Renault’s Alpine to focus on Europe before global expansion, Australia unclear – report

Alpine – Renault's soon-to-be-all-electric performance subsidiary – is unlikely to return to Australian shores anytime soon.

The brand's petrol-powered A110 sports car was recently pulled from the local market, following the introduction of new 'ADR 85' design regulations. Despite being offered since late 2018, just over 80 examples have been reported as sold according to VFACTS industry sales data.

Three all-new electric models – a coupe, hot hatch, and mid-size SUV (teased below) – are due to launch from 2024 onwards, however the timeline for local arrival remains unclear.

Last year the Renault Formula One team rebranded as Alpine, signalling the wider group's intention to grow the marque and create an international performance brand to replace the now-defunct Renault Sport.

However, CEO Laurent Rossi told US outlet Reuters overnight Alpine needs to develop a “solid, graduated brand in Europe” before venturing into new markets.

“At the moment there’s nothing to add, we’ll look at each model when they become available,” a spokesperson for Ateco – the Australian distributor for Renault – told Drive. “However, Alpine in the future is still a possibility [for our market].”