Alpine reveals ongoing 'modernisation' steps for F1 team

Alpine Interim Team Principal Bruno Famin has revealed a number of “modernisation” steps that are being undertaken by the squad at its factories.

The French manufacturer endured a difficult Formula 1 campaign this year as it slipped to sixth place in the Constructors' Championship, having ended the 2022 season in fourth.

A number of senior management oustings overshadowed its campaign, which despite its challenges, saw the squad secure two podium finishes.

Alpine currently operates in two factories with its Enstone facility focusing on the chassis side while Viry-Châtillon works on the Power Unit.

As it works to rebuild from a taxing campaign this year, Famin highlighted that measures are occurring behind the scenes to boost its in-house operations.

While Famin acknowledged that Alpine needs all personnel to maximise their efforts, he stated that improvements to infrastructure will boost its prospects.

“For me it's crucial, the culture and attitude are crucial,” Famin told select media including RacingNews365.

“For sure, it's not enough of course. I think the modernisation of both sites is under process and quite well advanced, especially in Viry.

“In Viry I think we're finalising the modernisation of the site. Two years ago, we had a brand new building to assemble the Power Unit.

“We are finalizing the modernisation of the dynos.”

CapEx boost

Famin added that the CapEx (capital expenditure) boost that teams were granted earlier this year has allowed it to invest further into its set-up.

The Frenchman also confirmed when the current round of modernising its facilities is set to be completed.

“In Enstone, a lot of work has been done also,” he said.

“We were investing and the work has started for having a new simulator, which is really a weak point today.

“Thanks to the CapEx equalization decision from the FIA, we will be able to also develop some new dynos for the car itself, for the suspension for this kind of thing.

“Then I think in the two coming years we will have finished the modernisation of both sites which will be a plus of course.

“But it will be nothing if we don't have the right people with the right mindset to operate it.”