As Renault and Alpine continue their close collaboration, the two French automakers are simultaneously unveiling the new-generation Renault 5 and the Alpine A290. Rather similar, these two cousins offer two very different worlds. The Alpine spirit and sportiness are undeniably present in the A290, the brand's first 100% electric car.
Afterits successful return to the market with the new-generation Alpine A110, the Dieppois automaker is banking on an all-new powertrain and making a major shift towards electric power. The brand remains true to its three pillars of performance, agility and lightness, and unveils a "hot hatches" in the tradition of small compact sports cars. The first model in the brand's "100% electric Dream Garage", this A290 opens up the brand to a wider audience. Muscular in appearance, its dimensions remain very compact, at less than 4m long, 1.82m wide and just 1.52m high. These dimensions, and the work done on design and aerodynamics, give it an agile spirit, typical of Alpine design.
The lighting signature is elaborate, with four headlamps featuring cross motifs, a reminder of rally cars. The look is defined by wide fenders, side skirts with fine body-colored edging, a black lacquered body surround and fenders, and a wide diffuser on the rear bumper. A French flag is available as an option on the rear pillar, while two wheel designs are available. The Iconique model, reminiscent of the rims on the Alpine A310, and the Snowflake model, more directly linked to the origins of the Alpine name. A first-edition limited series of 1,955 units will be produced, inspired by the A290_β show car, in contrasting white and black, grey or blue.
Design may be important, but the highlight of this A290 remains its electric motor, a first full-scale test for the French brand. Depending on trim level, the motor is offered in two power levels. The GT and GT Premium versions deliver 180 hp, while the GT Performance and GTS versions offer 220 hp. As the torque of an electric motor is instantaneous, 300 Nm propel the A290 without delay, enabling it to reach 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds. An Overtake control is added to the steering wheel, releasing the 220 hp for short periods.
Somefunctions are added to make up for the potential lack of sensation compared to combustion engines, notably with the creation of sound feedback accompanying driving and mechanical demands. Whether you like it or not, you may well question the value of this kind of function, as a loudspeaker cannot match the sweet sound of a combustion engine. Alpine will be able to draw conclusions from the first sales of its A290, which will help it to prepare its future models, namely a C-Crossover GT and the new A110, according to the brand's CEO Philippe Krief. To be continued.
