The Alpine A290 is gearing up for its big debut as a showy new prototype has been spied undergoing cold weather testing. 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 as well as well as 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.
Needless to say, that particular prototype
aims to build excitement for the A290 and we wouldn’t be surprised if it
appeared official teasers. While that remains to be seen, the model 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 as well as 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 as well as 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 said much about the A290
lately, but the company has previously confirmed the electric city car will
debut in mid-2024. It’ll be based on the Renault 5 and ride on the CMFB-EV
platform. The company also has also confirmed the road-going model will have
19-inch wheels wrapped in three different Michelin tires. Choices will include
the sport-focused Pilot Sport S5, the efficiency-focused Pilot Sport EV, and
the 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.
