Alpine is going electric and the company is previewing what to expect by introducing the A110 E-ternité prototype.
Set to debut at the French Formula 1 Grand Prix this weekend, the prototype celebrates the 60th anniversary of the A110 and provides a nod to the future.
Designed to match the “performance, balance and agility” of the ICE-powered model, the prototype has been equipped with a 60 kWh battery pack that uses modules sourced from the Mégane E-Tech. However, this wasn’t a straight swap as engineers had to create specific battery casings for the A110 and optimize weight distribution.
Also Read: 2022 Alpine A110 Gets Apple CarPlay And Optional Aero Ahead Of Brand’s EV Push
In regards to the latter, the prototype has four battery modules placed at the front of the coupe and another eight located out back. This gives the car a 42 / 58 weight distribution, which is nearly identical to the standard model’s 43 / 57 setup.
While the battery pack weighs 864 lbs (392 kg), the car’s overall weight has only climbed 569 lbs (258 kg) compared to the ICE variant. That’s a relatively modest gain and the battery pack enables the prototype to have a WLTP range of 261 miles (420 km).
Sticking with the performance theme, the A110 E-ternité has been outfitted with a rear-mounted electric motor that develops 239 hp (178 kW / 242 PS) and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) of torque. Both figures trail the ICE variants, so it comes as little surprise the EV is a tad slower as the dash from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) takes 4.5 seconds. The model also has a slightly less impressive top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
The changes continue elsewhere as the prototype features a unique gearbox and a revised suspension. The latter sports unique springs, a modified rear anti-roll bar, rear reinforcements, and Ohlins shock absorbers.
While Alpine could have easily called it a day there, designers wanted to address demands for a convertible variant. As a result, the prototype has been equipped with a removable roof panel that allows for an open air experience without impacting rigidity.
Furthermore, another A110 E-ternité prototype was created and outfitted with eco-friendly flax components that are as strong as carbon fiber. The material is used on the “skin of the bonnet, roof, rear window, grille, seat shells, and rear skirt.”
Moving into the cabin, the A110 E-ternité has been equipped with an “innovative multimedia system” that uses a driver’s personal tablet as the infotainment display. This is a tad peculiar, but Alpine said it results in an “always up-to-date operating system combined with the latest screen technologies.” The model has also been outfitted with a state-of-the-art audio system, which features two new rear speakers to bring the total to eight.
While the A110 E-ternité is a prototype, the company referred to the model as a “rolling laboratory” and noted Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo has previously stated “I want to electrify Alpine to preserve its name for all eternity.”
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