Hybrid Alpina Models Possible in the Future: CEO
Known for building high-performance BMW models, Alpina admits that hybrids are a possibility in the future.
Alpina recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and during the event, company CEO Andy Bovensiepen said, “Hybrid technology is advancing quickly. We’re now seeing what I’d call ‘second-generation’ hybrids and EVs, like the BMW i8, and it’s becoming more interesting.”
As for when Alpina will turn to hybrid technology, it won’t be until the company finds a suitable car from BMW, meaning even the BMW i8 isn’t up to Alpina’s standards.
The company’s major concern is that its customer base likes “to drive quickly” and purchase Alpina models because they can be used daily. The problem is, Alpina believes that hybrid technology isn’t good enough for that yet, pointing that once the small battery runs out, the rest of the driving experience is disappointing.
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“If we have a good technical base of a car from BMW and we also see the sales figures taking off, then we could have a car ready within two years,” Bovensiepen added. For now, the company will continue to look for alternative fossil fuels as well as hybrid applications.
The good news is that there is likely a future where Alpina will build its own version of the BMW i8 and it could be well worth the wait.
[Source: Autocar]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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