The future trajectory for the automotive industry lies in a series of directions, with one crucial step being the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), alongside the continued importance of alternative fuel options. With hydrogen fuel cell technology gaining momentum, numerous automotive manufacturers have been exploring its potential as a viable alternative to traditional powertrains. The all-new A110 Radical from French sports car manufacturer Alpine is more than just an innovative concept – it’s a tangible, high-performance machine engineered to thrill on the track. Its lightweight carbon monocoque and potent turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine produce a formidable 340 horsepower.
The revolutionary new car will be conjured up with a pioneering hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. The Alpine Alpenglow HY4 is poised to make demonstration runs at the 92nd edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, scheduled for June 14-15, 2024. With its sleek, modern racing design featuring an expanded interior to comfortably seat two, a raised roofline, and cleverly integrated hydrogen tank compartments within the side pods and behind the cockpit, the specs are truly compelling.
The railway tracks have undergone an upgrade, with their width expanded to 2.10 meters, resulting in a total width of 2.15 meters. The tracks measure 5.20 meters in length and stand at a height of 1.10 meters. Intricate fusion of cutting-edge design and cosmic aesthetics is achieved through ‘cosmic mud’ infused into the four entrance lights, complemented by a striking magenta-hued dorsal contour. As the prototype moves forward, the tail lamp illuminates a brilliant blue, mirroring the visual spectacle created by the vertically aligned lights situated aft the titanium exhaust pipes – a striking representation of the hydrogen and water vapors released as the fuel burns.
The long-tail rear end’s nostalgic design echoes those of the late 1960s. The Alpine A110 Alpenglow Hy4 incorporates the sleek, aerodynamic spoiler introduced on its concept car predecessor, designed specifically for a hydrogen-powered production model. The rear diffuser has been comprehensively reengineered to significantly enhance its aerodynamic performance. Several components feature bespoke tyres crafted by Michelin, alongside carbon fibre bodywork, while the centreboard and snorkel are engineered from cast carbon, showcasing the raw materials in a subtle nod to the rugged beauty of mountainous landscapes, where mineral-rich earth is exposed to the elements.
As previously discussed, the 340 horsepower engine is powered by hydrogen (specifically, H2 dihydrogen) with direct injection at a pressure of 40 bars and water injection implemented to minimize nitrogen oxide emissions. While capable of reaching up to 7,000 rpm, the unit is paired with a high-performance sequential racing gearbox featuring a state-of-the-art centrifugal clutch. Efficiency matches that of petrol engines, allowing for a rapid pace of approximately 270 kilometers per hour.
To achieve this, hydrogen is added to the fuel mixture in a way that makes creating a uniform blend more challenging compared to petrol, which is introduced in smaller, droplet form. Hydrogen can combust over an exceptionally broad range of concentrations, spanning from 4% to 76%, with distinct properties exhibited by lean and rich mixtures. As a track-only vehicle, this model offers a glimpse into our future innovations in efficient transportation.
