Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Renault A-110 revival also planned in... Mexico?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/renault-a-110-revival-also-planned-in-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/renault-a-110-revival-also-planned-in-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/renault-a-110-revival-also-planned-in-mexico/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Bulgaria, Brazil and Mexico were three of the countries licensed to build the Alpine A110 under license in the sixties and seventies. With the revival of the former Renault rally racing brand, Mexico, whose Dinalpin sold the earlier iteration, wants to do it again - but this time with no connection to the parent company. It's called Project SST-77 and it is being headed by Miguel Jimenez, with the aims of developing a "low capacity, low weight, agile, high performance" sports car.

The ultimate plan is to put a new fiberglass body designed by Alejandro Castañeda on top of a chassis being laid out by Mexican Auto Design, headquartered in the same city where Dinalpin fabricated Alpines decades ago. There's no timeline and no other details about what's going into the project, but we'll keep an eye out for any updates.

Renault A-110 revival also planned in... Mexico? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alejandro castanedaalpinealpine 110dinalpinmexican auto designmexicomiguel jimenezproject sst-77renaultsst-77Mon, 08 Apr 2013 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532275/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/renault-a-110-revival-also-planned-in-mexico/20532275/article-detail.xml 20532275 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dinalpin-sst-77-project_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dinalpin-sst-77-project.jpg <![CDATA[Renault's planned luxury sub-brand gets reconsidered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/renaults-planned-luxury-sub-brand-gets-reconsidered/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/renaults-planned-luxury-sub-brand-gets-reconsidered/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/renaults-planned-luxury-sub-brand-gets-reconsidered/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Renault believes there's enough Alpine love to restart that brand with its own model almost immediately. The launch of the Initiale Paris luxury brand it's been mulling, on the other hand, will be more restrained: a report in Autocar says that instead of launching with a first model based on the Mercedes E-Class architecture, Renault is going to introduce an Initiale Paris trim line on the new Clio and Espace. More accurately, that should be 're-introduce and aggressively market,' since Renault has used an Initiale Paris trim over the years since it introduced the concept car (pictured) in 1995, even as recently as the current-generation Laguna Coupe.

Other models will be added after the Clio and Espace, and when Renault can assess what kind of future the trim has, it will decide on the launch of a subsidiary brand. Company CEO Carlos Tavares said we shouldn't hang around waiting for a decision, though, declaring that establishing such a brand - if it even comes to that - "will be a job for at least my successor to worry about, not me."

Renault's planned luxury sub-brand gets reconsidered originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinecarlos tavaresghosninitiale parisnissanrenaultrenault-nissan alliancetavaresFri, 29 Mar 2013 08:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20518353/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/29/renaults-planned-luxury-sub-brand-gets-reconsidered/20518353/article-detail.xml 20518353 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/initialeparistrim_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/initialeparistrim.jpg <![CDATA[Alpine unveils N36 LMP2 car that will race in 24 Hours of Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/alpine-unveils-n36-lmp2-car-that-will-race-in-24-hours-of-le-man/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/alpine-unveils-n36-lmp2-car-that-will-race-in-24-hours-of-le-man/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/alpine-unveils-n36-lmp2-car-that-will-race-in-24-hours-of-le-man/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Alpine N36 LMP2 racecar - profile studio shot

This is the Alpine LMP2 competitor you'll see contesting European endurance races this year, including The 24 Hours of Le Mans in June. Parent company Renault showed off the N36 racer at its atelier in Paris, the blue and orange a switch from the yellow, black and white livery Alpine wore last time it was seen in Le Mans way back in 1978 when it won the race.

The team will be run by Signatech-Nissan and the chassis will be powered by a Nissan engine. Nelson Panciatici and Pierre Ragues will contest World Endurance Championship rounds throughout the year, they'll be joined by endurance and IndyCar veteran Tristan Gommendy for Le Mans and Paul-Loup Chatin as the team's reserve driver.

The Alpine N36 will get into its first test this week at Paul Ricard, then experience its first racing miles at the European Le Mans Series round at Silverstone on April 13. The press release below has the full scoop, the photos above have the past and present in high-res glory.

