Alpenglow Hy4: Alpine’s Strategic Bet on Hydrogen Combustion Unveiled

Alpine has made a leap in the hydrogen energy sector with the unveiling of the Alpenglow Hy4, a hydrogen-powered prototype that debuted at the Spa 6 Hours event.

This vehicle represents Alpine’s vision for the future of hydrogen-fuelled cars, positioning itself as a key player in the transition to sustainable mobility.

The Alpenglow Hy4 is powered by a 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, capable of delivering 250kW. This engine, originally from a Renault/Alpine internal combustion engine, has been adapted to run on hydrogen. With a maximum rpm of 7000, hydrogen is injected directly into the combustion chambers under high pressure, utilizing three strategically placed tanks. This setup ensures performance metrics comparable to traditional petrol engines, with a top speed of 270 km/h.

Alpine’s innovative approach integrates direct hydrogen injection with water injection to reduce NOx emissions, balancing power and environmental considerations. This method showcases Alpine’s commitment to achieving high performance while adhering to stringent emission standards.

The current inline four-cylinder engine is just the starting point for Alpine. The company plans to upgrade the Hy4 with a more robust V6 engine, designed specifically for hydrogen fuel. This new engine promises enhanced performance and efficiency, marking a significant step forward in hydrogen combustion technology.

Alpine’s decision to focus on hydrogen-fuelled combustion engines over hydrogen fuel-cell technologies is a strategic one. Hydrogen combustion engines offer a familiar feel and sound to traditional combustion engines and have reduced cooling requirements. This makes them particularly attractive for high-performance racing applications. Alpine’s approach could influence future regulatory changes in motorsport, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable yet powerful alternatives to petrol engines.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles are set to be legal at Le Mans from 2027, with potential adoption by Formula 1 by 2031. Alpine’s Alpenglow Hy4 positions the company at the forefront of this shift, aligning with future trends and regulatory dynamics in motorsport. By investing in hydrogen combustion technology, Alpine is preparing for a future where green racing technologies are not only viable but also mainstream.