Spy photographers have gotten a better look at Alpine’s electric hot hatch, ahead of its debut in mid-2024
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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.
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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.
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.