Continue reading Alpine unveils N36 LMP2 car that will race in 24 Hours of Le Mans

Alpine unveils N36 LMP2 car that will race in 24 Hours of Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mansalpineeuropean le mans seriesle manslmp2motorsportsnissanrenaultworld endurance championshipMon, 25 Mar 2013 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20515083/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/25/alpine-unveils-n36-lmp2-car-that-will-race-in-24-hours-of-le-man/20515083/article-detail.xml 20515083 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/alpinen36le-manslmp1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/alpinen36le-manslmp1.jpg <![CDATA[Renault taking Alpine endurance racing, enters 24 Hours of Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/renault-taking-alpine-endurance-racing-enters-24-hours-of-le-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/renault-taking-alpine-endurance-racing-enters-24-hours-of-le-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/renault-taking-alpine-endurance-racing-enters-24-hours-of-le-ma/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Renault isn't letting up with the return of its Alpine brand. After announcing a partnership with Caterham to bring a new Alpine to market by 2015 (now expected by 2016), the French firm has announced it is taking Alpine racing again in the European Le Mans Series this year - and that includes The 24 Hours of Le Mans.

It has been 35 years since Alpine last competed in Le Mans, when it won the race outright and dropped the mic as it left the pits, never to return. Before that, in the 11 years it campaigned in the most famous endurance race on the planet from 1963 to 1978, it took seven class wins.

Caterham won't be involved with the race team, however; that will be an effort spearheaded by the Signatech-Nissan team that has been running GT Academy winners in LMS racing. Alpine is preparing an LMP2 chassis that will get a 500-horsepower Nissan engine for this year's championship, with the first two named drivers being Nelson Panciatici (above right) and Pierre Ragues (above left). The third driver for Le Mans will be announced later this month when the racer is launched at the Le Castellet race track in southern France.

The press release below has more details, and prepare yourself now for a chant that hasn't been heard since Valéry Giscard d'Estaing was president of the republic: "Allez Alpine!"

Continue reading Renault taking Alpine endurance racing, enters 24 Hours of Le Mans

Renault taking Alpine endurance racing, enters 24 Hours of Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mansalpineendurance racingeuropean le mans seriesle manslmp2lmsmotorsportsNelson PanciaticinissanPierre RaguesrenaultsignatechSun, 10 Mar 2013 15:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20496122/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/10/renault-taking-alpine-endurance-racing-enters-24-hours-of-le-ma/20496122/article-detail.xml 20496122 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/alpinele-mans_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/alpinele-mans.jpg <![CDATA[Renault will have new Alpine ready by end of 2015]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/31/renault-will-have-new-alpine-ready-by-end-of-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/31/renault-will-have-new-alpine-ready-by-end-of-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/31/renault-will-have-new-alpine-ready-by-end-of-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We earlier reported that Renault's revival of the Alpine name would take four years. But Stephen Norman, head of marketing for Renault, says to expect the first new Alpine sometime before the end of 2015.

Norman also tells Autocar that the Alpine jointly developed with Caterham "won't be more hardcore than a Mazda MX-5." He went on to say we should expect a competitor for the Porsche Boxster and high-performance Audi TTS. "You can't betray the DNA of Alpine," Norman says. "That's a third of what the car will be."

But the executive also says its DNA is certainly French, "It must be light and look different, and have a touch of French Dash. It's not a car for dandies, though." Norman says the target buyer is either French or a Francophile.

The French-styled, Miata-like, Boxter competitor is expected to have a price tag around £50,000 and is predicted to have a 250-horsepower Renault engine.

Renault will have new Alpine ready by end of 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinealpine revivalaudi ttaudi tt competitorboxtercaterhamfrench dnamiatamx-5porsche boxster competitorrenaultstephen normanMon, 31 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20412101/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/31/renault-will-have-new-alpine-ready-by-end-of-2015/20412101/article-detail.xml 20412101 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/saac-pr-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/saac-pr-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Renault teams with Caterham to revive historic Alpine brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/renault-teams-with-caterham-to-revive-historic-alpine-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/renault-teams-with-caterham-to-revive-historic-alpine-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/renault-teams-with-caterham-to-revive-historic-alpine-brand/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Renault Classic Alpine

Back in May, Renault rolled out the bright blue Alpine A110-50 concept, suggesting an exciting revival for the historic Alpine name. Today, the automaker has announced a partnership with UK-based Caterham to build high-end sports cars at Renault's Alpine plant in Dieppe, Normandy, in France. Caterham will own a 50-percent stake in the partnership to be called the Societe des Automobiles Alpine Caterham (SAAC).

