As many new cars become electric, so too do sporty models. Resistance to this seems to be slowly waning. Most of those vehemently opposed on social media have yet to experience high-potential, electric sports cars.
Once behind the wheel, the mood will definitely turn for the better. That will certainly happen with the new Alpine A290 that will join the programme during 2024. The first all-electric Alpine. Production will take place in Douai, where assembly of the new Renault 5 will also begin in a while.
Alpine is not yet giving any information about the powertrain, battery capacity, range, engine power and torque. They are keeping that a secret for some time yet. For now, the concentration is on the design.

A concept demands to be judged in a special way. The basic shape of the Renault 5 and thus the Alpine A290 is easily recognisable. Although the first sight might suggest otherwise, the fast and compact Alpine will be a five-door. In the process, bumpers, spoilers and skirts will obviously be thickened. Four headlights are part of Alpine, so they will also adorn the A290. We are not going to see the windscreen cut deep into the bonnet on the production model. It serves on this Beta version because here the driver sits in the middle of the car. Consequently, the steering wheel is also in the middle of the car. A steering wheel that resembles the control unit of a game console. Besides the buttons on the steering wheel, there are also control units on the roof. Everywhere and nowhere on or in the car are texts. 'Do not push' is humorously written on the brake pedal. And what about the names of Alpine F1 drivers Ocon and Gasly light up when the indicators are switched on.
Where does a centrally positioned driver's seat leave the rear passengers? These two seats are further back. The seating position is low and almost reclining.

The new Alpine represents the use of many new, innovative and responsible materials. The grey-blue accents on the bumpers, skirts and along the rear lights consist of a layer of recycled carbon that gives many extra options to the designers.
In the centre of the steering wheel is an illuminated, three-dimensional artwork that can best be labelled a 3D QR code where plenty of information can be read in the future. The white arcs that run in a V-shape from the bonnet to the wing mirrors are made of a reflective material. When driving in the dark, this gives a special effect when light from a lamppost shines on it.
3D effects are further obtained by processing the surface of leather with a laser to apply certain patterns. Another possibility is perforating leather and placing a different colour underneath.
It is slowly becoming clear that the new Alpine A290 is being tailored to a young target group that is new to the brand. Motorists who have no qualms about electric driving. And where lightweight construction in an Alpine ensures nimble and sporty handling, electronics in particular will take over that role in the new generation, so that the driving experience will be typical Alpine.
In the upcoming print edition of Losange Magazine, we will discuss the new Alpine A290 in more detail with an interview with interior designer Joshua Reer.