Alpine A290: An Electric Hot Hatch with Performance and Style
Alpine, the Renault-owned brand, has officially entered the electric era with the launch of their new hot hatch, the A290. This debut electric vehicle stays true to Alpine’s spirit of performance, agility, and lightness. Based on last year’s Beta concept, the A290 features a design makeover that sets it apart from the Renault 5 upon which it is based. The wider wings, deep side skirts, chunky 19-inch alloy wheels, and black rear diffuser give it a rally-inspired look that emphasizes its sporting capabilities.
Not only does the A290 have an extreme design, but it also comes with extensive technical modifications to enhance the driving experience. Alpine has made significant changes to the suspension, powertrain tech, brakes, tires, and sound to create a more emotional driving experience. According to Alpine CEO Philippe Krief, the A290 is a “stand-alone development” designed to remind drivers of the A110, Alpine’s sports coupe.
One of the key focuses of the A290’s development has been weight-saving. Despite being an electric hot hatch, it weighs only 1479kg, making it significantly lighter than its competitors. The A290 features a bespoke rear multi-link suspension with hydraulic bump-stops and anti-roll bars for excellent comfort and top-of-the-range handling. It also boasts larger Brembo brake discs and a braking system that offers a natural transition between the by-wire system and regenerative brakes.
Powering the A290 is a 52kWh battery, the largest offered by Renault for the Renault 5. It provides a range of up to 236 miles and can charge at 100kW, allowing for a 15-80% top-up in approximately 30 minutes. The A290 will be available in four trim levels, with different power outputs ranging from 178bhp to 215bhp.
Alpine has also focused on creating a unique driving experience for A290 owners. Instead of replicating the noise of an internal combustion engine, Alpine collaborated with acousticians to develop two bespoke driving sounds based on the natural harmonics of the electric motor. This attention to detail aims to create an immersive and emotional driving experience for the driver.
Inside the A290, drivers will find a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display running Alpine Portal, the brand’s new infotainment system. The system supports over-the-air updates and is backed by various Google-based apps.
Alpine has also introduced their new Telemetrics program with the A290. This program includes features such as Live Data, Coaching, and Challenges. Live Data displays information about the car’s agility, power, endurance, and lap times. Coaching helps drivers improve their skills by providing advice on braking and drifting. The Challenges mode offers various tasks based on agility, power, and endurance, unlocking new challenges as each one is achieved.
The A290 is expected to be priced from £36,000 and will be available for sale towards the end of the year, with deliveries scheduled for early 2025. When asked about the future of Alpine, CEO Philippe Krief emphasized the importance of the A290 as a big-volume product that will help establish the brand. He also expressed his confidence in the fun and exciting driving experience offered by electric cars, stating that Alpine can create a better car with EVs just as they have done with sports cars in the past.
In conclusion, the Alpine A290 represents Alpine’s entry into the electric era with style and performance. The hot hatch offers a unique design, extensive technical modifications, and a focus on weight-saving for an exceptional driving experience. With its range of trim levels and power outputs, the A290 aims to appeal to a wide range of customers. Alpine’s emphasis on creating an immersive and emotional driving experience sets the A290 apart from its competitors. The introduction of the Telemetrics program further enhances the driving experience and offers additional features for drivers to explore. Overall, the A290 marks an important step for Alpine as they establish themselves in the electric vehicle market and continue to build their brand.