"This innovative partnership with Caterham embodies a longstanding ambition: the creation of a sports car with the Alpine DNA," said Renault Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn in a press release. It carries both opportunities for the Dieppe plant and the development of its historic know-how."

The two companies released few details of the new venture's products, but the Future Caterham website features the silhouetted outline of a swoopy coupe that very closely matches the A110-50 concept. The two brands expect to release a model each within four years and produce "several thousand vehicles a year," according to Ghosn.

At the press conference there was also Formula 1 talk. Renault no longer directly competes in the series, but does provide engines to four teams including Caterham F1. At the meeting, Caterham Chairman Tony Fernandes said, "If you look at Formula One, there's only Ferrari and McLaren, which are extremely expensive. We'll produce a car that many more people can afford with F1 technology."

Will an Alpine be sold in the States? It seems every European automaker is busy trying to offset sales declines in their traditional markets, so we'd have to say definitely maybe. Stay tuned.

Read the full press release below.

Continue reading Renault teams with Caterham to revive historic Alpine brand

Renault teams with Caterham to revive historic Alpine brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinealpine a110-50alpine a110-50 conceptcaterhamdiepperenaultrenault alpinerenault caterham partnershipMon, 05 Nov 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20370722/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/renault-teams-with-caterham-to-revive-historic-alpine-brand/20370722/article-detail.xml 20370722 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/saac-pr-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/saac-pr-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lotus could build production versions of Renault Alpine, Infiniti Emerg-E]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/lotus-could-build-production-versions-of-renault-alpine-infinit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/lotus-could-build-production-versions-of-renault-alpine-infinit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/lotus-could-build-production-versions-of-renault-alpine-infinit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



As with one of those blockbuster three-team NBA trades that actually improves the fortunes of every team involved, a report in Autocar indicates that Renault, Infiniti and Lotus are in talks that could benefit both manufacturers and enthusiasts. Renault is considering a production version of the devil-in-blue Alpine A110-50 concept but has said that it "probably needs more than the Renault-Nissan Alliance on its own." Enter Lotus, whose Evora platform could supply the running bits for the mid-engined Alpine revival.

That same Evora platform, in range-extended 414E concept form, is the basis for the Infiniti Emerg-E concept. Even though a decision hasn't been made on the Emerg-E's production, it is still being developed and the company has admitted that it "could be built in Britain." For its part, Lotus has said that it's ahead of schedule on the Evora 414E, with its 408 horsepower, 738 pound-feet of torque and 30-mile electric range. Development funds from both Renault and Infiniti could help make all three cars a closer possibility.

Lotus could build production versions of Renault Alpine, Infiniti Emerg-E originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinealpine a110-50emerg-eevoraevora 414e hybridinfinitilotusrenaultTue, 14 Aug 2012 17:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20299976/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/14/lotus-could-build-production-versions-of-renault-alpine-infinit/20299976/article-detail.xml 20299976 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/alpinelotusbuild_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/alpinelotusbuild.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 gets Alpine and Vapor special editions for 2013 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/jeep-grand-cherokee-srt8-gets-alpine-and-vapor-special-editions/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/jeep-grand-cherokee-srt8-gets-alpine-and-vapor-special-editions/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/jeep-grand-cherokee-srt8-gets-alpine-and-vapor-special-editions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Vapor

If there's any brand that loves special editions more than Porsche, it's Jeep. The automaker has officially released two new flavors of the 2013 Grand Cherokee SRT8, and both include sexy monochrome exteriors in either black or white. The Alpine edition comes dipped in Bright White paint, while the Vapor edition shown above is soaked in Brilliant Black. Both come wearing 20-inch five-spoke gloss black wheels as well as a few other matching appointments, including badges, grilles and rear light bar. Jeep says the special edition packages will cost $2,495 each on top of the machine's $60,920 base price.

The 2013 model still bows with a monstrous 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The engine is capable of pushing the 5,150-pound SUV to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 160 mph. If that's not enough to tickle your chin, Jeep says the 2013 Grand Cherokee SRT8 can click off .90g on the skid pad. Check out the full press blast as well as a quick video below.

