Alpine has offered a first glimpse of its next-generation A110 sports car, unveiling a sculpture that previews the design direction of the upcoming model. According to Chinese outlet 车质网 (Chezhiwang), the sculpture will be displayed at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, signaling the brand's commitment to an electrified future for its iconic nameplate.
The new A110 is positioned as a lightweight pure electric sports car, though Alpine has not ruled out the possibility of a combustion-engine variant. The company has confirmed that the model will be built on an 800V electrical architecture, a key enabler for fast charging and high-performance driving. One of the most distinctive features of the new A110 is its battery placement: the packs will be split between the front and rear of the vehicle to balance the center of gravity, resulting in an estimated axle load distribution of 40:60. This layout is designed to replicate the agile handling characteristics of the current petrol-powered A110, which has been praised for its nimble dynamics.
Powertrain and Performance
While full specifications for the production model have not been released, reports suggest that the new A110 will likely feature dual rear-mounted electric motors equipped with a torque vectoring system. This setup is expected to deliver strong acceleration and cornering performance, staying true to the A110's sports car heritage. There are also indications that the electric A110 could achieve a range of over 547 kilometers (about 340 miles), a figure that would allow drivers to complete three full laps of the Nürburgring Nordschleife at full pace, according to the report.
The 800V architecture is a significant upgrade, enabling faster charging times and more efficient power delivery compared to current 400V systems. This technology is becoming increasingly common in high-performance electric vehicles, and its inclusion in the A110 underscores Alpine's ambition to compete at the top end of the electric sports car market.
Possibility of a Combustion Version
Interestingly, the new A110's platform was designed from the outset with space for an internal combustion engine. The rear battery pack occupies the area where an engine could be installed, meaning that with relatively minor modifications, the platform could accommodate an engine, gearbox, fuel tank, and other components needed for a petrol-powered variant. However, Alpine has clarified that this does not guarantee a combustion version will be produced—it merely remains a theoretical possibility.
This dual-platform approach is unusual in the industry, where most automakers are committing fully to electric architectures. It suggests that Alpine is keeping its options open, potentially to hedge against market uncertainty or to cater to enthusiasts who prefer traditional powertrains. The decision could also be influenced by the slower-than-expected adoption of electric vehicles in some markets, particularly in Europe where the A110 is primarily sold.
The new A110 is expected to be a key model for Alpine as it transitions to an all-electric lineup. The brand, which is owned by Renault Group, has been expanding its portfolio with models like the A290 hot hatch and the GT X-Over crossover, but the A110 remains its halo product. The focus on lightweight construction and handling dynamics is a nod to the original A110, which gained fame in the 1970s as a rally champion.
As the automotive industry shifts toward electrification, Alpine's approach with the A110 will be closely watched. The combination of an 800V architecture, innovative battery placement, and the potential for a combustion variant makes this one of the more intriguing upcoming sports cars. With the Paris Motor Show in 2026 as the likely venue for a full reveal, enthusiasts will have to wait a bit longer to see the final production version.
