Alpine has unveiled the first official photos of the production A290, 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, before its official debut, which has now been confirmed for June. 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, width of 1,820 mm, height of 1,520 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,530 mm. 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. 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. 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. We can also expect a unique braking and
suspension setup to help distance the model from its Renault counterpart.