Continue reading Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 gets Alpine and Vapor special editions for 2013 [w/video]

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 gets Alpine and Vapor special editions for 2013 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 grand cherokee srt8 alpine2013 grand cherokee srt8 vapor2013 jeep grand cherokee srt8alpinegrand cherokeejeepsrtsrt8vaporvideoWed, 01 Aug 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20290883/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/01/jeep-grand-cherokee-srt8-gets-alpine-and-vapor-special-editions/20290883/article-detail.xml 20290883 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-jeep-grand-cherokee-srt8-vapor-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-jeep-grand-cherokee-srt8-vapor-628.jpg <![CDATA[Renault's Initiale Paris luxe brand to get phased launch?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/renaults-initiale-paris-luxe-brand-to-get-phased-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/renaults-initiale-paris-luxe-brand-to-get-phased-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/renaults-initiale-paris-luxe-brand-to-get-phased-launch/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Renault Initiale Paris concept car from 1995 (pictured) became the company's Vel Satis flagship model that sold from 2002 to 2009 - although the Vel Satis did without the concept's detuned Formula One engine, a 392-horsepower, 3.5-liter Renault Sport RS6 V10, which might be why it never sold as well as desired. Renault has held on to the Initiale Paris name, though, using to denote the top trim on cars like the Laguna, Espace, Clio and even the dinky Modus supermini.

Renault doesn't have a bona fide flagship anymore, and but it has bigger plans for a replacement that just slotting a new model in. Automotive News reports that the French firm wants to expand its use of Initiale Paris, starting with an Initiale Paris line within the Renault range sporting added features and more luxury, eventually becoming its own luxury line just as Nissan has with Infiniti. It's not a short-term plan, however, with Chief Operating Officer Carlos Tavares pointing to the 25 years that it has taken Infiniti to reach its current level, so it could be the next decade before there is an Initiale Paris model range.

Intriguingly, a May report on website LeftLaneNews indicated that a Renault flagship is on the way in 2014 or 2015 and is being developed through the Renault-Nissan alliance with Daimler. Although the timeline is sketchy, the idea is bolstered by this statment made by Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn last year, "You'd be very surprised if in five or six years that Mercedes and Renault-Nissan had only cooperated on small cars." LeftLane's intel is that that "Renault will decide on whether or not to launch Initiale Paris before the end of the year," at the same time it decides the fate of Alpine.

Renault's Initiale Paris luxe brand to get phased launch? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinecarlos tavaresghosninfinitiinitiale parisnissanrenaultrenault-nissan alliancetavaresvel satisMon, 30 Jul 2012 08:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20287208/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/30/renaults-initiale-paris-luxe-brand-to-get-phased-launch/20287208/article-detail.xml 20287208 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/renaultinitialeparis_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/renaultinitialeparis.jpg <![CDATA[Renault pits new concept vs. original Alpine A110 across the Alps]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/renault-pits-new-concept-vs-original-alpine-a110-across-the-alp/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/renault-pits-new-concept-vs-original-alpine-a110-across-the-alp/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/renault-pits-new-concept-vs-original-alpine-a110-across-the-alp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Renault Alpine A110-50 Concept against classic Alpine A110

Renault has been busy having a little fun with the company's new A110-50 Concept. The automaker recently invited former rally driver Jean Ragnotti to take the futuristic machine for spin. Rangotti made a name for himself in the Renault 5 Turbo Group B by taking the gold at both the Monte Carlo Rally as well as the Rallye de France. As soon as the driver takes to an abandoned stretch of road, things take a different turn. It's not long before Ragnotti is pursued by an image of his former self behind the wheel of an original A110.

The clip narrowly avoids the pitfall of cheesiness, if for no other reason than we love an excuse to watch these two creations churn their tires in anger. There's just something about watching vintage French tin thrashing about in the Alps that makes us happy.

Of course, back here in reality, the A110-50 would make short work of its predecessor thanks to its 400-horsepower turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 and lightweight carbon fiber bodywork. Then again, the cars we loved in our youth always seem faster through the lens of history. Check out the video below to see what we mean. There's a bonus video down there with some amazing sound, too.

