Alpine brand edges closer to reality

With the recent announcement of the Société des Automobiles Alpine Caterham advisory board, Renault has taken another step towards the resurrection of the famous Alpine brand. The project will be undertaken in conjunction with specialist British car-maker Caterham.

The board, which will be chaired by Renault CEO Carlos Tavares, comprises many people who originally had strong involvements with Alpine, as well as some current Renault management. It was formed to advise and assist the brand’s positioning and monitor the evolution of the upcoming Alpine model.

Board members include Bernard Darniche, who played a part in the Alpine rally team’s winning of the inaugural World Rally Championship for Manufacturers in 1973, and former high-profile rally driver Michele Mouton.

Renault board members include Philippe Klein, who is Executive Vice President, Corporate Planning, Product Planning and Programmes; Renault brand director Christian Pouillaude; Jean-Jacques Delaruwière, who is representing Renault Communications and is responsible for the advisory board’s administration, and the CEO of Société des Automobiles Alpine Caterham, Bernard Ollivier.

The board's first meeting is due in “a few weeks’ time”, after which it will meet twice a year as the new car evolves.