Alpine has officially confirmed its plans to launch a new supercar, expected to be an electric vehicle (EV). Currently referred to as the Future Alpine Supercar, no additional details about the vehicle have been released at this time.Development of the supercar will take place at Alpine's new state-of-the-art research and development center, named Hypertech Alpine, which is due to open later this year. The facility is located at the Viry-Châtillon Formula 1 engine base, south of Paris, and will focus on future EV technologies. Hypertech Alpine will bring together top talent to contribute to the development of ultra-high-performance vehicles and cutting-edge technologies for both Alpine and Renault Group. The facility aims to maintain the expertise of the Viry-Châtillon teams in advanced hardware and software, securing the Group’s intellectual property. New Alpine facility focuses on EV breakthroughs, MotorsportSet to open in late 2024 at Viry-Châtillon, Alpine’s upcoming Hypertech Alpine R&D facility marks a pivotal step in the company’s shift towards high-performance electric vehicles (EVs). Designed to push the boundaries of EV technology for both Alpine and Renault Group, this cutting-edge center will focus on several crucial areas to propel the brand’s future. One of the center’s key projects will be the development of the Future Alpine Supercar, a flagship electric vehicle expected to feature breakthrough battery and motor technologies. While specific details about the supercar remain under wraps, it’s known that solid-state battery technology will play a significant role. These next-generation batteries promise increased energy density and faster charging times, ensuring high-performance applications in extreme conditions, ideal for a supercar. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state technology offers better efficiency and durability, which will be critical for the high-performance segment Alpine is targeting. In addition to battery advancements, the center will collaborate with Ampere, Renault’s EV and software division, to develop next-generation electric motors. These motors are expected to offer improved power delivery, better efficiency, and lighter weight—key attributes for achieving Alpine’s ambitious EV performance goals. The facility will play a crucial role in strengthening Alpine’s motorsport program. The site will bring the World Endurance Championship (WEC), Dakar Rally, and Formula 1 divisions under one roof, facilitating synergies between the road car and motorsport teams. Meanwhile, the establishment of an F1 monitoring unit will ensure that Formula 1 innovations in aerodynamics, battery management, and drivetrain efficiency are integrated into Alpine’s EV projects. As the Viry-Châtillon site transitions from its current focus on Formula 1 engine development, resources, and personnel will be reallocated to Hypertech Alpine’s new EV focus. To ensure a smooth transition, all employees from the F1 engine project will be offered positions at the new facility, preserving Alpine’s expertise and ensuring continuity in engineering talent. This move is not just a restructuring but a strategic shift that aligns with Alpine’s long-term vision of expanding its model lineup, with seven new models planned by 2030, including electric sports cars and SUVs. Alpine to transform Viry-Châtillon site as F1 engine development ends in 2025Alpine has confirmed plans to transform its historic Viry-Châtillon facility into a high-tech center for automotive engineering by late 2024. Following a constructive consultation with employee representatives, the company will shift its focus away from Formula 1 engine development, which will end after the 2025 season. The site, known for producing F1 engines since Renault's entry into the sport in the 1970s, is being repurposed to support Alpine’s Hypertech Alpine project. While highlighting the significance of the shift, Alpine CEO Philippe Krief said, “Creating this Hypertech Alpine center is key to Alpine's development strategy and, more broadly, to the Group's innovation strategy.” “It is a turning point in the history of the Viry-Châtillon site, which will ensure the continuity of a savoir-faire and the inclusion of its rare skills in the Group's ambitious future while strengthening Alpine's position as an 'innovation garage'. “Its racing DNA remains a cornerstone of the brand. It will continue to fuel an unprecedented industrial and automotive project, thanks particularly to Hypertech Alpine.” Source: Alpine
