Alpine A290 Hot Hatch Unveiled; Brand’s First Of 7 Performance EVs

Alpine, the Renault-owned performance brand, has launched its groundbreaking debut electric vehicle, the A290. This innovative hot hatch masterfully preserves the audacious spirit of last year's Beta concept and at the same time showcases a comprehensive design overhaul that distinctly sets it apart from its foundation, the Renault 5.

Despite measuring the same length as its Renault counterpart, the A290 boasts an impressive 60mm wider track. This enhanced stance contributes to its muscular aesthetic and caters to the tastes of design aficionados and performance enthusiasts alike.

The A290's exterior is a testament to Alpine's rich motorsport heritage, featuring distinctive elements such as X-shaped motifs on the spotlights. Wider wings, deep side skirts, robust 19-inch alloy wheels, and a striking black rear diffuser further accentuate the rally-inspired silhouette.

This bold design is underpinned by an array of extensive technical refinements. The A290 introduces bespoke suspension, cutting-edge powertrain technology, high-performance brakes, specialized tyres, and unique soundscapes, all meticulously engineered to deliver what Alpine describes as a "more emotional driving experience."

In true Alpine tradition, weight reduction has been a primary focus in the A290's development. The result is a remarkably nimble electric hot hatch weighing just 1,479kg—a mere 250kg more than a Renault Clio hybrid and an impressive 126kg lighter than its benchmark rival, the Mini Cooper SE.

The A290's powertrain is equally noteworthy. It is equipped with a 52kWh battery—the largest available for the Renault 5 platform—offering an estimated range of up to 379 km. Rapid charging capabilities allow for a 15-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes at 100kW.

Four distinct trim levels will be available at launch. The entry-level GT and mid-tier GT Premium models feature a spirited 178 bhp electric motor, while the GT Performance and range-topping GTS variants boast a more powerful 215 bhp unit, matching the output of their electric hot hatch competitors.

The interior of the A290 is a fusion of technology and driver-centric design. It showcases a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display, both powered by Alpine's new Alpine Portal system. This advanced interface introduces the innovative Telemetrics program, comprising Live Data, Coaching, and Challenges features designed to enhance the driving experience and skills of A290 owners.

Currently, the Alpine A290 has been launched in the European market only. And chances of the A290 coming to India are very slim. The brand is survived in the country by just three models — Kwid, Kiger, and Triber – all of which are ICE-powered cars. Additionally, the French manufacturers is also working on introducing the next generation Duster to our country, the exact date of which is yet to be revealed.