Extra proof is mounting that French efficiency marque Alpine could also be critical about gaining a foothold within the U.S.

The most recent is Alpine’s announcement on Tuesday that it’ll enter the 2023 Pikes Peak Worldwide Hill Climb, with a specifically ready model of its A110 sports activities automobile.

The A110 is Alpine’s sole mannequin at current, and confirmed by the automaker as its final to characteristic an internal-combustion engine. Energy within the A110 usually faucets out at 296 hp however the A110 Pikes Peak racer delivers almost 500 hp from a tuned model of the sports activities automobile’s mid-mounted 1.8-liter turbo-4. One of many key modifications is a roof scoop designed to drive extra air into the engine.

There’s additionally the novel physique work designed to generate downforce within the skinny air the A110 Pikes Peak will expertise because it approaches the end line at 14,115 ft above sea stage. Alpine stated important weight-saving modifications have been additionally employed to cut back the automobile’s weight to 2,094 kilos.

2023 Alpine A110 Pikes Peak

Alpine stated it’s working with French racing staff Signatech, its present associate in endurance racing, on the Pikes Peak program. The automaker has additionally confirmed Raphaël Astier as the driving force that can pilot the automobile. He’s a profitable racing driver with wins within the 2022 FIA R-GT Cup, achieved with Alpine’s A110 Rally. He is additionally beforehand tried Pikes Peak on 4 events.

Testing of the A110 Pikes Peak is at present underway at areas within the south of France. This yr’s Pikes Peak race is scheduled for June 25.

Racing at Pikes Peak, along with continued participation in Method 1, will additional assist construct consciousness of Alpine within the U.S. Whereas the automaker hasn’t confirmed plans to enter this market, its CEO in January stated U.S. gross sales is a key aim for the model. Reviews then adopted in February that Alpine could associate with dealership group AutoNation to promote vehicles within the U.S.

All future fashions from Alpine will probably be electrical. The primary of those new Alpines will probably be a sizzling hatch dubbed the A290. It will likely be previewed subsequent week forward of its market debut in 2024.