Storied French auto brand Alpine is one step closer to reborn with the reveal of this new Vision Concept sports car. The Alpine Vision combines sensual design with outstanding agility, true to the great Alpine A110 Berlinette loved and admired by enthusiasts around the world. Alpine Vision is powered by a new 4 cylinder turbocharged engine, built by experts at Renault Sport, and its low weight will allow the car to achieve 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.5 seconds – the target for the future production model.
From its low, sleek profile, rounded bonnet, twin round headlights and sculpted sides to its pronounced rear wings that narrow towards the rear to form an elongated tail incorporating horizontal rear lights, this is a true Alpine in every respect. The marque’s arrowed ‘A’ badge is visible on the front wings and on the sides of the car, along with more subtle references to the legendary A110 and other iconic models.
The Alpine Vision’s design points to performance and style. Both inside and out, its forms and technologies are celebrated rather than concealed. Its diamond turned wheels suggest elegance and speed, while the muscular stern integrates air intakes into the rear panels to facilitate engine cooling. The elongated rear lights incorporate a distinctive X-shaped lighting signature and the design of the rear window similarly pays tribute to the iconic shape made popular by the A110 back in its day.
From the moment the door is opened, the tone is set as the aluminium door sill – inscribed with the name of the show car’s designers – invites the driver to step into a unique creation. Contrasts of materials and colours are prevalent inside the cabin. Careful detailing is juxtaposed with elements that seem to be in their raw state. Visual impressions are accompanied by tactile emotions. The balance between modernism and heritage is apparent.
In employing a blend of leather, microfibre fabrics, aluminium and carbon, the cabin exudes a contemporary feel. In a high-tech environment, features drawn from the world of motorsport sit seamlessly alongside others that harken to a bygone era. As a case in point, the backlit door opening control contrasts with the damasked black leather door panel trim, which is highlighted by white topstitching. Similarly, the bucket-style seats incorporate motorsport-inspired harness belts coupled with aluminium fastening buckles. Their quilted leather upholstery combines with a microfibre fabric that is both sensuous and technical.
In front of the driver is an instrument panel composed of a customisable TFT display underneath a carbon cowling. The two pedals and aluminium footrest feature a three-triangle pattern symbolising Alpine peaks. The three-spoke steering wheel, also in aluminium, has a thick rim trimmed in topstitched black leather. Framed by gear-shift paddles, it houses a tempting ‘Sport’ button. The main switches are enhanced by Alpine Blue backlighting that also illuminates the centre of the air vents.
The centre console rests upon a prominent, leather-trimmed aluminium structure. Taking cues from an aircraft cockpit, it appears to be floating inside the cabin. It houses a multimedia touch-screen tablet topped by a circular stopwatch. The Start button – accessible after removing a pin – is within tempting reach, holding the promise of an imminent sensory explosion.
all images courtesy of Renault