U.S.-bound Alpine showcases its Alpenglow Hy6 hydrogen race car

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The Alpine Alpenglow Hy6 concept is being presented here at the 2024 Paris Motor Show where I had an opportunity to get a close look. Its hydrogen-powered twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 740 bhp (544 kW) at 7,600 rpm and a top speed exceeding 330 km/h (205 mph). This engine replaces the earlier 340 bhp 4-cylinder model shown in 2022. The V6 configuration has a 100° angle and a maximum rpm of 9,000.

The Alpenglow Hy6’s engine uses hydrogen direct injection with supplementary water injection to manage combustion temperatures and reduce NOx emissions. The car features three hydrogen tanks, each storing 2.1 kg at a pressure of 700 bars. These tanks are mounted in ventilated compartments within the sidepods and behind the cockpit.

The Alpenglow Hy6 is driven by a 6-speed sequential transmission and rear-wheel drive. Aerodynamics have been optimized with a more aggressive rear wing and additional air intakes to support the new V6 engine. The rear section of the vehicle has been redesigned to showcase the hydrogen engine in a visible, glass-covered case.

The concept vehicle measures 5.20 meters (204.7 inches) long, 2.10 meters (82.7 inches) wide, and is 1.14 meters (44.9 inches) tall. It retains the all-carbon bodywork first seen in the 2022 concept but has undergone refinements for aerodynamic efficiency and performance. The rear wing is now raised with transparent materials, supported by aluminum struts. I also found out at the show that the Alpenglow Hy6 is hoisted on bespoke Michelin tires.

This prototype continues Alpine’s research into hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines, aimed at reducing emissions while not compromising on performance or lap times. The car debuted at the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans in a 4-cylinder configuration before being upgraded to the V6 Hy6 version.

Alpine has confirmed its U.S. foray in 2027, and is expected to launch a couple of electric models in the first two years.

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