Alpine, the French performance marque, is currently in the process of developing a hardcore version of its popular sports car, the A110. The marque recently enlisted the help of Formula 1 driver Esteban Ocon to assist in the car’s development at the iconic Nürburgring.
During a two-day stint at the Nürburgring, Ocon joined forces with Laurent Hugron, a test driver for Renault and Alpine who boasts extensive experience at the famous racetrack. Together, they put the upcoming A110 variant through its paces, pushing it to its limits and fine-tuning its performance.
According to a spy photographer who captured the action, Ocon managed to complete a lap of the Nürburgring in an impressive time of approximately 7 minutes and 18.77 seconds in the hardcore A110, which is speculated to be called the A110 RS or possibly the A110 Trophy R. This time is significantly faster than the almost eight minutes required by other A110 variants, indicating that this new version likely boasts more power and enhanced performance capabilities.
In addition to its impressive lap time, the prototype of the new A110 variant showcased several visible modifications. These include flics on the front fascia, a small stabilizing fin on the engine cover, a large rear wing with manual adjustment, and a small ducktail spoiler. The chassis also features distinct wheels and an upgraded brake package, further enhancing the car’s overall performance.
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Another notable aspect of the upcoming A110 variant is its anticipated weight. With a weight approaching 2,200 pounds, it is expected to be lighter than other A110 models, some of which already weigh as little as 2,450 pounds. This reduction in weight will undoubtedly contribute to the car’s agility and handling, allowing for an even more thrilling driving experience.
The A110, which was first introduced in 2017, quickly became a beloved mid-engine sports car in the industry. It currently features a 1.8-liter turbo-4 engine that produces up to 296 horsepower. However, the upcoming hardcore variant is rumored to be the last gas-powered car from Alpine, as the marque has confirmed that all future models will be electric. This transition towards electric powertrains aligns with the global automotive industry’s shift towards sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
As Alpine looks towards the future, they have already planned to launch a new generation of the A110 as an electric model. Therefore, it is highly likely that the A110 Trophy R will serve as a final celebration of Alpine’s gas-powered legacy.
Enthusiasts and fans of Alpine can anticipate the debut of the A110 Trophy R later this year or early next year. However, as is the case with most limited-edition vehicles, production will undoubtedly be restricted, adding to the car’s exclusivity and desirability.
In conclusion, Alpine’s upcoming hardcore A110 variant, potentially called the A110 RS or A110 Trophy R, is poised to set new performance standards for the brand. With the assistance of Formula 1 driver Esteban Ocon and an experienced test driver at the Nürburgring, Alpine is fine-tuning this version to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. While the A110 Trophy R may mark Alpine’s final gas-powered car, it paves the way for the brand’s electric future as they join the global movement towards sustainability in the automotive industry. Car enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the official debut of this limited-edition model, which promises to be a thrilling finale to Alpine’s gas-powered era.
