The A424 is an LMDh prototype developed by Alpine for the WEC hypercar class from the 2024 season and beyond. It uses an Oreca chassis and is powered by a 3.4-litre turbocharged V6 engine paired with a standard hybrid system.
With the A424, Alpine is racing in two high-profile motorsport series – Formula 1 and endurance racing, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
In sim racing, this car is a part of the Le Mans Ultimate DLC Pack 2, released in September 2024. You can also drive it in the original Assetto Corsa as a paid, high-quality community mod.
Car Specifications & Key Features
Since 2023, the FIA has allowed prototypes built under two technical regulations:
- LMH (Le Mans Hypercar) allows manufacturers to build a car from the ground up.
- LMDh (Le Mans Daytona hybrid) is a more cost-effective route requiring spec chassis from several approved constructors.
The LMDh formula was introduced to control development costs and encourage broader participation. LMH cars offer more freedom, but are substantially more expensive to develop.
In the LMDh category, manufacturers must choose from one of four approved chassis suppliers:
- Dallara (used by BMW and Cadillac)
- Ligier (used by Lamborghini)
- Multimatic (used by Porsche)
- Oreca (used by Acura)
Alpine has opted for the LMDh platform and selected Oreca, which explains the visual similarities with the Acura.
Where manufacturers can innovate is in the engine and bodywork. Alpine partnered with Mecachrome, repurposing a modified version of their 3.4-litre V6 single-turbo engine, originally developed for Formula 2. The engine is combined with a standardised rear-axle hybrid system delivering up to 50 kw of electric power.
The A424 weighs 1,030 kg and delivers around 675 horsepower through its hybrid-assisted drivetrain. The hybrid system behaves as it should and starts up properly within the sim.
Handling & Performance on Track
On track, the car initially understeers on the default setup. Through the fast chicanes, it feels lazy on turn-in and displays noticeable understeer. It doesn’t always respond precisely to steering input, particularly on initial rotation.
With proper tuning, much of the understeer can be dialled out, and the car becomes more balanced. The A424 is very stable and predictable. It rides curbs well and gives no drama at all.
Braking is another critical area. Compared to LMH cars like the Ferrari 499P, the Alpine A424 feels more reluctant on initial bite and requires a longer braking zone. This more deliberate braking style is a characteristic of the LMDh configuration and could be a learning curve for some drivers.
Regarding balance of performance (BoP), the car is competitive but lacks a few tenths on most circuits relative to top LMH prototypes. Of course, this is subject to change as updates and balance patches roll out.
What makes this car exceptional is the engine sound. LMU captures the real Alpine’s acoustic signature almost perfectly. From the sharp throttle response, to the turbo whine and spool, and the deceleration pops and squeals – it’s all here and incredibly authentic.
Setup Recommendations for Optimal Performance
Unlock the full potential of your Alpine with Coach Dave Academy’s setups, professionally tuned with in-depth knowledge of Le Mans Ultimate’s latest physics to deliver optimal performance in every race.
Gain seconds in lap time with our incredible Le Mans Ultimate setups developed by professional sim racers and qualified engineers.
- Setups
- Data
- Lap Guides
Best Tracks for Alpine A424 in Le Mans Ultimate
The A424 struggles with top speed, and it’s best suited for technical circuits like Sebring or Portimao.
Alpine made its competitive debut in the 2024 WEC season. It struggled with reliability and pace consistency during most of the season. Both entries (cars #35 and #36) often finished outside the top 10. The best result was a podium at the 6 Hours of Fuji.
In the 2025 season, Alpine achieved another surprise podium at the 6 Hours of Imola with the car #36. Overall, the A424 has shown signs of improvement, but consistency and pace are still a work in progress.
How It Compares to Other Cars in the Class
Le Mans Ultimate includes 12 hypercars; anyone can find a car that matches their style. If you like the Alpine and want to explore hypercars that offer a similar driving style, check these cars:
- BMW M Hybrid V8 (LMDh). The BMW is a neutral, stable and forgiving hypercar. It is ideal for those searching for predictability and consistency across all tracks.
- Porsche 963 (LMDh). The Porsche is the most well-rounded LMDh. It’s neutral, accessible and strong across most circuits. While a touch twitchy at high speed, it works for players who want a reliable and versatile car out of the box.
- Toyota GR010 (LMH). The Toyota is the top pick among LMH cars. It offers a safer drive, particularly in low-speed corners, and the most well-rounded LMH in LMU.
Final Verdict: Is the Alpine A424 the Right Choice for You?
Alpine is a safe, planted, beginner-friendly prototype and a great choice for getting comfortable with hypercars.
| Pros | Cons |
| Stable and predictable, rides curbs well | Struggles for pace compared to LMH cars as of April 2025 BoP |
| Great engine sound | Setup work is needed to fix the natural understeer |
Wrapping Up
Overall, the Alpine A424 brings a distinctive flavour to the grid in Le Mans Ultimate. It may not be as sharp as an LMH car out of the box, but it delivers on immersion and incredible sound. With tuning, it could become a favourite for endurance racing fans.
AI Coaching that actually works
Don't get lost in the data, instantly unlock lap time using our new real-time Auto Insights coaching. Elevate your braking, apex, and exit performance in record time.
Looking for more LMU car reviews? Check out our other in-depth analyses for popular cars in the sim:
LMGT3:
- Ford Mustang LMGT3
- Porsche 911 GT3 R
- McLaren 720s LMGT3 EVO
- Chevrolet Corvette Z06 LMGT3.R
- Aston Martin Vantage LMGT3 EVO
- Ferrari 296 LMGT3
- BMW M4 LMGT3
Hypercars:
