Alpine A290, the R5 Turbo of the Electric Era

Alpine has unveiled its A290, the first car in its electrified offensive to compose its "dream garage." Specifically, it is a subcompact based on the Renault R5, a model that draws inspiration from the popular model presented in the 1970s to serve as an appeal for the population seeking an affordable zero-emission car.

If Renault aims to reach the general public with a price starting at 25,000 euros, Alpine has enthusiasts in its sights, with sportier finishes, improvements in mechanical components such as suspensions or brakes, and, primarily, more powerful engines.

Although no one thinks of the electric Renault Megane and Espace as sports cars, their engines are available with 180 or 220 horsepower, which, in a short-wheelbase package weighing less than 1,500 kilos - something uncommon for a zero-emission vehicle - is a guaranteed formula for making a fun car.

Thus, the A290 highlights the bright points of the R5: if the Renault is agile, the Alpine is an athlete, and its powerful brake calipers make accelerating on winding roads not just fun but addictive.

As if that weren't enough, in the multimedia system itself, the French manufacturer has included a telemetry section to check acceleration, lap times, and G-forces generated during acceleration. Additionally, it also features a challenge section, where tasks are set for the driver.

In addition to the main versions, GT and GTS, Alpine will launch an initial version with colors and designs limited to 1,955 units, the year the French brand was born. These will be divided between black, white, gray, or blue.

Inside, the design is more futuristic than the R5, which makes more retro nods, and the focus has been on creating a science fiction-like cabin, with sharp graphics and more buttons on the steering wheel, to simulate that of a Formula 1. It reaches 100 kilometers per hour in 6.4 seconds.

However, it is somewhat inevitable to view driving the A290 as a video game: the steering wheel buttons include one to deliver 100% power, called Overtake, which is almost like giving a nitrous oxide boost in 'Need for Speed.' As in the game, you must wait a while for the function to regenerate.

In a manner similar to the classic R5 Turbo, the Alpine features wider rear doors than its Renault version, and it is also equipped with a small 'ducktail' spoiler on the rear hatch, giving it a sportier look.

The sports car's prices start at 38,700 euros for the 180-horsepower version, not including launch discounts or purchase aid plans. For the most equipped version, with the limited Première finish, the cost rises to 46,200 euros.