Alpine has taken a major step forward in its hydrogen-powered innovation with the unveiling of the Alpenglow HY6 concept at the 2024 Paris Auto Show. This latest evolution, featuring a new hydrogen V6 engine, delivers double the power of its predecessor, the HY4’s four-cylinder unit. The hypercar’s refined exterior and boosted performance showcase Alpine’s vision for hydrogen combustion technology, which the brand believes could save the traditional combustion engine. Alpine’s approach echoes Toyota’s ongoing hydrogen experiments, with both brands seeking to redefine the future of sustainable motorsports. Positioned as a potential competitor in endurance racing, the Alpenglow HY6 could also see series production in the future. This announcement aligns with Alpine's plans to introduce a hydrogen supercar by the end of the decade. Twin-Turbo V6 Revs Up to 9,000 rpm with Zero EmissionsProducing an impressive 730 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, Alpenglow HY6 comes with a completely new hydrogen-powered 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. Developed over two years, it features four chain-driven overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, maximizing efficiency and performance as it revs up to a breathtaking 9,000 rpm. Constructed with a solid aluminum block and cast aluminum cylinder heads, the V6 uses a dry sump lubrication system. This configuration not only boosts its power but also helps the Alpenglow exceed speeds of 205 mph (330 km/h) with zero carbon emissions. Fueling the engine is a trio of high-pressure hydrogen tanks, holding a combined 6.3 kg (13.8 lbs) of hydrogen in gaseous form. Two tanks are mounted in the sidepods, while the third is placed behind the cockpit, each within ventilated compartments for safety. A pressure regulator reduces the hydrogen from more than 10,000 psi down to 2,900 psi before injecting it directly into the combustion chambers. The engine’s power is delivered to the rear axle through a six-speed sequential Xtrac gearbox, providing precise control at high speeds. A specialized Inconel exhaust system not only helps manage heat but also produces a distinctive sound. With a power output of 211 horsepower per liter, the hydrogen V6 is housed in a carbon-fiber LMP3 chassis that blends lightweight construction with robust racing capabilities. Rear Wing and Shark-Fin Dominate the New Exterior lookThe Alpenglow HY6 places its revolutionary hydrogen V6 engine at the center of attention, both visually and functionally. Encased in a glass-tinted housing with a subtle blue hue, the engine is proudly displayed, making it an integral part of the vehicle’s design. Drawing inspiration from the iconic A110, the rear window incorporates two transparent NACA air intakes. These intakes are functional, feeding air to the gearbox oil cooler. The cooling system is further enhanced by three sets of louvers, which help manage heat and ensure the safety of the hydrogen-powered engine. The rear wings, previously linked by a structural bridge, now float independently. This design decision not only creates a visual impression of lightness but also contributes to the overall reduction in weight, thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber. The absence of the bridge reveals the engine in full view, emphasizing the mechanical beauty of the hydrogen V6 while enhancing airflow around the engine bay. The raised rear wing, supported by aluminum struts, plays a crucial role in providing the necessary aerodynamic stability for the powerful V6 engine. Its transparent material adds to the visual lightness of the vehicle. The enlarged shark fin, emblazoned with the Alpine logo and the chemical formula for hydrogen, features a gradient from magenta to blue—symbolizing the car’s sustainable and clean hydrogen combustion. This detail, along with the louvers and air intakes, ensures that the larger engine is properly ventilated, keeping temperatures under control and preventing overheating during intense racing conditions. One of the most striking features of the rear design is the Inconel exhaust system, seamlessly integrated into the rear lights. As the hydrogen engine operates, it emits water vapor, creating a frosted effect on the transparent rear spoiler, a visual reminder of the vehicle’s zero-emissions powertrain. The wheels, with their gradient structure, complement the bespoke Michelin tires, giving the car an appearance of motion even when stationary. Futuristic Cockpit Design Integrates Interactive Driving FeaturesStarting with the elytra-shaped doors, the design ensures wide and easy access to the cockpit, allowing both driver and passenger to slide smoothly over the sidepods angled toward the center. The bucket seats, upholstered in a special light-reactive fabric, shift between metallic and blue tones depending on the light. One of the standout features is the triangular display at the front of the cockpit, a signature Alpine element that serves multiple functions. Inspired by the mountains, this display can change colors in real-time, providing visual cues for important driving data such as lateral G-forces, engine speed, and passing speeds. The dashboard continues this theme of innovation, with a magenta tubular crossbar partially concealed by a structure shaped like an aircraft wing. Crafted from a mix of lightweight performance materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, and Alcantara, the dashboard reflects the car's motorsport DNA. The carbon fiber panels and 3D-printed motifs further emphasize the attention to detail, while the magenta starter button and racing-inspired steering wheel put control at the driver's fingertips. Hydrogen-Powered Cars Could Compete at Le Mans by 2028Alpine is not merely experimenting with hydrogen technology—it has bold ambitions for motorsports, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Alpenglow HY6 concept serves as a rolling laboratory designed to test hydrogen power in competitive racing, with Alpine pushing for the introduction of a hydrogen-powered class at Le Mans by 2028. If approved, this could mark a historic shift in motorsports, placing sustainability at the forefront of endurance racing. While the immediate focus is on motorsports, Alpine’s vision extends beyond the track. The company has hinted that elements of the Alpenglow’s technology could transition to a production version, with Alpine’s chief designer stating that a road-going model has always been part of the plan. This opens up the possibility of a hydrogen-powered series production vehicle, taking some of the innovative features seen in the concept—such as its advanced powertrain and aerodynamic design—and bringing them to the consumer market. Alpine’s engineers, based in Viry-Châtillon, are already working on a production-bound supercar, which will be fully electric. However, the development of the hydrogen-powered Alpenglow is expected to influence their work, potentially allowing hydrogen technology to remain a key focus in motorsports. At the Paris Auto Show, alongside the Alpenglow concept, Alpine debuted the A110 R, a final celebration of its gas-powered A110, and the A390 Beta concept, which previews the upcoming production A390 set to launch next year. Alpine has also confirmed plans to debut a supercar in the coming years, though it remains unclear whether this model will utilize a hydrogen-fueled combustion engine or feature an all-electric drivetrain. As the brand gears up for its expansion into the US market, these developments highlight Alpine’s global ambitions, from Le Mans to the streets of America. Source: Alpine