Continue reading Renault pits new concept vs. original Alpine A110 across the Alps

Renault pits new concept vs. original Alpine A110 across the Alps originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a110alpinealpine a110jean ragnottirenaultrenault a110renault a110-50renault a110-50 conceptThu, 05 Jul 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20272423/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/05/renault-pits-new-concept-vs-original-alpine-a110-across-the-alp/20272423/article-detail.xml 20272423 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/renault-alpine-a110-50-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/renault-alpine-a110-50-628.jpg <![CDATA[Renault Alpine A110-50 concept does its papa proud]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Renault has officially released details on its Alpine A110-50 Concept. Designed to pay homage to the original Alpine A110, the machine wears a body crafted from carbon fiber and dipped in a shade of the same iconic Alpine Blue we all know and love. Up front, designers worked in a set of half-ring yellow LED lights reminiscent of the hood-mounted fog lights found on the original. That's pretty much where the similarities end, however. Based loosely on the crushingly-sexy Renault Dezir Concept, the new machine boasts proud fender arches, a wild split-wing rear spoiler and scissor doors.

As we'd heard before, the A110-50 Concept rolls on the same chassis as the Megane Trophy, complete with adjustable Sachs dampers, 21-inch wheels and the notable absences of on-board nannies like ABS or traction control. Hefty 14-inch front brake discs are pressed by six-piston calipers, while the 13-inch discs out back make due with four-piston units.

Renault placed a 3.5-liter V6 mid-ship with a full 400 horsepower on hand. A roof mounted-intake funnels air from outside the engine bay into the machine's carbon-fiber intake. Meanwhile, a dual-clutch six-speed gearbox allows the driver the choice of disengaging the transmission via a floor-mounted clutch pedal or shifting via steering-wheel mounted paddles.

Scroll down to check out the full press release as well as a couple videos.

Continue reading Renault Alpine A110-50 concept does its papa proud

Renault Alpine A110-50 concept does its papa proud originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a110-50alpinealpine a110-50alpine a110-50 conceptcarbon fiberconceptconcept carledmegane trophymonaco grand prixrenault alpine a110-50renault alpine a110-50 conceptrenault dezirrenault dezir conceptFri, 25 May 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245135/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/20245135/article-detail.xml 20245135 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/remault-alpine-s110-50-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/remault-alpine-s110-50-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Renault confirms 400-HP Alpine concept debuting on Friday *UPDATE [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/23/renault-confirms-400-hp-alpine-concept-debuting-on-friday/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/23/renault-confirms-400-hp-alpine-concept-debuting-on-friday/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/23/renault-confirms-400-hp-alpine-concept-debuting-on-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Renault has confirmed the unveiling of an Alpine concept at this weekend's Formula One Grand Prix de Monaco, but as we get closer there are new details alongisde new questions. Just yesterday came the leaked image of a concept called the A110-50C, heavily based on the Renault DeZir concept, that could turn out to be the thing itself or pure Photoshop fancy. French press is reporting that Renault COO Carlos Tavares has confirmed that a 400-horsepower concept will appear that "could be homologated and on the road in the future," and it will take a lap of the Monaco course.

Another story in the French press has a picture of Sebastian Vettel sitting inside a vintage Alpine 110 racer - the car that all this hubbub is about, an example of which is pictured above. It was taken in mid-April for German GQ magazine at the Barcelona F1 circuit. Vettel and Tavares will supposedly be presenting the concept, but that report indicates the car is called the ZAR and suspects the first letter is for "zero emissions," the second for Alpine, the third perhaps for Renault. A report in CNET France also claims the ZAR appellation for the concept, allowing that the meaning of the acronym can only be supposition for now. True, the DeZir was an all-electric concept, so either the A110-50C/ZAR has 400 electric horsepower and there isn't any mid-mounted 3.5-liter Nissan V6, or Renault has found a way to break every single law of internal combustion... or we just don't know what's really in there.

We'll should know all come Friday at 1:00 PM local time.

* UPDATE: The leaked image (inset) is the real deal. Renault has released some teaser photos and a video, and the reveal will happen on French Yahoo! Autos on Friday at 1:01 p.m. Monaco time. Scroll down to watch the teaser vid.

