Alpine A290 GT: A New Era for Electric Hot Hatches

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The Alpine A290 GT marks a significant milestone in the automotive world, heralding Alpine's ambitious entry into the electric vehicle market. This hot hatch embodies the brand's commitment to performance, agility, and innovation, setting the stage for Alpine's future electric models.

Performance and Engineering Excellence

At the heart of the A290 GT is a powerful 217-horsepower electric motor, delivering an impressive 300 Nm of torque. This powertrain enables the A290 GT to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds, making it one of the top performers in its segment. The electric motor's instant torque is managed by the sophisticated Alpine Torque Precontrol system, which ensures optimal traction and stability under various driving conditions​.

The A290 GT is built on the AmpR Small platform, a robust foundation that enhances the vehicle's handling and performance. The use of a multi-link rear suspension, rare in this category, allows for precise wheel positioning and top-of-the-range handling. This setup, combined with bespoke front and rear anti-roll bars, provides a balanced and responsive driving experience that is both fun and controllable​.

Specifications

  • Power Output: 217 hp
  • Torque: 300 Nm
  • 0-100 km/h Acceleration: 6.4 seconds
  • Battery Capacity: Not specified, but local production starts from 2025
  • Platform: AmpR Small
  • Length: 3,990 mm
  • Width: 1,820 mm
  • Height: 1,520 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,530 mm
  • Track Width: 60 mm wider than standard platform
  • Turning Circle: 10.20 meters
  • Boot Capacity: 326 liters

Innovative Features and Design

One of the standout features of the A290 GT is its Overtake function, activated via a red button on the steering wheel. This function delivers maximum power of 220 hp, providing an exhilarating boost when needed. The regenerative braking system can be adjusted through four levels, allowing drivers to customize the driving experience to their preferences. Additionally, the launch control function ensures the best possible acceleration from a standstill, enhancing the vehicle's sporty appeal​.

Alpine has also paid special attention to the acoustic experience in the A290 GT. With the absence of natural engine noise, the brand collaborated with acousticians and musicians to create two unique Alpine Drive Sound tones. These sounds, designed to enhance the driving experience, are played through a specially designed Devialet audio system​.

The exterior design of the A290 GT is equally impressive. Its compact and muscular profile is characterized by a wide stance and aggressive styling cues, including wide wings, side skirts, and an aerodynamic body. The car's distinctive X-shaped lighting signature adds to its visual appeal, while the 19-inch wheels, developed in collaboration with Michelin, provide both aesthetic and performance benefits. The A290 GT is available with three specific tire options:

  • Michelin Pilot Sport EV: Optimized for energy efficiency and performance.
  • Michelin Pilot Sport S5: Designed for high-performance driving in various conditions.
  • Michelin Pilot Alpin 5: A winter tire offering excellent grip in cold and wet conditions​.

Safety and Comfort

The A290 GT is equipped with 26 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including driver attention monitoring, automatic emergency braking when reversing, and adaptive cruise control with a stop-go function. These features ensure a high level of safety and convenience for everyday driving. The vehicle's adaptive cruise control system and lane departure function further enhance its usability, making it a practical choice for urban environments​.

Inside, the A290 GT offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with a generous boot capacity of 326 liters. The car's dimensions, with a length of just 3.99 meters and a turning circle limited to 10.20 meters, make it highly maneuverable in tight spaces. The interior features a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials and advanced technology. The three-spoke sports steering wheel, Nappa leather upholstery, and a 10.1-inch central screen angled towards the driver contribute to a premium driving experience. The interior is both sporty and comfortable, with adjustable ambient lighting and ergonomically designed seats upholstered in eco-friendly materials​.

Alpine's Electric Future

The launch of the A290 GT is just the beginning of Alpine's electric transformation. This model will be followed by a GT C-Crossover and the new A110, further expanding Alpine's 100% electric Dream Garage. These future models will continue to embody Alpine's core values of performance, agility, and lightweight design, all while offering the latest in electric vehicle technology and connectivity​.

The Alpine A290 GT represents a bold step forward for the brand, combining cutting-edge electric propulsion with the driving dynamics and design excellence that Alpine is known for. As the automotive world moves towards electrification, the A290 GT stands out as a prime example of how performance and sustainability can go hand in hand.

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