FR: Alpine revival in the works

Alpine first started out making cars with modified Renault frames and running gear. The firm, which was bought by Renault in 1973, was eventually shut down in 1995 due to cost overruns. However, if the words of Renault Executive Vice president Bruno Ancelin is to be believed, the French firm has intentions to bring the iconic brand back. He said that the first car of the revived brand, dubbed the AS1, is currently in development. It will be a lightweight 2 seater sports car, targeted at the offerings from Audi and Porsche; after all, the project will have to be profitable if the revival is to be a success, and what better way than to tempt customers from 2 of your rival camps? This is not the first time Renault has planned to bring back the iconic marque though. As early as 2009, the firm has produced wild concepts with the Alpine badge. Their last Alpine car only exists virtually, in the form of the Renault Alpine Vision Gran Turismo.Pictures used for illustration purposes only.