Continue reading Renault confirms 400-HP Alpine concept debuting on Friday *UPDATE [w/video]

Renault confirms 400-HP Alpine concept debuting on Friday *UPDATE [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinealpine a110concept cardezirmeganemonaco grand prixrenaultrenault a110-50renault a110-50 conceptrenault a110-50crenault alpinerenault dezirrenault meganerenault zar conceptrenaultsportzarzar conceptWed, 23 May 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20243763/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/23/renault-confirms-400-hp-alpine-concept-debuting-on-friday/20243763/article-detail.xml 20243763 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/alpinea110orig_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/alpinea110orig.jpg <![CDATA[Renault Alpine A110-50 concept leaked ahead of Monaco debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-leaked-ahead-of-monaco-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-leaked-ahead-of-monaco-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-leaked-ahead-of-monaco-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If Jesus had treated Lazarus' resurrection like Renault has treated that of its Alpine brand, Lazarus would have politely requested, "Please, leave me alone." In 2008, the Alpine's return was rumored to come riding on the platform of the Nissan 370Z. In 2009 the revival was declared D.O.A along with the co-developed Nissan 200SX. In 2010 it was back on, the new Alpine to be based on the reputation-making Alpine A110 Berlinette. In January of this year there were still rumors but still no car, with scuttlebutt pegging a concept showing at this year's Paris Motor Show.

Finally, just this month the goat entrails predicted a showing of a new Alpine at the Monaco Grand Prix, which arrives in the principality this weekend. And the leaked rendering pictured above of the Renault A110-50 concept is the very Alpine purportedly to be revealed on Friday. Looking more inspired by the Renault DeZir concept (right) from two years ago, with some uneven assistance from Photoshop, all Renault needs to do is omit the two supplementary nostrils on the leading edge and tell us where to send a deposit. The built-up concept is loosely based on a Renault Megane with a tube-frame chassis, hiding a 400-horsepower V6 amidships.

Not that it will ever be made, but at least we have something to look at now and perhaps even to touch come this Friday. Or could it get made? One more false start we neglected to mention was just last year when Renault scrapped the Alpine brand again, opting to provide a new roadster for its Renaulsport brand. The car proposed for that endeavor: a production version of the DeZir. We hope to know more on Friday, so stay tuned.

Renault Alpine A110-50 concept leaked ahead of Monaco debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinealpine a110concept cardezirmeganemonaco grand prixrenaultrenault a110-50renault a110-50 conceptrenault a110-50crenault alpinerenault dezirrenault meganerenaultsportTue, 22 May 2012 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242390/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-leaked-ahead-of-monaco-debut/20242390/article-detail.xml 20242390 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/renaultalpineconcmonaco_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/renaultalpineconcmonaco.jpg <![CDATA[Renault to unveil new Alpine concept at Monaco Grand Prix?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/renault-to-unveil-new-alpine-concept-at-monaco-grand-prix/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/renault-to-unveil-new-alpine-concept-at-monaco-grand-prix/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/renault-to-unveil-new-alpine-concept-at-monaco-grand-prix/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Renault Alpine A110 in Monte Carlo Rally

Typically when an automaker wants to roll out a new car, it does so at one of a dozen or so major auto shows held throughout the calendar and around the world. But with the bulk of the show season on break for the summer, rumor has it that Renault is planning a more glamorous location to unveil its latest.

Speculation has been mounting for years that Renault was preparing to revive the Alpine nameplate with a new sports car sometime soon. And with the 50th anniversary of the legendary A110 (pictured above in the 1971 Monte Carlo Rally) coming up, the latest suggests that is exactly what the French automaker has in store for the Monaco Grand Prix, scheduled to take place in short order on the streets of Monte Carlo.

Just what the new Renault Alpine will amount to, if anything, remains to be seen, however. Some forecast that it could be based on the same platform as the GT-R from allied automaker Nissan, while others anticipate an electric sports car of some sort.

One way or another, it won't be the only Renault present for the most iconic of grands prix: eight out of the 24 F1 cars on the grid this year are powered by the same Renault RS27 engine that powered Sebastian Vettel to the last two world championships.

