By Alan Baldwin

(Reuters] – Alpine sportscar brand Renault is looking to increase its international footprint, but it must first be well-established in Europe before considering expanding further afield. Laurent Rossi, chief executive of Renault said Tuesday.

Rossi, speaking to Reuters prior to the announcement by Alpine of its plans for endurance racing said that he didn’t rule out a future presence in Asia and Americas. However, he stated that this was not an option at the moment.

Renault (PA) has been absent from the U.S. after failing to make it in two other attempts. But, they have a strong presence Latin America. A Formula One team is also available from Alpine, the United States being a crucial market.

The A110 is the current brand focus, but there are three other sporty electric cars that will be available starting in 2024.

Rossi indicated that it was urgent to increase sales in Europe. Alpine sold 1200 vehicles in the first six months of 2011, mainly in France, Germany, and Britain.

“The U.S. has 50% of all the sportcar markets. For good reason, the Renault Group does not have a presence in the U.S. The Renault Group has twice left the U.S. We need to make sure that if we make a return, it’s a successful one,” he said when asked about that possibility.

“We would probably err on the side of caution because you can’t really mess up a third time. We have many tasks to complete first in order to position Alpine as a stable, graduated brand throughout Europe.

Rossi stated that Alpine will use Europe’s Renault Group dealer network to boost growth, and hopes the next generation car sales will be even better.