Alpine has confirmed that its new electric hot hatch, the A290, will debut in production form on June 13, on the sidelines of the Le Mans 2024 racing event. Arriving shortly after the unveiling of the new Renault 5, which serves as its foundation, the A290 represents Alpine’s foray into the electric vehicle market, as well as its new entry-level model.
Beyond last year’s A290 Beta concept, Alpine has already treated us to the first photos of the road-going version, though it’s still playing a game of hide-and-seek under its camouflage wrap. The electric hot hatch is currently undergoing the final stages of testing in extreme weather conditions, with temperatures in the Arctic Circle dipping below -30°C / 22°F.
More: Alpine A390 Electric GT Crossover Arriving In 2025 Based On Nissan Ariya Bones
Renault’s offshoot explained that the A290 is making its debut here with its finalized bodywork. Additionally, it provided details confirming the EV’s dimensions: a length of 3,990 mm (157.1 inches), width of 1,820 mm (71.7 inches), height of 1,520 mm (59.8 inches), and a wheelbase of 2,530 mm (99.6 inches). Alpine emphasized its focus on the dynamic performance of the A290, stating it paid “particular attention to engine responsiveness, brio, driving precision, and agility”.
We also get a glimpse of the interior through a single photo that shows the flat-bottom, three-spoke sports steering wheel with a dedicated ‘Drive Mode’ button, a blue RCH knob for adjusting the battery recharge rate, and a special red ‘OV’ button (for Overtake), which provides a short boost of power.
Previously, our spies had captured another production Alpine A290 prototype undergoing cold weather testing as well.
More: This Is What The Alpine A290 Will Look Like Without Camo
Photos Alpine
While spy photographers snapped a handful of different hot hatches, one prototype stood apart from the others as it sported a unique wrap that blends camouflage with colorful graphics. As you can see, it also had “01” badging along with messages saying “A290 Prototype,” A New Track Rise Above Yourself,” and “You’ll see me soon.” The model also sported an #AlpineGoesElectric hashtag, encouraging people to promote it online.
The electric hatch follows in the footsteps of last year’s concept, as it sports familiar headlights and fog lights with X-shaped accents. They’re joined by a toned-down front bumper that features vertical air curtains along with partially enclosed lower intake with a geometric pattern.
The changes continue further back as well can see larger side mirrors and hidden rear door handles. They’re joined by sporty side skirts, pronounced fender flares, and distinctive wheels that closely echo the ones found on the concept.
The rear end is noticeably more tame as the production model has a restrained spoiler and a far less aggressive bumper. We can also get a glimpse of vertical taillights and a modest diffuser.
While the exterior stays close to the concept, the cabin is a radical departure. As you can see, the road-going model has a flat-bottom steering wheel and heavily bolstered sport seats that appear to combine fabric with leather. They’re joined by ribbed door panels as well as slender air vents and what appears to be a row of physical climate controls. Some photos also suggest the car has a freestanding display, but it’s unfortunately covered in the close-up shot.
Alpine hasn’t disclosed any new details about the A290 lately, but the company has previously confirmed that the electric city car will be based on the upcoming Renault 5 EV and ride on the CMFB-EV platform
It had also said that the production model will boast 19-inch wheels, each adorned with a selection of Michelin tires. Drivers will have the option to choose from the sport-oriented Pilot Sport S5, the efficiency-focused Pilot Sport EV, or the traction-optimized Pilot Alpin 5 winter tire.
More: Alpine A290 Electric Hot Hatch Tackles Scandinavia For Winter Testing
Alpine has been tight-lipped about performance specifications, but the concept had two front-mounted electric motors. That setup seems unlikely for production and previous reports have suggested the model could have a single motor producing up to 268 hp (200 kW / 273 PS). We can also expect a unique braking and suspension setup to help distance the model from its Renault counterpart.
Looking ahead, Alpine has ambitious plans to roll out three additional electric crossovers, including the compact-sized A390, within the next few years.
Update: This story was revised on April 2 to include new information on the A290.