Renault to unveil new Alpine concept at Monaco Grand Prix? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a110alpinemonacomonaco grand prixrenaultrenault alpineMon, 14 May 2012 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235952/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/renault-to-unveil-new-alpine-concept-at-monaco-grand-prix/20235952/article-detail.xml 20235952 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/renault3132216_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/renault3132216.jpg <![CDATA[Renault planning 50th anniversary Alpine tribute concept for Paris]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/renault-planning-50th-anniversary-alpine-tribute-concept-for-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/renault-planning-50th-anniversary-alpine-tribute-concept-for-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/renault-planning-50th-anniversary-alpine-tribute-concept-for-par/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Renault Alpine A110

Love it or hate it, the automotive industry of today is not lacking for its exercises in reviving old nameplates. The trend ranges from Mini to Maybach, from Dodge Dart to Dodge Challenger. And the French are certainly not immune. Citroën revived its fabled DS moniker for a range of premium hatchbacks, and Renault - most of all - has been mulling bringing back the Alpine for years now.

Arguably just as central to Renault's performance heritage as the recently revived Gordini line, Alpine made mid-engined sportscars with Renault mechanicals starting in the 1950s and discontinued four decades later. Its most famous model, however, was the A110 (pictured above), which is now celebrating its 50th anniversary. And if a new report from Autocar is accurate, Renault has no intention of letting the occasion slip by unnoticed.

In fact, the French automaker is reportedly planning an Alpine concept car to unveil at the Paris Motor Show next fall. But the question remains whether there's any production potential with such a concept. The French are known for producing some rather intriguing show cars - sportscars in particular - that never seem to get very far from the show stand, from the GTbyCitroën to the Renault DeZir.

Whether Renault can make the business case - without the North American market, at that - to take on the sports car establishment remains to be seen, but having the Nissan product bin to raid certainly couldn't hurt.

Renault planning 50th anniversary Alpine tribute concept for Paris originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 paris auto salon2012 paris motor showa110alpineparisparis 2012paris auto salonparis motor showrenaultrenault alpinerenault alpine a110Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157644/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/26/renault-planning-50th-anniversary-alpine-tribute-concept-for-par/20157644/article-detail.xml 20157644 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/renault-alpine-a110-628-1327614810_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/renault-alpine-a110-628-1327614810.jpg <![CDATA[New Stratos DOA, neo Alpine possible?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/new-stratos-doa-neo-alpine-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/new-stratos-doa-neo-alpine-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/new-stratos-doa-neo-alpine-possible/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

New Lancia Stratos

Stick a fork in it. The New Stratos is done. Reports kicking around the web have confirmed Ferrari has put the nix on any hopes of a production run. As you may recall, the New Stratos prototype was built off of the bones of a Ferrari F430. Pininfarina supplied the vehicle's carbon fiber skin, and Ferrari CEO Luca di Montezemolo was so taken with the project that he personally put down a hot lap in the wedge. That affection was fleeting, however. The minds behind the New Stratos have reportedly confirmed Ferrari doesn't want to cooperate with any company that could build a direct competitor to its products.

Listen closely and you'll hear the sound of our hearts breaking, bit by bit. There is some good news in all this gloom, however. The group behind the New Stratos has begun talks with Renault, and the French manufacturer may be keen to let the company craft a new take on the Alpine A110 Berlinette. Game on.

New Stratos DOA, neo Alpine possible? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a110alpinealpine a110ferrarilancialancia stratosluca di montezemolonew stratosrenaultrenault alpinestratosWed, 04 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20140190/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/04/new-stratos-doa-neo-alpine-possible/20140190/article-detail.xml 20140190 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lancia-stratos-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lancia-stratos-628.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Car stereo prices set to soar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/26/report-car-stereo-prices-set-to-soar/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/26/report-car-stereo-prices-set-to-soar/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/26/report-car-stereo-prices-set-to-soar/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alpine

According to CE Outlook, the price of car stereo components may be on the rise. The report says that even before Japan suffered its earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disasters, manufacturers responsible for automotive audio equipment were already beginning to increase MSRPs. The main source of that surge came from steeper prices for metals like aluminum and copper, which are used in heat sinks and connectors. Rockford Fosgate and JL Audio both increased their prices by March 1 of this year after the cost of materials increased six to eight percent. Manufactures say they expect another increase of similar severity by the end of 2011.

Meanwhile, the tragedy in Japan has delayed or stopped business completely at several suppliers responsible for building car audio components. CE Outlook reports that Alpine has already announced that a number of its suppliers have suffered substantial damage. That damage may lead to delays or additional price increases as manufacturers scramble to find interim replacements.

