The shape of things to come

Alpine has offered a first glimpse of the third-generation A110, but rather than revealing the car itself, the French marque has chosen to unveil its future icon through sculpture. Wrapped in a flowing blue veil, the sculpture captures the shape and stance of the next A110 while deliberately leaving much to the imagination. Beneath the fabric, the familiar proportions of the original Berlinette and today's A110 begin to emerge in a more muscular, contemporary form.

The sculpture is inspired by the moment a Concorde breaks through the sound barrier, using the tension of fabric caught in a sudden rush of air to suggest speed, lightness and aerodynamic flow. It also provides clues to the design language of the new car, including a V-shaped nose, distinctive dual lighting signature, pronounced wheel arches and a teardrop-shaped cabin sitting between muscular haunches.

For Alpine, the sculpture is more than a teaser. It is a designer's tool made tangible, using form, proportion and movement to capture the essence of an A110 before the final car is revealed. The sculpture will make its public debut on Alpine's stand at the Paris Motor Show from 12 October, offering the clearest hint yet of where one of France's most celebrated sports cars is heading next.

Photos © Alpine