The Alpine A290, presented during the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans event, is the first electric car from the Dieppe-based automaker. This introduction comes as both Alpine hypercars retired due to engine failures in the endurance race. Text: Luca W. © Images: Alpine Cars ©
Alpine A290 design
Exterior
The Alpine A290 design closely mirrors the previously revealed Renault 5, sharing the same platform and design. However, the A290 incorporates additional elements to enhance its sporty appearance.
These include a lighting signature with 4 headlamps featuring X-shaped motifs (that recall the Alpine rally era), wide wings, side skirts with subtle edging, an aluminum or anodized blue roof edge, optional French flag on the C-pillar, black shark antenna, wing logos, black lacquered surrounds, a distinctive rear door line, and a rear bumper diffuser.
The front sports the Alpine name with a snowflake motif on the bumper. Aerodynamic considerations shape the air intake, side skirts, diffuser, vanes, and rear lights.
Interior
The A290 features a 3-spoke sports steering wheel in Nappa leather with aluminum buttons inspired by Formula 1. These controls manage regeneration, driving modes, overtaking, driving aids, telephone, voice assistant, and instrument display.
A driver-oriented 10.1-inch central screen and physical air-conditioning controls are present. The high center console, inspired by the A110, includes transmission controls and is upholstered in Nappa leather.
Seats provide side reinforcement for support and are made from sustainable materials, with higher trims featuring Deep Blue and Eevee Grey Nappa leather, embossed headrests, and sustainably processed leather.
What about performance?
According to Alpine, the A290 prioritizes driving pleasure, with electric propulsion (traction) enhancing sportiness and comfort. Built on the AmpR Small platform (shared with the Renault R5), it optimizes weight distribution and lowers the center of gravity.
The car offers 3 performance trims, all with a 52 kWh battery from the Renault Zoé.
Alpine A290 specs
| Trim | Engine | Top speed | 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) | Range |
| A290 GT/A290 GT Premium | 130kW (180 HP) / 285 Nm | 160 kph | 7,4 seconds | Around 380 km |
| A290 GT Performance/A290 GTS | 160 kW (220 HP) / 300 Nm | 170 kph | 6,4 seconds | Around 380 km |
Weighing 1,479 kg, the A290 GT Performance or GTS achieves 0-100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, with up to 220 HP and 300 Nm of torque, powered by the Renault Mégane E-Tech motor.
Ride and handling
The Alpine A290 includes multi-link rear suspension to enhance handling and stability, hydraulic bump stops for daily comfort, bespoke front and rear anti-roll bars, and a braking system with 4-piston Brembo calipers.
It offers 4 driving modes: Save, Normal, Sport, and Personal, allowing customization of steering, throttle response, lighting, and sound. The A290 features 26 driver assistance systems, including driver attention monitoring, adaptive cruise control with stop-go, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure functions.
Alpine A290 price
The Alpine A290 should be priced between €40,000 and €50,000, with its main selling points being design, suspension setup, and brand reputation.
Alpine A290 wallpapers