[Source: CE Outlook]

Report: Car stereo prices set to soar originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinecar audiocar audio pricescar stereo pricesjapanese earthquakejl audiorockford fosgateSat, 26 Mar 2011 11:07:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19891756/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/26/report-car-stereo-prices-set-to-soar/19891756/article-detail.xml 19891756 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/alpine-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/alpine-630.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Alpine coming back... again... for real]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/21/rumormill-alpine-coming-back-again-for-real/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/21/rumormill-alpine-coming-back-again-for-real/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/21/rumormill-alpine-coming-back-again-for-real/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2006 Renault Nepta Concept

Autocar reports that the suits at Renault are keeping the dream of a true successor to the Alpine alive and well. The pub quotes Laurens van den Acker, the new vice-president of corporate design for Renault, as saying that he believes there's room for an affordable sports car in the company's lineup. There have been several attempts to re-fire the Alpine furnace over the past few years, but each have been cancelled due to various reasons. The 2006 Nepta Concept, pictured above, was one such stillborn attempt.

But Autocar says that a new take on an Alpine is back on the table and that the newest project takes plenty of cues from the A110 Berlinette. The fiberglass-bodied coupe helped make the Alpine name famous with its various rally escapades in the early '70s.

As promising as all of this sounds, van den Acker admits that it's going to be an uphill battle to make a strong enough business case for a low-buck sports car to make anyone else at his company take notice. Still, hoping never hurts, no matter how many times we've been hurt in the past.

[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Alpine coming back... again... for real originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A110AlpineAlpine A110 BerlinetteAlpineA110BerlinetteBerlinetteRenaultRenault AlpineRenaultAlpineTue, 21 Sep 2010 18:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19642975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/21/rumormill-alpine-coming-back-again-for-real/19642975/article-detail.xml 19642975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/nepta-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/nepta-630.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Renault to relaunch Gordini performance brand in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/report-renault-to-relaunch-gordini-performance-brand-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/report-renault-to-relaunch-gordini-performance-brand-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/report-renault-to-relaunch-gordini-performance-brand-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



While it may seem like an inopportune time to exhume a performance marque, that's just what Renault is up to, says Car. According to the U.K. glossy, Renault will relaunch the Gordini brand in Europe next year with a new Twingo variant. You may recall that it was recently revealed that the French automaker's plans to bring back its storied Alpine product line has been axed, but the decades-dormant Gordini is apparently a different matter altogether.

The new lineup of hot hatches will slot in above current Renaultsport offerings, with the aforementioned Twingo reportedly being followed by Clio and Megane Coupe models. Like the Gordini-tuned cars of yore, the new models are tipped to wear blue paint and white stripes along with various performance upgrades that will make them a likely foil to Fiat's reborn Abarth lineup.

[Source: Car]

REPORT: Renault to relaunch Gordini performance brand in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AbarthAlpinecar magazineCarMagazinecliofiatGordinihot hatchHotHatchmegane coupeMeganeCoupeRenaultrenault alpineRenaultAlpineRenaultsportTwingoFri, 06 Mar 2009 18:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1481276/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/03/06/report-renault-to-relaunch-gordini-performance-brand-in-2010/1481276/article-detail.xml 1481276 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/renault-gordinis-old-and-new_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/renault-gordinis-old-and-new.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Renault's Alpine revival is D.O.A.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/renault-alpine-revivial-is-doa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/renault-alpine-revivial-is-doa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/renault-alpine-revivial-is-doa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Just like that, it's over. Renault had been working on bringing back the Alpine nameplate with a sports car being co-developed as the Nissan 200SX. But according to Autocar, economic strain has led to the vaporization of both programs, even though development was quite far along. Rumors have been swirling for a long time about the revival of the Alpine offshoot, with a mid-mounted engine driving the rear wheels, or even sharing Nissan's 370Z platform. There seems to be no return to the planning for now, so we'll just keep gazing dreamily at past Alpines until something new pops up.

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Renault's Alpine revival is D.O.A. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinerenaultrenault alpinerenault alpine cancelledrenault alpine conceptrenault cancelledRenaultAlpineRenaultAlpineCancelledRenaultAlpineConceptRenaultCancelledThu, 26 Feb 2009 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1471405/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/02/26/renault-alpine-revivial-is-doa/1471405/article-detail.xml 1471405 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/renault_alpine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/renault_alpine.jpg -1 2