind. However, Alpine has already begun work on a larger V6 engine that would offer more than the four-cylinder’s 340 horsepower output.
When asked about the Alpenglow’s chances of making it to production, Villain responded, “Why not? Why not have that on the roads? We want to keep both ways [hydrogen ICE and EV] possible. Maybe we could do a little series of these cars for the road. That could be just right.”
The Alpenglow is an evolution of a namesake concept from 2022, and Alpine is already planning a third variant that will more closely resemble a production vehicle. However, the current iteration’s maiden test at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium was cut short due to an electrical issue, not a problem with the combustion engine itself.
As it stands, the Alpenglow uses an LMP3 chassis from Ligier, replacing the original concept’s bespoke chassis. The smaller four-cylinder engine will be swapped out later this year for the new V6.
During Renault Group’s Annual General Meeting last week, CEO Luca de Meo hinted at putting the Alpenglow into production. He stated that the A110 sports car will not be on sale for much longer, but the lineup will be renewed and expanded to seven models, including “100-percent electric and maybe, potentially, hydrogen-engine cars.”
While it’s too late for the mid-engine A110 to make its way to the United States, Alpine’s electric replacement is scheduled to arrive in 2026 as a coupe and roadster. An SUV will follow in 2027, and a four-door A310 swoopy sedan is planned for a year later.
Alpine’s exploration of hydrogen-powered sports cars represents a unique approach in an industry increasingly focused on fully electric vehicles. If the French marque can bring a limited-edition hydrogen V6 sports car to market, it could offer a compelling alternative for enthusiasts seeking a sustainable performance option.